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Sugar Crash: Symptoms and Treatments for Reactive Hypoglycemia
Sugar Crash: Symptoms and Treatments for Reactive Hypoglycemia
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A Quiz for TeensAre You a Workaholic?How Well Do You Sleep?Tools & ResourcesHealth NewsFind a DietFind Healthy SnacksDrugs A-ZHealth A-ZConnectFind Your Bezzy CommunityBreast CancerInflammatory Bowel DiseasePsoriatic ArthritisMigraineMultiple SclerosisPsoriasisFollow us on social mediaHealthlineHealth ConditionsDiscoverPlanConnectSubscribeReactive Hypoglycemia: How to Spot and Treat a Sugar CrashMedically reviewed by Vincent J. Tavella DVM, MPH — By Kristeen Cherney on January 23, 2019Hypoglycemia without diabetesCausesDiagnosisSymptomsTreatmentsWhen to see a doctorTakeawayWhat is it?It’s common to associate hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, with diabetes. However, hypoglycemia, also called a sugar crash, actually isn’t exclusive to diabetes. Reactive hypoglycemia, or postprandial hypoglycemia, occurs within four hours of eating a meal. This differs from fasting hypoglycemia, or a sugar crash that happens as a result of fasting.The exact cause of reactive hypoglycemia isn’t known. Most experts think it’s related to the foods you eat and the time it takes for these foods to digest. If you have frequent sugar crashes and don’t have diabetes, it may be time to talk to your doctor about dietary changes and potential treatments.Hypoglycemia without diabetesReactive hypoglycemia is one of the two types of non-diabetes-related hypoglycemia. The other type is fasting hypoglycemia. According to the Hormone Health Network, having hypoglycemia without having diabetes is relatively rare. Most people with frequent sugar crashes either have diabetes or prediabetes.Still, it’s possible to have hypoglycemia without having diabetes. All cases of hypoglycemia are related to low blood sugar, or glucose, in the body.Glucose is procured from the foods that you eat, not just sugary foods. You can get glucose from any source of carbohydrates, including fruits, vegetables, and grains.Glucose is important because it’s your body’s main source of fuel. Your brain also depends on glucose as its primary fuel source, which explains the weakness and irritability that often occur during sugar crashes.In order to deliver glucose to the muscles and cells in your body, as well as maintain proper levels of glucose in the bloodstream, your body relies on a hormone called insulin. This hormone is made by the pancreas.Insulin issues are the hallmarks of diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, your body doesn’t have enough insulin to regulate blood glucose. You may also have insulin resistance. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas doesn’t make insulin at all.Still, insulin problems aren’t exclusive to diabetes. When you have hypoglycemia, you have too much insulin circulating in the blood. You may start feeling the effects of a sugar crash when your glucose reading reaches 70 mg/dL or lower. This is the threshold for hypoglycemia, according to the American Diabetes Association.CausesMost people with reactive hypoglycemia don’t appear to have any other underlying causes. There are some known risk factors for reactive hypoglycemia. These include:Prediabetes. This is the first stage before the full development of diabetes. During prediabetes, your body may not be making the right amount of insulin, which is contributing to your sugar crashes.Recent stomach surgery. This can make it difficult to digest food. The foods you eat may pass through the small intestine at a more rapid rate, causing subsequent sugar crashes.Enzyme deficiencies. Though rare, having a stomach enzyme deficiency can prevent your body from properly breaking down the foods you eat.DiagnosisIn most cases, reactive hypoglycemia is diagnosed based on your symptoms. It’s important to keep a food diary and make note of your symptoms so your doctor can see the timing.If severe or frequent hypoglycemia is suspected, your doctor may run blood tests. One important test is a blood glucose reading. Your doctor will prick your finger and use a blood glucose meter to get a reading. True hypoglycemia is measured at about 70 mg/dL or lower, according to the American Diabetes Association.Other tests that can help diagnose hypoglycemia include an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and a mixed meal tolerance test (MMTT). You’ll drink a glucose syrup for the OGTT or a beverage with a mix of sugar, protein, and fat for the MMTT.Your doctor will check your blood sugar before and after consuming these beverages to determine any differences.Additional testing may be needed if your doctor suspects prediabetes, diabetes, or other conditions that might be raising your insulin production. SymptomsSymptoms of reactive hypoglycemia may include:lightheadednessdizzinessshakinganxietyconfusionirritabilitysweatingweaknesssleepinesshungerfaintingThese symptoms typically go away after eating 15 grams of a carbohydrate. TreatmentsMost cases of reactive hypoglycemia don’t require medical treatment. Even if you’ve had stomach surgery or have another risk factor for sugar crashes, dietary approaches tend to be the preferred treatment measure for this condition. If you start experiencing symptoms of a sugar crash, the short-term solution is to eat 15 grams of a carbohydrate. If your symptoms don’t improve after 15 minutes, eat another 15 grams of a carbohydrate.For frequent sugar crashes, you’ll likely need to make some long-term changes to your diet. The following can help:Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Snack throughout the day, or about every three hours.Avoid high-sugar foods. These include processed foods, baked goods, white flour, and dried fruits.Eat a balanced diet. Your diet should include all the essential macronutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Plant-based foods should be No. 1 in your diet overall.Limit your alcohol intake. When you drink alcohol, be sure to have something to eat at the same time.Avoid caffeine. If possible, switch to decaffeinated coffee or herbal teas.Try to quit smoking. This should be done gradually under the guidance of a doctor.While you might see several websites for hypoglycemia “diets,” the truth is that there’s no one-size-fits-all diet to treat sugar crashes. Start by making long-term changes to your diet, such as the suggestions listed above. From there, you might find it helpful to keep a food diary to help you pinpoint any foods that could be affecting your blood sugar. When to see a doctorDietary changes can help you manage and prevent sugar crashes. However, if you’ve had surgery or are managing ulcers, you may need to see your doctor for additional treatments. You should also see your doctor if you continue to have sugar crashes despite dietary changes. Your doctor may check for diabetes or other underlying health conditions. When blood glucose isn’t controlled, it can lead to complications, including:heart diseasekidney diseasenerve damagefoot problemseye damagedental diseasestrokeThe bottom lineOnce you’ve identified reactive hypoglycemia as the cause of your sugar crashes, dietary changes are usually enough to help prevent future episodes and symptoms. However, if you continue to have frequent sugar crashes despite changes to your diet, talk to your doctor. Last medically reviewed on January 23, 2019How we reviewed this article:SourcesHistoryHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.Castro MR. (2016). Reactive hypoglycemia: What can I do?https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/expert-answers/reactive-hypoglycemia/faq-20057778Diabetes overview. (2016).https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/what-is-diabetesEckert-Norton M, et al. (2013). Non-diabetic hypoglycemia.https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/98/10/39A/2833336Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). (2018).http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/hypoglycemia-low-blood.htmlNondiabetic hypoglycemia. (2017).https://www.hormone.org/diseases-and-conditions/diabetes/non-diabetic-hypoglycemiaNutrition management of low blood sugar without diabetes (postprandial syndrome and reactive hypoglycemia). (2016).https://www.uwhealth.org/healthfacts/nutrition/396.pdfRuggiero R. (n.d.). The importance of individualizing your hypoglycemia diet.https://hypoglycemia.org/diet/Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.Current VersionJan 23, 2019Written ByKristeen Cherney, PhDEdited ByAllison TsaiMedically Reviewed ByVincent J. Tavella, DVM, MPHShare this articleMedically reviewed by Vincent J. Tavella DVM, MPH — By Kristeen Cherney on January 23, 2019related storiesDealing with HypoglycemiaDealing with HypoglycemiaCan Anorexia Cause Hypoglycemia?Relative Hypoglycemia: Everything You Need To KnowIatrogenic Hypoglycemia: What Does This Mean?Read this nextDealing with HypoglycemiaMedically reviewed by Peggy Pletcher, M.S., R.D., L.D., CDEHypoglycemia is low blood sugar. It mostly affects people with diabetes, but others may experience it, too. Learn how to identify, treat, and prevent…READ MOREDealing with HypoglycemiaMedically reviewed by Marina Basina, M.D.If you have diabetes, your concern isn’t always that your blood sugar is too high. Your blood sugar can also dip too low, a condition known as…READ MORECan Anorexia Cause Hypoglycemia?Medically reviewed by Kelly Wood, MDAnorexia can lead to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially in people with a BMI under 15. Very low blood sugar is a medical emergency.READ MORERelative Hypoglycemia: Everything You Need To KnowMedically reviewed by Angela M. Bell, MD, FACPRelative hypoglycemia happens when your body is used to high blood glucose levels, and you blood sugar drops by about a third of its average level…READ MOREIatrogenic Hypoglycemia: What Does This Mean?Medically reviewed by Marina Basina, M.D.This form of hypoglycemia may happen if you take too much medicine or don't eat enough food. Iatrogenic hypos can happen in healthcare settings or…READ MOREDrug Induced Hypoglycemia: What You Need to KnowPeople with diabetes may experience hypoglycemia due to the condition itself or its treatments. Even people who don’t have diabetes may experience…READ MORECan Exercise Cause Hypoglycemia?Medically reviewed by Angela M. Bell, MD, FACPPeople without diabetes or other medical conditions may still experience hypoglycemia during or after exercise and physical activity.READ MOREHypoglycemia and Hypothermia: How Are They Related?Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M.D., MPHHypothermia can be a sign of severely low blood sugar levels. This happens in response to very low levels of glucose in the central nervous system…READ MORERefractory Hypoglycemia: What Does This Mean?Medically reviewed by Kelly Wood, MDLong-lasting episodes of low blood sugar that do not respond to standard treatment are known as refractory hypoglycemia. Causes may can include excess…READ MOREWhipple Triad: What Does This Mean for Symptoms of Hypoglycemia?Medically reviewed by Kelly Wood, MDHypoglycemia is when your blood sugar falls below typical levels. Whipple triad refers to three criteria used to help diagnose hypoglycemia…READ MOREAbout UsContact UsPrivacy PolicyPrivacy SettingsAdvertising PolicyHealth TopicsMedical AffairsContent IntegrityNewsletters© 2024 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. See additional information. See additional information.© 2024 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. See additional information. 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Blood Sugar Crash: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Blood Sugar Crash: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
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Type 2 Diabetes
What Is a Blood Sugar Crash?
