BLOOD SUGAR

SIGNS YOU HAVE LOW BLOOD SUGAR

1. What causes low blood sugar?

Low blood sugar is caused by various situations, including taking diabetes medicines, lack of enough carbs in your meals, skipping meals, or intense exercise.

2. Why is blood sugar important and what should people know?

Blood sugar is our body’s main fuel source. Blood conveys the glucose to different body parts to energize the cells. I always advise people to ensure their blood sugar levels are in check. Frequent checking helps in early detection of related dangers, such as, low or high sugar levels, for earlier treatment to prevent long term complications.

3. Why is low blood sugar dangerous if left untreated?

It can lead to serious complications, such as, seizures and coma due to lack of glucose supply to the brain for extended periods. Other complications, include slurred thinking, numbness, slurred speech, and blurred vision. Even worse situation could cause death.

 4. How does someone not know they have low blood sugar?

The signs below can tell;

  • Trembling or shaking
  • Sweating
  • Body weakness
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Hunger

5. Need 3-4 signs you have low blood sugar with a quick explanation about each one and why it indicates low blood sugar.

Shaking or trembling

Anxiety

Research suggests that hypoglycemia activates the autonomic nervous system, which may lead to trembling.

When a person experiences hypoglycemia, the body reacts by producing epinephrine and cortisol hormones to stimulate more insulin release into the blood. As a result, the body becomes anxious with symptoms, such as, sweating and faster heartbeat.

Sleep disturbances

Low blood sugar levels can result in different restless symptoms, including night sweats, confusion, and sudden waking up and crying. I always tell clients to have a snack before sleep time to reduce such symptoms for a better night.

Anastasia Filipenko
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Anastasia Filipenko is a health and wellness psychologist, dermatolist and a freelance writer. She frequently covers beauty and skincare, food trends and nutrition, health and fitness and relationships. When she's not trying out new skincare products, you'll find her taking a cycling class, doing yoga, reading in the park, or trying a new recipe.

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