Diabetes And Hypoglycemia

If you have diabetes and experience low blood glucose, you may feel shaky, weak, confused, irritable, hungry, or tired. You may sweat a lot or get a headache. If you have these symptoms, check your blood glucose. If it is 70 or lower, have one of the following right away:

• 3 or 4 glucose tablets

• 1 serving of glucose gel (check the label—you’ll want the amount equal to 15 grams of carbohydrate)

• 1/2 cup (4 ounces) of any fruit juice

• 1/2 cup of a regular (not diet) soft drink

• 1 cup (8 ounces) of milk

• 5 or 6 pieces of hard candy

• 1 tablespoon of sugar or honey

After 15 minutes, check your blood glucose again. If it’s still too low, have another serving. Repeat until your blood glucose level is 70 or higher. If it will be an hour or more before your next meal, have a snack.

- Source: National Diabetes Institute Clearinghouse (USA)