By
Kimberly Charleson
Updated on June 20, 2023
Medically reviewed by
Kelly Wood, MD
Table of Contents
View All
Table of Contents
What It Is
How It Feels
Diabetic Hypoglycemia
Non-Diabetic Hypoglycemia
Tips
A blood sugar crash refers to a sudden drop in blood sugar (glucose) levels. Known medically as hypoglycemia, a blood sugar crash can make you feel anxious, irritable, dizzy, or shaky. While anyone can experience hypoglycemia, it’s more common in people with diabetes.
This article explains what a blood sugar crash is. It discusses the different causes of blood sugar crashes, what a blood sugar crash feels like, and how to prevent and treat hypoglycemia.
VioletaStoimenova / Getty Images
What Is a Blood Sugar Crash?
A blood sugar crash, or hypoglycemia, occurs when blood glucose levels go below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). It typically occurs in response to an imbalance of insulin and glucose. Insulin, a hormone produced in the pancreas, transports glucose from the bloodstream into cells to be used for energy.
When working properly, the pancreas releases the right amount of insulin in response to sugar and carbohydrate intake. However, this process can go awry.
In some cases, consuming carbohydrates triggers the release of too much insulin, causing what is known as reactive hypoglycemia. In people with diabetes, taking insulin or medications that stimulate insulin production can also cause a blood sugar crash.
A low blood sugar level triggers the release of epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, the fight-or-flight hormone. It is what can cause the symptoms of hypoglycemia.
What Does a Blood Sugar Crash Feel Like?
Each person may react to hypoglycemia differently. The symptoms of a blood sugar crash can be mild to severe and include the following:
Shakiness
Nervousness or anxiety
Sweating, chills, and clamminess
Irritability or impatience
Confusion
Fast heartbeat (tachycardia)
Lightheadedness or dizziness
Hunger
Nausea
Color draining from the skin (pallor)
Sleepiness
Weakness or lack of energy
Blurred or impaired vision
Tingling or numbness in the lips, tongue, or cheeks
Headaches
Coordination problems, clumsiness
Nightmares or crying out during sleep
Seizures
If your blood sugar level is low and continues to drop, your brain does not get enough glucose and stops functioning as it should. This can lead to blurred vision, difficulty concentrating, confusion, slurred speech, numbness, and drowsiness.
If blood sugar stays low for too long, starving the brain of glucose, it may lead to seizures, coma, and very rarely death.
Studies have shown that people are unaware of the symptoms and seriousness of hypoglycemia. One study showed that 75% of hypoglycemia episodes detected by a continuous glucose monitor were not recognized by patients.
Diabetic Blood Sugar Crash
People with diabetes have to check their blood sugar levels often and practice healthy habits to keep their blood sugar levels in check. Unfortunately, blood sugar crashes can happen for reasons out of your control.
Causes
Low blood sugar is common in people living with type 1 diabetes, but it can also occur in people with type 2 diabetes who are taking insulin or certain medications. The average person with type 1 diabetes may experience up to two symptomatic episodes of mild low blood sugar per week.
Common causes of blood sugar crashes in people with diabetes include too much insulin or an unbalanced diet:
Medication: Since diabetes medications are taken to lower blood sugar, they may lower the blood sugar levels too much and lead to hypoglycemia. Accidentally injecting the wrong insulin type or injecting it directly into the muscle (instead of just under the skin) can also cause low blood sugar.
Not enough carbs: If someone with diabetes isn’t eating enough food or lowered their glucose intake significantly, levels will drop. Eating fewer carbohydrates than usual without reducing the amount of insulin taken can contribute to hypoglycemia.
Insulin timing: Timing insulin doses can be tricky due to the varying rate of carbs digestion from liquids or solids. Liquids are absorbed much faster than solids, so timing the insulin dose to the absorption of glucose from foods can be tricky. The composition of the meal—the amount of fat, protein, and fiber—can also affect the absorption of carbohydrates.
Exercise: The body uses up glucose faster during exercise. Too much insulin or not enough carbs combined with exercise can cause a blood sugar crash.
Why People With Diabetes Should Avoid Meal Skipping
Treatment
The main treatment for a mild sugar crash is the 15-15 rule. It helps slowly bring blood sugar levels up.
It’s never a good idea to start bingeing on sugar to raise blood sugar levels. This can backfire by causing the blood sugar to spike.
Instead, according to the 15-15 rule, you should eat 15 grams of carbohydrates to raise your blood sugar and check your blood sugar level 15 minutes after. If it’s still below 70 mg/dL, have another serving.
Food or supplements that contain 15 mg of carbohydrates include:
Glucose tabletsGel tube1/2 cup of juice or regular soda1 tablespoon of sugar, honey, or corn syrupHard candies, jellybeans, or gumdrops (check the food label for how many to consume)
Complex carbohydrates or foods that contain fats along with carbs (like chocolate) can slow the absorption of glucose and should not be used to treat an emergency low.
Keep track of your symptoms and low blood sugar episodes and tell your healthcare provider. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms or symptoms aren’t improving with treatment, you should call your healthcare provider or 911 immediately.
Prevention
Monitoring your blood sugar is the tried and true method for preventing hypoglycemia. The more a person checks blood sugar, the lower their risk of hypoglycemia. This is because you can see when blood sugar levels are dropping and treat it before it gets too low.
If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar at the following times:
Before and after mealsBefore and after exercise (or during if it’s a long or intense session)Before bedIn the middle of the night, after intense exercise
You should check your blood sugar more often if you made certain changes, such as a new insulin routine, a different work schedule, an increase in physical activity, or travel across time zones.
What Is a Continuous Glucose Monitor?
Besides a glucometer, you can also monitor your blood sugar with a continuous glucose monitor. These monitors are devices connected to the body all day, allowing quick access to information anytime you need it. These monitors help prevent surprise highs or lows in blood sugar and address them quickly.
Other things you can do to avoid a blood sugar crash if you have diabetes include:
Eating a balanced dietAvoiding sugary foods and drinks outside of mealtimesEating small portionsAvoiding restricting or cutting out full food groupsPlanning aheadKeeping your healthcare provider in the know
How to Use a Glucometer
Non-Diabetic Blood Sugar Crash
Non-diabetic blood sugar crashes are considered much rarer than diabetic blood sugar crashes. They may occur for various reasons.
Causes
There are two types of non-diabetic hypoglycemia: reactive hypoglycemia and fasting hypoglycemia. Reactive hypoglycemia, also called postprandial hypoglycemia, happens after a meal, typically a few hours later.
Possible causes of reactive hypoglycemia include:
Prediabetes or high risk for diabetes
Rare enzyme deficiencies that make it hard for your body to break down food
Dumping syndrome, which causes the body to release excess insulin after eating a carbohydrate-filled meal
On the other hand, fasting hypoglycemia can be caused by:
Certain medications, such as salicylates (including aspirin), sulfa drugs (an antibiotic), pentamidine (to treat a serious kind of pneumonia), and quinine (to treat malaria)
Alcohol, especially with binge drinking
Serious illnesses, such as those affecting the liver, heart, or kidneys
Low levels of certain hormones, such as cortisol, growth hormone, glucagon, or epinephrine
Tumors, such as a tumor in the pancreas, which produces insulin
Treatment
For people without diabetes, treatment depends on the cause of the hypoglycemia. For example, if you have a tumor that is causing your hypoglycemia, you may need surgery.
If a medicine is the cause, switching to a different medication can help. To treat your symptoms immediately, eat or drink 15 grams of carbohydrates.
A reactive hypoglycemia episode may be a sign the person has or may develop diabetes. You should discuss it with your healthcare provider to determine your next steps.
How to Stop Prediabetes From Turning Into Diabetes
Prevention
By making small tweaks to your diet, you can help avoid hypoglycemia. These changes include eating a balanced diet, eating less sugar and carbs, and eating more protein and fiber.
Another prevention tip is carrying a snack with you that can be used to raise your blood sugar. These snacks can include a handful of nuts, a hardboiled egg, or air-popped popcorn.
