Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, is common among people with diabetes. It occurs when blood sugar levels drop below 70 mg/dL, either due to excessive insulin, insufficient food intake, or increased physical activity. But did you know that blood sugar levels can drop even without diabetes? Here's what Dr Prabhat Ranjan Sinha, Senior Consultant-Internal Medicine, Aakash Healthcare, New Delhi, has to say about the condition.
What Is Reactive Hypoglycemia?
Reactive hypoglycemia refers to a drop in your blood sugar levels a few hours after eating, even when you're not diabetic, explains Dr Sinha.
“It typically sets in within about four hours following a meal, manifesting through symptoms such as anxiety, blurry vision, rapid heart rate, confusion, dizziness, irritability, headache, hunger, light-headedness, sweating, shaking, difficulty sleeping, feeling faint, extreme fatigue, and weakness,” he shares further.
Also Read: 8 Warning Signs Of Low Blood Sugar Levels
This type of hypoglycemia is one of the two types of hypoglycemia not related to diabetes; the other one is fasting hypoglycemia, which happens when you don't eat for a long time.
Unlike diabetes-related hypoglycemia, which is caused by skipping meals, reactive hypoglycemia occurs exclusively after eating.
Causes Of Reactive Hypoglycemia
According to Dr Sinha, the exact cause isn't always clear, but it is often the result of the body producing excessive insulin in response to a large, carbohydrate-rich meal.
He says, “This surplus of insulin can persist even after digestion, leading to a drop in blood glucose levels below normal.”
Other potential triggers include tumours, alcohol consumption, certain surgeries like gastric bypass or ulcer treatment, and some metabolic disorders, with a higher likelihood among overweight individuals, he adds.
What Is The Normal Range Of Blood Sugar In The Body?
In a fasting state, normal blood glucose concentrations typically fall between 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L) and 100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L).
When blood sugar drops below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L), it's considered low, and levels at or below this point can pose risks to health.
How To Treat Low Blood Sugar?
When it comes to treating reactive hypoglycemia, the primary aim is to raise blood sugar levels and identify the underlying cause to prevent future episodes, says Dr Sinha.
He adds, "For individuals with diabetes, it's crucial to learn how to self-treat low blood sugar. This may involve consuming juice, eating food, or taking glucose tablets. Some may also need to administer a shot of glucagon to raise blood sugar levels. If low blood sugar is due to an insulinoma, surgery to remove the tumour is typically recommended."
Also Read: What Are Normal Blood Sugar Levels? Know Range And Remedies To Control
In the case of non-diabetics suffering from low blood sugar levels, the doctor recommends lifestyle changes. These include:
- Eating small, regular meals and snacks every three hours.
- Opting for a balanced diet that includes protein, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and whole grains.
- Avoid foods high in sugar and refined carbs, such as white bread.
- Consuming food along with alcohol intake.
- Incorporating regular exercise into your routine.
Conclusion
Managing and preventing low blood sugar in individuals with or without diabetes is paramount to avoiding potential complications. In addition to regular monitoring, one must also pay attention to the symptoms and receive immediate medical treatment. Preventive strategies involve eating a healthy, balanced diet coupled with regular exercise and limiting alcohol consumption.