Understanding Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

What Is Hypoglycemia?

Hypoglycemia means your blood sugar (glucose) is low. Blood sugar is your body’s main source of energy. When it drops too low, your body and brain may not work as well.

Low blood sugar is most common in people with diabetes, but it can also happen in people without diabetes.

What Is Considered “Low” Blood Sugar?

Below 70 mg/dL is generally considered low
Symptoms can start before numbers reach 70 mg/dL for some people

Everyone’s body is different — some people feel symptoms sooner than others.

Common Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar

Symptoms can come on quickly and may include:

Shakiness or trembling
Sweating, clamminess, or chills
Hunger and/or nausea
Feeling nervous or anxious
Fast heartbeat
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Headache
Confusion or trouble thinking clearly
Blurry vision
Slurred speech
Weakness or fatigue
Irritability or mood changes
Feeling faint, passing out, or loss of consciousness
Seizures, coma

⚠️ Severe hypoglycemia can be dangerous if not treated promptly.

What Can Cause Hypoglycemia?

Low blood sugar can happen for many reasons, including:

Skipping or delaying meals
Not eating enough carbohydrates
Taking too much insulin or diabetes medication
Drinking alcohol, especially without food
Increased physical activity without extra food
Illness, vomiting, or poor appetite
Long periods between meals

What To Do If You Think Your Blood Sugar Is Low

The 15–15 Rule

Eat or drink 15 grams of fast-acting sugar, such as:
1. 4 oz (½ cup) regular juice or soda
2. 3–4 glucose tablets
3. 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
4. Hard candies (check labels — not chocolate)
Wait 15 minutes
Recheck blood sugar (if you are able)
If still below 70 mg/dL, repeat

Once blood sugar improves, eat a balanced snack or meal with protein and carbohydrates if your next meal is more than 1 hour away.

Foods That Help Prevent Low Blood Sugar

Eating regularly and choosing balanced meals can help prevent hypoglycemia.

Helpful Choices:

Whole grains (oatmeal, whole-grain bread)
Lean protein (eggs, chicken, fish, beans, yogurt)
Healthy fats (nuts, seeds, olive oil)
Fruits paired with protein (apple + peanut butter, berries + yogurt)

💡 Avoid eating only sugary foods by themselves — they can cause blood sugar to rise and then drop again.

Tips to Reduce Your Risk

Eat meals and snacks on a regular schedule
Do not skip meals
Carry a quick sugar source with you
Check blood sugar as directed by your provider
Eat before and after exercise if recommended
Limit alcohol and never drink on an empty stomach
Take medications exactly as prescribed

When to Get Medical Help

Call your healthcare provider if:

You have frequent low blood sugar episodes
You don’t know why lows are happening
Symptoms are getting worse
You have needed help from others during a low
Symptoms occur without warning
Lows happen at night
You are unsure how to adjust meals, activity, or medications
Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.

Do not hesitate to call 911 immediately if needed.

Important Reminder

Hypoglycemia is treatable and manageable. Learning your symptoms and acting quickly can help keep you safe and feeling your best.

You can learn more from the American Diabetes Association about hypoglycemia here: https://diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/hypoglycemia-low-blood-glucose

Medical Disclaimer

This handout is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always follow guidance from your healthcare provider regarding blood sugar management, medications, and treatment plans.