Tips for Keeping Blood Sugar Steady
The best way to address your personal concerns and needs is to discuss your diet, medication, and lifestyle with your healthcare team. They can diagnose any underlying conditions, adjust or change your medications, and advise you on the best ways to prevent hypoglycemia.
Tips that apply across the board to keep blood sugar stable include:
Eating a balanced dietKeeping track of foods and symptomsStaying activeReducing stressAddressing underlying conditionsTesting blood sugar consistentlyTalking about concerns with the healthcare teamKeeping hydratedPlanning mealsGetting adequate sleep
People with diabetes may face more challenges when managing blood sugar levels, but it is possible to stay healthy.
Summary
People with diabetes and those without can both experience sugar crashes, but for different reasons. Monitoring your blood sugar is your best bet at preventing a sugar crash if you have been diagnosed with diabetes. If you don’t have diabetes, talk to your healthcare provider to find out what may be causing your sugar crash and what changes you need to make.
A Word From Verywell
Some people may not experience symptoms when they have low blood sugar, which can put them at higher risk of more dangerous reactions like passing out, seizures, or coma. It's especially important for these people to continuously check their blood sugars to make sure it does not fall below 70 mg/dL and so they can treat it quickly if it does.
—
JAMIE JOHNSON, RDN, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
3 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
American Diabetes Association. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Östenson CG, Geelhoed-Duijvestijn P, Lahtela J, Weitgasser R, Markert Jensen M, Pedersen-Bjergaard U. Self-reported non-severe hypoglycaemic events in Europe. Diabet Med. 2014;31(1):92-101. doi:10.1111/dme.12261
Hormone Health Network. Non-diabetic hypoglycemia.
By Kimberly Charleson
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Reactive hypoglycemia - Wikipedia
Reactive hypoglycemia - Wikipedia
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From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Medical condition
"Sugar crash" redirects here. For the song, see SugarCrash!
Medical conditionReactive hypoglycemiaOther namesPostprandial hypoglycemia, sugar crashA typical recommendation: Half the plate is filled with high-fiber vegetables, and the rest is divided between tuna fish and a single serving of ramen noodles.SymptomsClumsiness, difficulty talking, confusion, loss of consciousness, and other symptoms related to hypoglycemiaUsual onsetWithin 4 hours of a high carbohydrate mealCausesGastric bypass surgery, over-secretion of insulinDiagnostic methodWhipple criteria, blood glucose test during spontaneous occurrence of symptoms, HbA1c blood test, 6-hour glucose tolerance testDifferential diagnosisAlimentary hypoglycemia, factitious hypoglycemia, insulin autoimmune hypoglycemia, noninsulinoma pancreatogenous hypoglycemia syndrome, insulinoma, hereditary fructose intolerancePreventionLow-carbohydrate diet, frequent small meals
Reactive hypoglycemia, postprandial hypoglycemia, or sugar crash is a term describing recurrent episodes of symptomatic hypoglycemia occurring within four hours[1] after a high carbohydrate meal in people with and without diabetes.[2] The term is not necessarily a diagnosis since it requires an evaluation to determine the cause of the hypoglycemia.[3]
The condition is related to homeostatic systems used by the body to control the blood sugar level. It is described as a sense of tiredness, lethargy, irritation, or hangover, although the effects can be lessened if a lot of physical activity is undertaken in the first few hours after food consumption.
The alleged mechanism for the feeling of a crash is correlated with an abnormally rapid rise in blood glucose after eating. This normally leads to insulin secretion (known as an insulin spike), which in turn initiates rapid glucose uptake by tissues, either storing it as glycogen or fat, or using it for energy production. The consequent fall in blood glucose is indicated as the reason for the "sugar crash".[4] Another cause might be hysteresis effect of insulin action, i.e., the effect of insulin is still prominent even if both plasma glucose and insulin levels were already low, causing a plasma glucose level eventually much lower than the baseline level.[5]
Sugar crashes are not to be confused with the after-effects of consuming large amounts of protein, which produces fatigue akin to a sugar crash, but are instead the result of the body prioritising the digestion of ingested food.[6]
The prevalence of this condition is difficult to ascertain because a number of stricter or looser definitions have been used. It is recommended that the term reactive hypoglycemia be reserved for the pattern of postprandial hypoglycemia which meets the Whipple criteria (symptoms correspond to measurably low glucose and are relieved by raising the glucose), and that the term idiopathic postprandial syndrome be used for similar patterns of symptoms where abnormally low glucose levels at the time of symptoms cannot be documented.
To assist in diagnosis, a doctor may order an HbA1c test, which measures the blood sugar average over the two or three months before the test. The more specific 6-hour glucose tolerance test can be used to chart changes in the patient's blood sugar levels before ingestion of a special glucose drink and at regular intervals during the six hours following to see if an unusual rise or drop in blood glucose levels occurs.
According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), a blood glucose level below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L) at the time of symptoms followed by relief after eating confirms a diagnosis for reactive hypoglycemia.[1]
Signs and symptoms[edit]
Symptoms vary according to individuals' hydration level and sensitivity to the rate and/or magnitude of decline of their blood glucose concentration.[citation needed]
A crash is usually felt within four hours of heavy carbohydrate consumption. Along with the symptoms of hypoglycemia, symptoms of reactive hypoglycemia include:[7][8][9]
double vision or blurry vision
unclear thinking
brain fog
insomnia
heart palpitation or fibrillation
fatigue
dizziness
light-headedness
sweating
headaches
depression
nervousness
muscle twitches
irritability
tremors
flushing
craving sweets
increased appetite
rhinitis
nausea, vomiting
panic attack
numbness/coldness in the extremities
confusion
irrationality
hot flashes
bad temper
paleness
anxiety
trouble talking
cold hands
disorientation
the need to sleep or 'crash'
The majority of these symptoms, often correlated with feelings of hunger, mimic the effect of inadequate sugar intake as the biology of a crash is similar in itself to the body's response to low blood sugar levels following periods of glucose deficiency.[10]
Causes[edit]
The NIH states: "The causes of most cases of reactive hypoglycemia are still open to debate. Some researchers suggest that certain people may be more sensitive to the body’s normal release of the hormone epinephrine, which causes many of the symptoms of hypoglycemia. Others believe deficiencies in glucagon secretion might lead to reactive hypoglycemia.[1]
Several other hormones are responsible for modulating the body's response to insulin, including cortisol, growth hormone and sex hormones. Untreated or under-treated hormonal disorders such as adrenal insufficiency (see also Addison's disease[11]) or growth hormone deficiency[12] can therefore sometimes cause insulin hypersensitivity, and reactive hypoglycemia.
Stomach bypass surgery or hereditary fructose intolerance are believed to be causes, albeit uncommon, of reactive hypoglycemia. Myo-inositol or 1D-chiro-inositol withdrawal can cause temporary reactive hypoglycemia.[citation needed]
There are several kinds of reactive hypoglycemia:[13]
Alimentary hypoglycemia (consequence of dumping syndrome; it occurs in about 15% of people who have had stomach surgery)
Hormonal hypoglycemia (e.g., hypothyroidism)
Helicobacter pylori-induced gastritis (some reports suggest this bacteria may contribute to the occurrence of reactive hypoglycemia)[14]
Congenital enzyme deficiencies (hereditary fructose intolerance, galactosemia, and leucine sensitivity of childhood)[15]
Late hypoglycemia (occult diabetes; characterized by a delay in early insulin release from pancreatic beta-cells, resulting in initial exaggeration of hyperglycemia during a glucose tolerance test)[16]
"Idiopathic reactive hypoglycemia" is a term no longer used because researchers now know the underlying causes of reactive hypoglycemia and have the tools to perform the diagnosis and the pathophysiological data explaining the mechanisms.[13]
To check if there is real hypoglycemia when symptoms occur, neither an oral glucose tolerance test nor a breakfast test is effective; instead, a hyperglucidic breakfast test or ambulatory glucose testing is the current standard.[13][17]
The body requires a relatively constant input of glucose, a sugar produced upon digestion of carbohydrates, for normal functioning. Glucagon and insulin are among the hormones that ensure a normal range of glucose in the human body.[18] Upon consumption of a meal, blood sugar normally rises, which triggers pancreatic cells to produce insulin. This hormone initiates the absorption of the just-digested blood glucose as glycogen into the liver for metabolism or storage, thereby lowering glucose levels in the blood. In contrast, the hormone glucagon is released by the pancreas as a response to lower than normal blood sugar levels. Glucagon initiates uptake of the stored glycogen in the liver into the bloodstream so as to increase glucose levels in the blood.[19]
