You are at risk of having a low blood sugar reaction if you: Show
Check your blood sugar if you have any of these symptoms:
If your blood sugar is less than 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl):
Important: If you have frequent low blood sugars speak to your doctor. You may need changes in your medication and/or meal plan. Continue reading Quick Carbohydrate Guide for Treating Low Blood SugarsIf your blood sugar is less than 70 mg/dl, you need 15 to 30 grams of a quickly absorbed carbohydrate, like the ones listed below. Each of the following servings provides 15 grams of carbohydrate. Candies and Other Sweets
Beverages
Fruits
Other
Note: The foods listed above are easily absorbed and will raise blood sugar levels quickly. Foods that contain protein or fat – such as chocolate, candy bars, ice cream, cookies, crackers and bread – don't raise blood sugar quickly enough. UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider. Recommended reading
Carbohydrates Foods containing carbohydrates become glucose or blood sugar when digested, and controlling blood sugar is important if you have diabetes. Learn more now.
Carbohydrates and Diabetes Carb counting is a useful tool for people who have diabetes. Balancing carbohydrates and insulin helps keep your blood sugars in a healthy range. Learn more.
Counting Carbohydrates Are you counting your carbohydrate intake? Use this list of foods, each of which has been measured to about 15 carbs, to help in your efforts. Related clinics
Diabetes Clinic at Mount Zion 1600 Divisadero St., Room A530 (415) 885-3868 M-F, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Diabetes Clinic at Parnassus 400 Parnassus Ave., Suite A-550 (415) 353-2350 M-F, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Diabetes Teaching Center 400 Parnassus Ave., Suite A-550 (415) 353-2266 M-F, hours vary How can I quickly raise my blood sugar?Your doctor may tell you to have really sugary foods or drinks (like regular soda, orange juice, or cake frosting) or might give you glucose tablets or gel to take — all of these can help to raise your blood sugar level fast, which is what you need to do when it's low. Wait about 10 minutes to let the sugar work.
What happens if your blood sugar is too low?This can lead to blurred vision, difficulty concentrating, confused thinking, slurred speech, numbness, and drowsiness. If blood glucose stays low for too long, starving the brain of glucose, it may lead to seizures, coma, and very rarely death.
What is the most common cause of low blood sugar?Low blood sugar is most common among people who take insulin, but it can also occur if you're taking certain oral diabetes medications. Common causes of diabetic hypoglycemia include: Taking too much insulin or diabetes medication. Not eating enough.
How can I quickly balance my low blood sugar?For low blood sugar between 55-69 mg/dL, raise it by following the 15-15 rule: have 15 grams of carbs and check your blood sugar after 15 minutes. If it's still below your target range, have another serving. Repeat these steps until it's in your target range.
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