You can still have low blood sugar even if you don't have diabetes. Hypoglycemia occurs when your fasting blood sugar is too low. Nondiabetic hypoglycemia refers to the condition in which a person without diabetes experiences low blood glucose (sugar). Show
Nondiabetic hypoglycemia can happen within a few hours of eating or while fasting, when you haven't eaten. The latter may be related to a more serious health condition. When it’s not caused by a reaction to medications, such as taking too much aspirin, or a condition like cancer, you may be able to manage your symptoms by changing what you eat. Verywell / Joules Garcia How Food and Fasting Affect SymptomsHypoglycemia is when your blood sugar level drops below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Symptoms of hypoglycemia include:
These symptoms occur because your body is not getting enough glucose to keep your brain functioning properly. Your brain uses glucose as its main source of energy. Glucose comes from what you eat and drink, so it is directly related to your diet. When you don’t have enough blood glucose, like if you have been fasting or have not eaten recently, your body will try to compensate by increasing insulin release. Your body will also trigger the release of hormones such as adrenaline (epinephrine) and norepinephrine to help your body raise blood sugar. When you eat, whatever you choose will have an impact on your blood sugar level. Some foods are known to raise your blood sugar level more quickly than others, and this must be taken into account when trying to manage hypoglycemia at home. The Link Between Blood Sugar and Anxiety Scheduling Meals and SnacksWhen you plan your meals and snacks, it ensures that you’re eating enough of a variety of foods to keep your blood glucose normal. This is particularly important when you experience nondiabetic hypoglycemia. Managing your blood glucose means preventing symptoms. For people who are prone to having low blood sugar, it's recommended that they eat smaller meals and snacks throughout the day. They should also eat about every three or four hours Types of FoodsThere is no such thing as "good" and "bad" food, but there are better and worse options when it comes to what and when you eat when you have nondiabetic hypoglycemia. Certain foods and lifestyle changes can help you prevent or manage hypoglycemia. What Is the Glycemic Index?The glycemic index (GI) food score is a tool you can use to understand how certain foods affect your blood sugar. Foods on the lower end of the scale are known to have a slower impact on your blood glucose, whereas foods on the higher end are known to have a much quicker effect. If you have low blood sugar, higher-GI foods may be better for you. Eating tips for managing blood sugar levels:
Cinnamon and Blood GlucoseCinnamon is a common household spice that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Research has found that cinnamon lowers fasting blood glucose levels and signals insulin release. This is true of both extracts and cinnamon sticks. Foods to AvoidFoods that cause a quick spike in blood glucose, which signals a spike in insulin and results in a drop in blood glucose, are not recommended if you have hypoglycemia. Your goal is to prevent drastic changes to your blood glucose. Other types of food to avoid include:
What Is the Glycemic Index? Quick FixThe only way to be certain if you’re experiencing hypoglycemia is to check your blood sugar level with a glucose monitor. If you are having a hypoglycemic attack, then you need to get your blood sugar balanced quickly. The American Diabetes Association recommends treating hypoglycemia with the 15-15 rule, which states that you should:
What to Eat for the 15-15 RuleThe 15 grams of carbohydrates you need to consume for the 15-15 rule can be:
If you’re experiencing recurrent hypoglycemia attacks, you should see your healthcare provider to find out why they are happening and if you need to take additional steps to prevent or manage these attacks. SummaryLow blood sugar is not as common in people without diabetes, but it's just as serious when it happens. When you experience the symptoms of hypoglycemia, follow the 15-15 rule to gradually bring your blood sugar back up. If it happens often, talk to your healthcare provider. A Word From VerywellIf you’re concerned about hypoglycemia, it’s probably time to make some changes. You can manage nondiabetic hypoglycemia with adjustments to your diet that include eating foods that can help you maintain a blood sugar level within the normal, healthy range. If you do experience low blood sugar, you can follow the 15-15 rule for a quick fix. Talk to your healthcare provider to get a better understanding of why this is happening and if you should be taking additional steps to stay healthy. Frequently Asked Questions
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