Sporadic, high-carbohydrate snacks and meals are deemed the specific causes of sugar crashes. The “crash” one feels is due to the rapid increase and subsequent decline of blood sugar in the body system as one begins and ceases consumption of high-sugar foods. More insulin than is actually needed is produced in response to the large, rapid ingestion of sugary foods.[citation needed]
Treatment[edit]
Reactive hypoglycemia can usually be relieved by dietary changes:[20]
Avoiding or limiting sugar intake, including candy, sweet desserts, fruit juice, and drinks with added sugar.[20][21]
Eating only small amounts of starchy foods, including potatoes, pasta, breakfast cereals, and rice.[20]
Eating a variety of foods, including:
eggs, nuts, dairy products, tofu, beans, lentils, meat, poultry, fish, or other sources of protein with every meal or snack,[20]
whole-grain carbohydrates, such as eating whole wheat bread instead of white bread,[20] and
more fruits and vegetables (but not fruit juice), with 5 A Day being a recommended goal for most people.[20]
Eating more high-fiber foods, such as lentils, beans, pulses (legumes), leafy greens, and most fruits and vegetables.[20]
Other tips to prevent sugar crashes include:
Exercising regularly, as exercise increases cellular sugar uptake, which decreases excessive insulin release.[22][23]
Avoiding eating meals or snacks composed entirely of carbohydrates;[20] simultaneously ingest fats[dubious – discuss] and proteins, which have slower rates of absorption;[citation needed]
Consistently choosing longer lasting, complex carbohydrates to prevent rapid blood-sugar dips in the event that one does consume a disproportionately large amount of carbohydrates with a meal;
Monitoring any effects medication may have on symptoms.[4]
Low-carbohydrate diet and/or frequent small meals is the first treatment of this condition. The first important point is to add small meals at the middle of the morning and of the afternoon, when glycemia would start to decrease. If adequate composition of the meal is found, the fall in blood glucose is thus prevented. Patients should avoid rapidly absorbed sugars and thus avoid popular soft drinks rich in glucose or sucrose. They should also be cautious with drinks associating sugar and alcohol, mainly in the fasting state.[13]
As it is a short-term ailment, a sugar crash that was not caused by injecting too much insulin does not usually require medical intervention in most people. The most important factors to consider when addressing this issue are the composition and timing of foods.[24]
Acute (short-term) low blood sugar symptoms are best treated by consuming small amounts of sweet foods, so as to regain balance in the body's carbohydrate metabolism. Suggestions include sugary foods that are quickly digested, such as:
Dried fruit
Soft drinks
Juice
Sugar as sweets, tablets or cubes.[25]
The anti-hypertensive class of medication known as calcium channel blockers could be useful for reactive hypoglycemia as inhibition of the calcium channels on beta islet cells can help prevent an overproduction of insulin after a meal is eaten.[26][27]
Postprandial syndrome[edit]
Main article: Idiopathic postprandial syndrome
If there is no hypoglycemia at the time of the symptoms, this condition is called idiopathic postprandial syndrome. It might be an "adrenergic postprandial syndrome" — blood glucose levels are normal, but the symptoms are caused through autonomic adrenergic counterregulation.[28] Often, this syndrome is associated with emotional distress and anxious behaviour of the patient.[13] This is often seen in dysautonomic disorders as well. Dietary recommendations for reactive hypoglycemia can help to relieve symptoms of postprandial syndrome.[citation needed]
See also[edit]
Spontaneous hypoglycemia
Refeeding syndrome
References[edit]
^ a b c "Hypoglycemia." It can also be referred to as "sugar crash" or "glucose crash." National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, October 2008. http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/hypoglycemia/ Archived February 8, 2015, at the Wayback Machine Archived version at https://web.archive.org/web/20180415102429/https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/low-blood-glucose-hypoglycemia
^ "Hypos After Eating - Reactive Hypoglycemia". Retrieved September 8, 2018.
^ Service, FJ; Vella, A (June 11, 2018). "Postprandial (reactive) hypoglycemia". UpToDate. Retrieved September 8, 2018.
^ a b Hendrickson, Kirstin. "Side Effects of a Sugar Overdose". Demand Media, Inc. Retrieved November 8, 2011.
^ Wang, Guanyu (October 15, 2014). "Raison d'être of insulin resistance: the adjustable threshold hypothesis". J R Soc Interface. 11 (101): 20140892. doi:10.1098/rsif.2014.0892. PMC 4223910. PMID 25320065.
^ "The Truth about Tryptophan". WebMD.
^ "Hypoglycemia". National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Archived from the original on February 8, 2015. Retrieved November 8, 2011.
^ "Hypoglycemia". Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved November 8, 2011.
^ Simpson, Jamie. "Causes of Low Blood Sugar". Demand Media. Retrieved November 8, 2011.
^ "Diabetes". American Dietetic Association. Retrieved November 11, 2011.
^ Turner, Edward L. (November 1, 1933). "Inverted sugar tolerance curves in a case of Addison's Disease". Endocrinology. 17 (6): 699–702. doi:10.1210/endo-17-6-699.
^ Pia A, Piovesan A, Tassone F, Razzore P, Visconti G, Magro G, Cesario F, Terzolo M, Borretta G (December 2004). "A rare case of adulthood-onset growth hormone deficiency presenting as sporadic, symptomatic hypoglycemia". J. Endocrinol. Invest. 27 (11): 1060–4. doi:10.1007/BF03345310. PMID 15754739. S2CID 1411317.
^ a b c d e Brun JF, Fedou C, Mercier J (November 2000). "Postprandial reactive hypoglycemia". Diabetes Metab. 26 (5): 337–51. PMID 11119013.
^ Açbay O, Celik AF, Kadioğlu P, Göksel S, Gündoğdu S (1999). "Helicobacter pylori-induced gastritis may contribute to occurrence of postprandial symptomatic hypoglycemia". Dig. Dis. Sci. 44 (9): 1837–42. doi:10.1023/A:1018842606388. PMID 10505722. S2CID 22096584.
^ Hamdy O, Srinivasan V, Snow KJ. "Hypoglycemia". Medscape. WebMD LLC. Retrieved July 6, 2007.-Updated March 2018
^ Umesh Masharani (2007). "Postprandial Hypoglycemia (Reactive Hypoglycemia)". The Hypoglycemic states - Hypoglycemia. Armenian Medical Network.
^ Berlin I, Grimaldi A, Landault C, Cesselin F, Puech AJ (November 1994). "Suspected postprandial hypoglycemia is associated with beta-adrenergic hypersensitivity and emotional distress". J. Clin. Endocrinol. Metab. 79 (5): 1428–33. doi:10.1210/jcem.79.5.7962339. PMID 7962339.
^ "How the Body Controls Blood Sugar". Web MD Diabetes. Healthwise Incorporated. Retrieved November 8, 2011.
^ "Hypoglycemia". Hormonal and Metabolic Disorders. Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp. Retrieved November 8, 2011.
^ a b c d e f g h "Healthy Eating for Reactive Hypoglycemia". National Health Service (3rd ed.). UK. 2017. NHS Trust Docs ID: 10513 (Review date: 2020-06-11).
^ Kenrose, S. The Reactive Hypoglycemia Sourcebook, 2009. ISBN 978-0-557-07407-5"
^ Gregory, Justin M.; Muldowney, James A.; Engelhardt, Brian G.; Tyree, Regina; Marks-Shulman, Pam; Silver, Heidi J.; Donahue, E. Patrick; Edgerton, Dale S.; Winnick, Jason J. (September 2, 2019). "Aerobic exercise training improves hepatic and muscle insulin sensitivity, but reduces splanchnic glucose uptake in obese humans with type 2 diabetes". Nutrition & Diabetes. 9 (1): 25. doi:10.1038/s41387-019-0090-0. ISSN 2044-4052. PMC 6717736. PMID 31474750.
^ Gibala, Martin J; Little, Jonathan P (September 15, 2010). "Just HIT it! A time-efficient exercise strategy to improve muscle insulin sensitivity". The Journal of Physiology. 588 (Pt 18): 3341–3342. doi:10.1113/jphysiol.2010.196303. ISSN 0022-3751. PMC 2988497. PMID 20843832.
^ Collazo-Clavell, Maria. "Reactive Hypoglycemia". Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Retrieved November 11, 2011.
^ "Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) in People Without Diabetes". Diabetes Health Center. WebMD, LLC. Retrieved November 8, 2011.
^ Sanke, T; Nanjo, K; Kondo, M; Nishi, M; Moriyama, Y; Miyamura, K (October 1986). "Effect of calcium antagonists on reactive hypoglycemia associated with hyperinsulinemia". Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental. 35 (10): 924–7. doi:10.1016/0026-0495(86)90055-7. PMID 3762399.
^ Guseva, Nina; Phillips, David; Mordes, John (January 2010). "Successful Treatment of Persistent Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia with Nifedipine in an Adult Patient". Endocrine Practice. 16 (1): 107–111. doi:10.4158/EP09110.CRR. PMC 3979460. PMID 19625246.
^ "Postprandial Hypoglycemia". Retrieved November 29, 2011.
Further reading[edit]
Açbay O, Celik AF, Kadioğlu P, Göksel S, Gündoğdu S (1999). "Helicobacter pylori-induced gastritis may contribute to occurrence of postprandial symptomatic hypoglycemia". Dig. Dis. Sci. 44 (9): 1837–42. doi:10.1023/A:1018842606388. PMID 10505722. S2CID 22096584.
External links[edit]
ClassificationDICD-10: E16.1ICD-9-CM: 251.2MeSH: D007003
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Sugar crash effects and how to fix them - Sanford Health News
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Sugar crash effects and how to fix them
It’s all about balance, moderation and consistency
Written by
SHN Staff
December 19, 2022
7 min read
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Healthy Living
A sugar crash is the sudden drop in energy levels after consuming a large amount of carbohydrates, such as pasta, pizza and desserts. (Photo by Getty Images)
The sugar high is all fun and games until the resulting sugar crash affects the quality of your day.
The term refers to the sudden drop in energy levels after consuming a large amount of carbohydrates. This can include pastas and pizza but is usually more common after eating simple carbohydrates, also known as simple sugars, such as desserts.
A sugar crash often causes undesired symptoms that can disrupt productivity and energy levels throughout the day.
Find a nutrition specialist: Nutrition services at Sanford Health
Dietitians at Sanford Health suggest balance, moderation and consistency are the most effective ways to avoid these crashes. They share their knowledge on sugar crashes, how to avoid them and what to do if you get one.
What does a sugar crash feel like?
You may experience a crash after indulging in high amounts of carbohydrates, especially simple sugars such as cake and ice cream. Although the human body needs sugar, it also needs the amount of sugar to remain at a consistent level.
When the body has more sugar than it’s used to, it rapidly produces insulin in an attempt to keep the levels consistent. This causes blood glucose to decrease, which results in a sudden drop in energy levels, also known as hypoglycemia, or a sugar crash.
With this drastic drop in energy, the body can experience undesired symptoms such as:
Hunger
Irritability
Fatigue
Discomfort
Anxiety
Headaches
Difficulty concentrating
Excess sweat
Jitters
Shakiness
Dizziness
Sugar crashes generally cause us to be incredibly distracted throughout the day, which leads to a lack of productivity and concentration. Confusion, abnormal behavior, the inability to complete routine tasks and blurred vision are also common symptoms, especially for those who have diabetes. People with diabetes may experience more severe symptoms such as loss of consciousness, seizures or coma, if the crash is harsh enough, because of their increased sensitivity to inconsistent sugar levels.
How to avoid crashing
Sanford dietitians stress that the most effective way to avoid sugar crashes is to incorporate balance. The key is keeping blood glucose levels consistent, which can be done by balancing meals with the appropriate amounts of protein sources, fiber and fats:
Eat a variety of foods. To keep blood glucose levels consistent, keep a balance of all major food groups and nutrients. All meals and snacks eaten throughout the day should include a mix of protein, fiber, carbohydrates and fat. If a high-carb meal or snack is consumed without any sources of protein, fiber or fat, blood glucose levels drop. This drop causes a sugar crash.
If you’re going to eat simple sugars, eat them with or after other meals. Simple sugars are foods that contain refined sugars and very few essential vitamins and minerals. Examples of foods that contain simple sugars include fruit juice, milk, desserts and candy. Avoid a sugar crash by making sure to eat them with foods containing fat, fiber and protein.
Eat less but more often. Eat smaller portions every two to three hours throughout the day. Continue to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner, but eat smaller portions at those meals and incorporate two to three snacks a day in between those staple meals.
Don’t restrict any foods. Avoid overindulging but enjoy it all. Consume all foods, drinks and desserts in moderation, especially simple carbohydrates/sugars. Just be sure to eat your simple sugars with other nutrient-dense meals to avoid a sugar crash.
Plan your meals. To ensure each meal or snack includes an appropriate balance of carbohydrates, protein and fat, plan meals ahead of time. It typically works best to plan each meal at least one day prior to consumption. By sitting down and planning meals, you can make sure you have a proper balance for the next day. Your doctor can refer a registered dietitian to help with personalized meal planning advice if needed.
Fixing a crash
Overall, it’s important to have a variety of foods throughout the day to avoid a sugar crash, but it’s also important to know which foods “fix” a sugar crash.
While it’s common for people to think they can beat a sugar crash by eating more carbohydrates for energy, it will only temporarily boost energy. The underlying problem is protein malnutrition, which won’t be resolved by eating a candy bar. During a sugar crash, the body is looking for protein sources to balance out blood glucose levels.
So make sure to eat some protein. Otherwise the sugar crashes will continue.
Learn more
What’s the scoop on sugar? Take our quiz
Mindful eating benefits the whole family
How your grandmother’s diet could affect you
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SHN Staff
Sanford Health News is your site for health news from the experts at Sanford Health. SHN staff is a team of Midwest-Emmy-winning journalists bringing you trustworthy information on healthy living, health care, scientific research, health conditions and medical innovation.
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Health
6 ways to avoid a sugar crash after eating sweets or carbs
Written by
Ashley Laderer; edited by
Samantha Crozier
2021-12-14T19:53:34Z
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This article was medically reviewed by Jason R. McKnight, MD, MS, a family medicine physician and clinical assistant professor at Texas A&M College of Medicine.
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Sugar crashes can occur after consuming things like pastries, cookies, sodas, and juices.
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A sugar crash happens when blood sugar levels dip below normal after you eat lots of carbs or sugar.
You can avoid it by breaking up your usual portions into smaller, more frequent meals.
It also helps if you eat less sugar and eat more protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
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Ever felt shaky, weak, and nauseous after eating a lot of carbs or sugar? If yes, you've likely experienced what's called reactive hypoglycemia, or more commonly known as a sugar crash. Reactive hypoglycemia is when sugar levels in the blood, aka glucose levels, dip below normal two to four hours after eating. Medical term: Glucose is a simple sugar that your body produces from breaking down carbohydrates for energy. It ends up in your blood as blood sugar. Consuming a lot of sugar or processed carbs in a short period of time will raise your blood sugar, and can later result in a sugar crash.People with diabetes are prone to these types of blood sugar crashes — especially if they're not getting the right medication dose. However, anyone can experience the uncomfortable side effects of reactive hypoglycemia. It's unclear what causes sugar crashes after a carb-heavy meal, but there are proven ways to help avoid it. Note: The majority of research on blood sugar maintenance involves people with diabetes. However, the basic premise of eating the right foods and portions applies to everyone who is trying to avoid a sugar crash.Overall, it's best to change your eating habits in order to promote slower digestion. When the stomach empties at a slower, steadier rate, your body converts the food into glucose more gradually, preventing a more dramatic blood sugar spike, says Samantha Cochrane, LD, registered dietitian nutritionist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.Here are six dietitian-approved ways to avoid a sugar crash.
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1. Eat small, frequent meals To avoid blood sugar crashes, consider breaking up your typical large meals into smaller meals or snacks that you eat every few hours. Smaller meals deliver a smaller dose of carbs, which can help stabilize blood sugar and reduce the risk of sugar spikes and subsequent crashes, says Courtney Cary, MS, RD, senior registered dietitian in the Department of Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine.
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2. Increase your protein intakeEat protein with your meals since it helps slow digestion, which may prevent blood sugar spikes and subsequent crashes, says Cochrane.Quick tip: The daily recommended amount of protein per day is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. A simple way to calculate this is by multiplying your weight in pounds by 0.36.The following are examples of healthy protein sources:Lean meatsFishEggsNutsBeansLegumes
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3. Eat complex carbohydrates instead of simple carbohydratesIf your carb intake mainly consists of foods like white rice, white bread, and pasta, you're consuming carbs that don't have fiber or protein to assist with blood sugar control, says Cary. These are known as simple carbohydrates.Instead, opt for complex carbohydrates which are much better for stabilizing blood sugar since they contain protein and fiber that take longer to digest. They also typically have a low glycemic index, meaning they cause a more gradual rise and fall in blood sugar levels, Cary says.Cary says some examples of complex carbohydrate foods are:Brown riceQuinoaWhole grain breadWheat or bean-based pastasBeans
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4. Incorporate healthy fats into your dietSimilar to protein, healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are beneficial for blood sugar since they take longer to digest than simple carbs, Cochrane says. You can find these healthy fats in foods such as:AvocadosNutsOils like olive, canola, safflower, and sunflower
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5. Decrease or eliminate high sugar foods and drinks High-sugar foods and drinks are typically made up of simple sugars that your body breaks down quickly causing a rapid increase and subsequent drop in blood sugar, says Cary.High-sugar foods and drinks to avoid include just about anything loaded with calories, carbs, and little else (like fiber and protein):CandySodaJuicePastriesCakesSweet cocktails and mocktails
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6. Pay attention to "added sugar" on food labelsAdded sugar refers to sugars added to foods that are not naturally occurring, says Cary. "For example, lactose is the naturally-occurring sugar in dairy products. A serving of strawberry yogurt may have 15 grams of sugar [from lactose], but also contain 18 grams of added sugar for flavoring," says Cary.A 2017 study found that only 44% of American adults stick to the dietary guidelines of keeping their added sugar intake below 10% of their daily calories — so for a 2,000 calorie diet, that equates to no more than 20 grams of added sugar a day.
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Insider's takeawayBy following these tips, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals, opting for complex carbohydrates, and decreasing overall simple sugar intake, you can successfully avoid sugar crashes. If you follow these tips and still experience sugar crashes, consider getting checked out by your doctor to see if there may be any underlying cause such as pre-diabetes or a metabolic disorder. "Sometimes these crashes are predictive of future blood sugar problems, like diabetes. Many times, changes in how one eats and what is eaten can make a significant difference in preventing these blood sugar crashes," says Cochrane.
Ashley Laderer
Ashley Laderer is a freelance writer from New York who specializes in health and wellness. Follow her on Twitter @ashladerer
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Reactive Hypoglycemia: Causes, How It Feels, Triggers
Reactive Hypoglycemia: Causes, How It Feels, Triggers
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Type 2 Diabetes
Hypoglycemia
Reactive Hypoglycemia Overview
Blood Sugar Drops After Eating
By
Debra Manzella, RN
Updated on October 24, 2023
Medically reviewed by
Danielle Weiss, MD
Table of Contents
View All
Table of Contents
Definition
Signs and Symptoms
When to See a Healthcare Provider
Diagnosis
Conditions That Can Mimic Hypoglycemia
Causes
Treatment
Reactive hypoglycemia, also called postprandial hypoglycemia, is when your blood sugar (blood glucose) drops after eating. Sometimes referred to as a "sugar crash," reactive hypoglycemia usually occurs within four hours of eating.
Reactive hypoglycemia is one of two types of hypoglycemia unrelated to diabetes. The other is known as fasting hypoglycemia, which happens when you don't eat for a long time. Other medical conditions may also mimic hypoglycemia.
The cause of reactive hypoglycemia is often unknown, although there are a handful of medical conditions associated with it. The treatment is typically focused on normalizing blood glucose levels by consuming a small amount of sugary food or beverage.
Verywell / Alex Dos Diaz
This article explains what reactive hypoglycemia is and how it differs from hypoglycemia in people with diabetes. It also outlines the symptoms, causes, and methods of diagnosing and treating this uncommon form of hypoglycemia.
What Is Hypoglycemia?
Hypoglycemia is the medical term for low blood sugar, with the prefix hypo- meaning "low" and "glycemia" referring to the presence of glucose in the blood. Glucose is one of the main sources of energy for the body.
Hypoglycemia occurs when blood glucose levels drop below normal. Symptoms of hypoglycemia typically occur when glucose levels drop below 70 milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dL).
Hypoglycemia is common in people with diabetes, who may experience a drop in blood sugar due to high insulin doses, among other things. But, hypoglycemia can also affect people who don't have diabetes for entirely different reasons.
Reactive Hypoglycemia
Usually happens after eating high-carbohydrate meals
Could indicate pre-diabetes or being at risk for diabetes
May be caused by a history of stomach surgery
Fasting Hypoglycemia
Occurs after a long period of time without eating
Could be caused by certain medications, alcohol, or illnesses that cause low glucose
May be caused by low levels of hormones
Reactive Hypoglycemia
Reactive hypoglycemia is a type of non-diabetic hypoglycemia.
Reactive hypoglycemia occurs exclusively after eating food. By contrast, hypoglycemia in people with diabetes is often caused by postponing or skipping meals.
Hypoglycemia in people with diabetes can also occur if they take too much insulin or diabetes medications or if they exercise vigorously without adjusting their medications or eating more food.
Reactive Hypoglycemia Symptoms and Signs
Reactive hypoglycemia can cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe. It is rarely life-threatening but may be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms of this condition vary by how rapidly or severely blood sugar levels drop. As such, what reactive hypoglycemia feels like can differ from person to person and even episode to episode in the same person.
Some symptoms of reactive hypoglycemia include:
Shaking or tremorsHungerRapid heartbeatAnxiety or panicTingling near the mouthSweatingHeadacheFatigueInability to concentrateDilated pupilsIrritabilityRestlessnessNauseaDizzinessWeaknessLoss of muscle control
Severe Symptoms
If the drop in blood sugar is severe, it can cause profound and even debilitating symptoms. This is particularly true if the person is dehydrated.
Severe symptoms of reactive hypoglycemia include:
Confusion
Changes in behavior
Slurred speech
Clumsy movements
Blurry or double-vision
Seizures
Loss of consciousness
What Is Hypoglycemia?
When to See a Healthcare Provider
Generally speaking, a single episode of reactive hypoglycemia is not a cause for alarm unless the symptoms are severe, such as passing out or experiencing a seizure. Severe symptoms are most likely to occur if a person is dehydrated, which in itself may require treatment.
Recurrent episodes should never be overlooked. While it is possible that dietary habits are contributing to the episodes, the bigger concern is that a recurrent drop in blood sugar may be a sign of an undiagnosed medical condition, such as Addison's disease or pancreatitis.
Diagnosis
Reactive hypoglycemia can be diagnosed by measuring the amount of glucose in a person's blood while they are having symptoms. If the blood glucose level is below 70 mg/dL, your healthcare provider may recommend a mixed meal tolerance test (MMTT).
The MMTT is performed by feeding the person a beverage rich in protein, carbohydrates, and fat (such as Ensure or Boost). After drinking the beverage, blood glucose levels are retested every 30 minutes for five hours.
In addition to glucose, the MMTT will monitor insulin levels in the blood. This is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar.
Conditions That Can Mimic Hypoglycemia
Conditions other than hypoglycemia can have some of the same symptoms, including dizziness, weakness, sweating, and rapid heartbeat.
These include a wide variety of conditions, such as:
Anxiety
Migraine headache
Heat exhaustion
Menopause
Hyperthyroidism
Syncope
To decide if your symptoms are due to hypoglycemia, your healthcare provider will look for signs of the "Whipple Triad."
This includes:
Symptoms of hypoglycemiaLow plasma glucose measurements while you have symptomsNo symptoms when your glucose increases to normal levels
Without these three indications, your healthcare provider will likely evaluate you for other conditions that have similar symptoms.
How Hypoglycemia Is Diagnosed
Reactive Hypoglycemia Causes
Triggers for reactive hypoglycemia can include eating high-carbohydrate meals or snacks. One theory as to why it occurs is that when a person eats carbs with a high glycemic index, the body produces enough insulin to combat hyperglycemia.
However, the body is not prepared for a crash because glucagon, which can counteract the action of insulin, is not adequately produced. Therefore, when blood sugar does go down, the body does not bring up the sugar by gluconeogenesis or glycogenolysis, which are processes that produce blood glucose from stored materials In the body.
There are several other conditions that are known to cause non-diabetic hypoglycemia.
Among them:
The deficiency of certain digestive enzymes can interfere with the body's ability to break down food. This, in turn, can reduce the amount of glucose available for absorption in the intestines. Causes include chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, and pancreatic cancer.
Late dumping syndrome can cause symptoms similar to those of reactive hypoglycemia after gastric bypass surgery. This complication of the surgery is when food passes through the digestive tract so quickly that not enough glucose is derived from food. Early dumping syndrome occurs when large amounts of food from your stomach move faster than normal into your duodenum, and it is unrelated to blood sugar levels.
Addison's disease causes a deficiency of hormones produced by the adrenal glands. This, in turn, can increase a person's sensitivity to insulin.
Insulinomas are rare, non-cancerous tumors in the pancreas that cause the overproduction of insulin. The overproduction, in turn, causes a drop in blood sugar. However, insulinoma usually causes more pronounced fasting hypoglycemia rather than in-between-meal hypoglycemia.
Non-insulinoma pancreatogenic hypoglycemia syndrome (NIPHS) is another rare condition that causes changes in the pancreas, leading to the overproduction of insulin.
Although there isn't a definite link, stress may affect your blood sugar because it causes a rush of adrenaline. This releases glucose into the bloodstream from temporary storage sites in your body, thereby increasing blood sugar levels. Stress can also cause some people to overeat in response to increased cortisol, a stress hormone, which can lead to a spike in blood sugar.
Too much insulin intake can cause lower levels of glucose in the blood.
Reactive Hypoglycemia Treatment
The amount of time an episode of hypoglycemia lasts will depend on how low the glucose level has dropped. If the glucose levels are extremely low and left untreated, fainting and even seizures can occur. If treated with fast-acting carbohydrates, a person may recover within 15 minutes.
An episode of reactive hypoglycemia may correct itself on its own and most of the time, people don't need medical treatment. However, if the symptoms are recurring, they may be the result of an underlying condition that needs treatment.
For an underlying medical condition, the treatment will focus on resolving or managing the condition. This may include the surgical removal of an insulinoma or, in the case of NIPHS, the partial removal of the pancreas itself.
For all other cases, there are two aspects of treatment. The first is knowing how to respond to hypoglycemic episodes. The second is making changes to prevent future episodes.
What to Eat During an Episode
If you have an episode of reactive hypoglycemia, you can use food to help restore normal blood sugar levels. This is accomplished with the "15-15 Rule," which involves eating 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates and checking your blood sugar 15 minutes later to see if the levels have normalized.
Carbohydrates ("carbs") are essentially sugar molecules. Fast-acting carbohydrates are certain types of foods or beverages that can quickly raise the blood sugar level.
If the blood glucose level is still below 70 mg/dL after 15 minutes, you would eat another serving and check again in 15 minutes.
Recommended Fast-Acting Carbs
Corn syrup (1 tablespoon)Fruit juice or regular soda (1/2 cup)Glucose gel (1 small tube)Glucose tablets (3 to 4 tablets)Sugar (1 tablespoon or 5 sugar cubes)Honey or syrup (1 tablespoon)Hard candies, jellybeans, or gumdrops—see food label for how many to eatOrange juice (1/2 cup)Raisins (2 tablespoons)Banana (half)Non-fat milk (1 cup)
When treating a low, the choice of carbohydrate source is important. Limit high glycemic index (GI) foods that cause blood sugar levels to rise and then fall quickly, such as white bread, white rice, or sweetened yogurt. In addition, foods that contain fats along with carbs (like chips, cookies, or a candy bar) can slow the absorption of glucose and should not be used to treat an emergency low.
Once your symptoms have eased, have a snack if your next meal is more than 1 hour away to prevent your blood sugar from dropping again.
Some healthy options include:
Fruit and nuts or seedsGreek yogurt and berries1/2 to 1 whole sandwichSnack bar
Treating Hypoglycemia With Fast-Acting Carbs
Prevention
The cause of reactive hypoglycemia in most cases is unknown. Even so, certain dietary and lifestyle changes may reduce the odds of it happening again.
Reactive Hypoglycemia Diet
Among the diet recommendations your healthcare provider may give you:
Eat a balanced diet that includes lean protein, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and low-fat dairy.
Limit foods that have a high glycemic index (GI). These are foods that cause a rapid increase in blood sugar followed by a rapid decline.
Eat small, frequent meals that include fiber and protein.
Do not go longer than three hours without eating.
Avoid alcohol on an empty stomach, and avoid sugary mixers.
Physical Activity
In addition, you should exercise regularly. Physical activity increases the amount of glucose taken up from the blood. This, in turn, helps stabilize insulin levels.
If you're just starting to get active, remember to work your way up to increasing your activity. It's also worth consulting with your healthcare provider before beginning.
A Guide to Low-Carb Snacks
Summary
Reactive hypoglycemia is a drop in blood glucose (sugar) that occurs after eating. Symptoms usually develop within four hours of consuming food and may include shakiness, dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, and sweating. Severe cases can lead to fainting or seizures.
Reactive hypoglycemia is not related to diabetes, and the cause of most episodes is unknown. The treatment typically involves eating fast-acting carbohydrates that can quickly bring blood sugar levels back to normal.
11 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
American Diabetes Association. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Bansai N, Weinstock RS. Non-diabetic hypoglycemia. In: Endotext [Internet]. South Dartmouth, MA: MDText.com Inc.; 2020.
Altuntas Y. Postprandial reactive hypoglycemia. Sisli Etfal Hastan Tip Bul. 2019;53(3):215–20. doi:10.14744/SEMB.2019.59455
Galati SJ, Rayfield EJ. Approach to the patient with postprandial hypoglycemia. Endocr Pract. 2014 Apr;20(4):331-40. doi:10.4158/EP13132.RA
Stuart K, Field A, Raju J, Ramachandran S. Postprandial reactive hypoglycaemia: Varying presentation patterns on extended glucose tolerance tests and possible therapeutic approaches. Case Rep Med. 2013;2013:273957. doi:10.1155/2013/273957
Martens P, Tits J. Approach to the patient with spontaneous hypoglycemia. Eur J Intern Med. 2014 Jun;25(5):415-21. doi: 10.1016/j.ejim.2014.02.011
Boston Children's Hospital. What is hypoglycemia and low blood sugar?
Endocrine Society. Hypoglycemia.
Salehi M, Vella A, McLaughlin T, Patti ME. Hypoglycemia after gastric bypass surgery: Current concepts and controversies. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2018;103(8):2815–2826. doi:10.1210/jc.2018-00528
Harvard Health Publishing. Understanding the stress response.
National Institute of Digestive and Diabetes and Kidney Diseases. Low blood glucose (hypoglycemia).
By Debra Manzella, RN
Debra Manzella, MS, RN, is a corporate clinical educator at Catholic Health System in New York with extensive experience in diabetes care.
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Sugar Crash: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
Sugar Crash: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
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Bell, MD, FACP — By Amber Petty on January 28, 2021Without diabetesWith diabetesHypoglycemia dietSymptomsTreatmentFeeling dizzy, shaky, and anxious? It may be more than a reaction to scrolling through social media. It could be a symptom of a sugar crash, aka reactive hypoglycemia. A sugar crash is more than the lazy feeling you experience at the office after a big lunch. It’s a specific type of hypoglycemia that occurs without having diabetes.Though it’s often not serious, it can be very uncomfortable and may point to an underlying condition.What is a sugar crash? Also known as reactive or fasting hypoglycemia, a sugar crash occurs when blood sugar levels fall below 70 milligrams per deciliter, usually after a meal, according to the American Diabetes Association.Usually within 4 hours of a meal, reactive hypoglycemia is known as postprandial hypoglycemia.It’s possible to experience this type of hypoglycemia without having diabetes.Symptomsdizzinesshungershakinessanxietyconfusionincreased heart rateirritabilityCausesprediabetesrecent stomach surgeryin rare cases, a stomach enzyme deficiencymedicines like salicylates, sulfa antibiotics, pentamidine, and quinineserious heart, liver, or kidney concernslow levels of cortisol, growth hormones, glucagon, or epinephrineheavy alcohol consumptionpancreatic tumorHow to avoidEat 15 grams of carbs right after a crash.Eat small meals throughout the day.Limit sugary foods.Was this helpful?Share on PinterestDamir Khabirov/Getty ImagesReactive hypoglycemia: Sugar crashes without diabetesWould a sugar crash by any other name be quite as sweet? Yes. Sugar crashes go by many aliases, including:Reactive hypoglycemia. The symptoms develop a few hours after eating.Fasting hypoglycemia. The symptoms don’t relate to meal times and typically occur due to an underlying condition.Sugar gets a bad rap, but your brain and body need it to function. There is, ironically, a sweet spot. If blood sugar levels get too high, you’ll get hyperglycemia. Too low, and it goes hypo.When you experience reactive hypoglycemia, your blood sugar takes a dive. And you don’t feel so good.Overactive insulin causes sugar crashes. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels in your body. As blood sugar gets higher (like after eating), your pancreas dishes out insulin to lower glucose. If too much insulin gets out, or your body becomes more resistant to its effects, glucose can suddenly drop. Cue a no-fun sugar crash.According to the American Diabetes Association, when blood sugar gets below 70 milligrams per deciliter, that’s technically hypoglycemia. This applies whether you have diabetes or not. However, during reactive hypoglycemia, blood glucose may drop to 50 milligrams per deciliter. Though the symptoms of both are pretty much the same, reactive and fasting hypoglycemia have different causes. Causes of reactive hypoglycemiaReactive hypoglycemia happens when your pancreas goes a little insulin happy after a meal and 2 to 5 hours later, you start feeling hypoglycemic symptoms, according to a research review. Reactive hypoglycemia is a common symptom of prediabetes. If you have prediabetes, your blood glucose levels are high, but not quite high enough to get the full-on diabetes diagnosis.Prediabetes can be a symptom to help you avoid developing type 2 diabetes by giving you a heads up.This empowers you to make diet and exercise changes that help keep the “pre” in prediabetes and avoid diabetes altogether.Causes of fasting hypoglycemiaFasting hypoglycemia has a few potential and varied causes:Sometimes drinking a bunch of alcohol (especially on an empty stomach) can cause a low sugar episode.Certain medicines can trigger the sugar crash, like salicylates, sulfa drugs, pentamidine, and quinine.It could occur due to low levels of hormones (cortisol, growth hormones, glucagon, or epinephrine), Serious kidney, heart, or liver conditions can cause reactive hypoglycemia. In even rarer cases, a pancreatic tumor may be responsible.According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, in rare cases, a sugar crash could be a symptom of dumping syndrome. This pretty much only happens if you’ve just had a stomach surgery.Blood sugar crashes with diabetesAccording to the American Diabetes Association, when you have diabetes, your body doesn’t make enough insulin to manage sugar. A hypoglycemic incident can occur if you’ve taken too much insulin or because you’re not eating enough, or if you’re cutting carbs too drastically.According to a 2013 condition overview, when you have a sugar crash without diabetes, it happens… because. There’s no clear cause for it other than your insulin and glucose going a little bananas.When to call a doctorWhichever type of sugar crash you experience, you should call a doctor.It doesn’t necessarily mean you have anything as serious as a tumor. But since it can be a symptom of something more serious, it’s best to get a checkup and make sure.What to eat so that you avoid sugar crashes The good news about reactive hypoglycemia is you can often avoid it through dietary changes.And you don’t have to quit sugar forever to avoid a crash. A good reactive hypoglycemia diet is more about balance than cutting out food groups entirely. Good foods to avoid sugar crashes:Healthy fats. Olive and fish oil, nuts, flax seeds, and avocado have healthy fats that keep you full.Fruits and vegetables. Vegetables are good for you (, right?). Choose fresh produce like leafy greens, tomatoes, onions, and peppers — anything except corn and white potatoes. But those are fine in small amounts.Whole grains. Your body digests whole grains at a slower pace than refined grains. This keeps your blood sugar relatively stable throughout the day. Try limiting highly processed carbs and grains.Lean protein. These might include meats, fish, and beans. Baked chicken, turkey, and fish are great lean proteins. Some vegetarian diets allow eggs, and these are a superb protein option. Many vegetarians don’t eat eggs. And, for the vegans in the house, beans will do the trick.Low fat dairy. Yogurt and cheese are good sources of protein and vitamin B12.In addition to maintaining this type of reactive hypoglycemic diet plan, it’s good to eat smaller meals throughout the day.Tucking into a big meal will cause your blood sugar to rise and fall more dramatically, possibly setting you up for a crash. But eating smaller meals throughout the day keeps your blood sugar stable and often wards off reactive hypoglycemia.These snacks are great for peeps with diabetes. Recognizing a sugar crash Symptoms of reactive hypoglycemia are different person to person. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, you could have one or more of these hypoglycemia symptoms when your blood glucose lower:shakinessanxietydizzinessconfusionexcess sweatinghungersleepinessirritabilityincreased heart rateWhat does reactive hypoglycemia feel like?The symptoms of a sugar crash come on fast, may be scary, and can make you feel like you’re going to pass out.Be sure to sit down, eat a small amount of complex carbs, and give yourself a moment to rest.Was this helpful?Symptoms of reactive hypoglycemia are very similar to diabetic hypoglycemia, though the version accompanying diabetes can be a bit more severe.Diabetic hypoglycemia symptoms can also include:feeling weaktingling or numbness in your lipscoordination problemsseizuresnightmaresBlood-sugar-induced nightmares don’t sound fun (who needs to dream of dancing pastries with blood-soaked fangs?) So, be sure to maintain a balanced diet and take any prescribed medicine as instructed by your healthcare provider.Treating reactive hypoglycemiaNobody wants to be hungry, confused, or irritable. Just ask people waiting for a table at a restaurant.Thankfully, sugar crashes are pretty easy to manage. Treatment may vary depending on the cause of the reactive hypoglycemia.How to treat a sugar crashAccording to the American Diabetes Association, when you first recognize a symptom of reactive hypoglycemia, you should eat 15 grams of carbohydrates:Drink some juice.Take a glucose tablet.Suck on a hard candy.If you don’t have a hard candy around, go for some bread, a banana, or another carb. These will help return your blood sugar levels to normal.Carbs are the order of the day here. Fats or proteins won’t raise your blood sugar quickly enough. This means your symptoms will hang around longer.If the symptoms don’t go away in 15 minutes (or if you check your blood glucose, and it’s still under 70 milligrams per deciliter), consume another 15 grams of carbs.While you’re having this snack, stay seated, drink water, and try to remain calm. The carbs will work their magic and the symptoms will resolve. You can also try to reverse type 2 diabetes.How to prevent sugar crashesThe best way to prevent postprandial hypoglycemia is to maintain a balanced diet:Keep your carbs complex.Eat fruits and vegetables. Be sure to include some healthy fats and proteins with every meal. By eating like this five to six times a day, you’ll help keep your blood sugar level regular. You don’t need to cut all sugar. But try to keep the treats to a minimum. Lots of cakes and candies will put you on a blood sugar roller coaster.Instead, eat fruits to stave off sugar cravings and have your sugary goodies every once in a while.Sadly, we can’t always be by the kitchen to eat six meals a day. When you’re out and about, be sure to always carry a healthy snack. (Yes, you get to keep emergency snacks. It’s for your health.) If you have fasting hypoglycemia, it’s also good to follow these dietary ideas but more important to treat the underlying condition. Work with your doctor to find a treatment that prevents sugar crashes.How to test for blood sugar crashesIf you have a blood glucose monitor on hand, you can test yourself during a crash to see if you’re hypoglycemic. But you need testing from a doctor to get a diagnosis and rule out diabetes as a cause.If the doctor suspects reactive or postprandial hypoglycemia, you might be asked to do a mixed-meal tolerance test, according to a small research review. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with how much of a stomach ache you get after eating at a restaurant.Instead, you’ll drink a liquid meal with proteins, fats, and sugar, then have your blood sugar tested multiple times over 5 hours. This tests how your blood sugar reacts when you’re fasting, right after a meal, and hours later.A doctor will ask peeps with potential fasting hypoglycemia to fast for up to 72 hours. Over those few days, they’ll test your blood sugar multiple times.Neither of these tests are invasive or painful. They mostly involve a lot of sitting around and, for peeps with fasting hypoglycemia, a rumbly tummy.These tests will help the doctor determine the exact cause of your reactive hypoglycemia and make sure it’s not a symptom of type 2 diabetes. The diagnosis should come back in a couple of days.After that, you can start dietary changes right away to avoid future sugar crashes.Do I need testing after a sugar crash?It’s important to receive testing after a sugar crash.This is because reactive hypoglycemia can be a symptom of an underlying condition. Without treatment, it can also lead to diabetes. Diabetes can lead to heart disease, kidney disease, stroke, and other health concerns, according to National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. So, it’s best to get a formal diagnosis and start treating your sugar crashes before symptoms gets worse.Was this helpful?TakeawaySugar crashes can happen even if you don’t have diabetes.If you get spells of dizziness, irritability, hunger, or an increased heart rate, call a doctor as soon as you can (especially if these spells often happen).After diagnosis, a balanced diet of complex carbs, healthy fats, and protein can drastically reduce symptoms. Plus, you have a medical excuse to carry around emergency snacks. Last medically reviewed on January 28, 2021 9 sourcescollapsedAltuntaş Y. (2019). Postprandial reactive hypoglycemia.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7192270/Dumping syndrome. (n.d.).https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/dumping-syndromeEckert-Norton M, et al. (2013). Non-diabetic hypoglycemia.https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/98/10/39A/2833336Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). (n.d.).https://www.diabetes.org/healthy-living/medication-treatments/blood-glucose-testing-and-control/hypoglycemiaLow blood glucose (hypoglycemia). (2016).https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/low-blood-glucose-hypoglycemiaNational Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders. (2016). Diabetes diet, eating, & physical activity.https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/diet-eating-physical-activity#:~:text=Instead%2C%20eat%20carbohydrates%20from%20fruit,of%20your%20diabetes%20meal%20planRuan Y, et al. (2019). Mixed-meal tolerance test to assess residual beta-cell secretion: Beyond the area-under-curve of plasma C-peptide concentration.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6487945/Understanding A1C: Diagnosis. (n.d.).https://www.diabetes.org/a1c/diagnosisWhat is diabetes? (2016).https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/what-is-diabetesFEEDBACK:Medically reviewed by Angela M. Bell, MD, FACP — By Amber Petty on January 28, 2021Read this next18 No-Sugar Breakfast Recipes to Avoid an Early CrashStart your day off right with one of these healthy breakfast ideas that have zero added sugar. All of the sweetness comes from natural sources. You…READ MORE21 Ways to Beat the Afternoon SlumpAlways feel tired around 3 p.m.? 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Reactive hypoglycemia: What can I do?
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I think I have reactive hypoglycemia. What can I do for my symptoms?
Answer From M. Regina Castro, M.D.
Hypoglycemia is the medical term for low blood sugar. Reactive hypoglycemia, sometimes called postprandial hypoglycemia, happens when blood sugar drops after a meal — usually within four hours after eating.
Symptoms of hypoglycemia may include:
Shakiness.
Dizziness or lightheadedness.
Sweating.
Hunger.
A fast or uneven heartbeat.
Feeling weak or tired.
Feeling irritable or anxious.
Headache.
Confusion.
In people who have diabetes, insulin or other medicine that's used to lower blood sugar sometimes can lead to hypoglycemia after eating. A change to the medicine dosage may help.
In people who don't have diabetes, the cause of reactive hypoglycemia often isn't clear. But symptoms may be connected to what and when a person eats.
Other possible causes of reactive hypoglycemia include:
Alcohol.
Some surgical procedures, such as gastric bypass or other bariatric surgery.
Metabolic conditions that are passed down in families, also called inherited metabolic disorders.
Certain types of tumors.
A medical evaluation usually is done to see if symptoms are caused by low blood sugar, and if so, whether symptoms get better when blood sugar returns to normal. More testing may be needed if symptoms are severe.
Reactive hypoglycemia usually doesn't require medical treatment. But if another health condition is causing it, that condition needs to be treated. The following diet changes may help ease symptoms:
Eat a balanced diet that includes high-fiber foods, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
Avoid sugary foods and processed simple carbohydrates, such as white bread or white pasta, especially on an empty stomach.
When drinking alcohol, eat food with it.
Eat several small meals and snacks about three hours apart throughout the day.
Exercise on a regular basis.
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M. Regina Castro, M.D.
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Show references
Low blood glucose (hypoglycemia). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/low-blood-glucose-hypoglycemia. Accessed Feb. 9, 2023.
Gardner DG, et al., eds. Hypoglycemic disorders. In: Greenspan's Basic & Clinical Endocrinology. 10th ed. McGraw-Hill; 2018. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed Feb. 9, 2023.
Loscalzo J, et al., eds. Hypoglycemia. In: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 21st ed. McGraw Hill; 2022. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed Feb. 10, 2023.
Vella A. Evaluation of postprandial hypoglycemia in adults without diabetes. https://www.uptodate.com/ contents/search. Accessed Feb. 10, 2023.
Hypoglycemia. Merck Manual Professional Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/endocrine-and-metabolic-disorders/diabetes-mellitus-and-disorders-of-carbohydrate-metabolism/hypoglycemia. Accessed Feb. 10, 2023.
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Blood Sugar Crash (Reactive Hypoglycemia): Causes, Symptoms, Prevention – Lets Moderate
Blood Sugar Crash (Reactive Hypoglycemia): Causes, Symptoms, Prevention
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What is Blood Sugar Crash (Reactive Hypoglycemia)?
What is Blood Sugar Crash (Reactive Hypoglycemia)?
Updated on Dec 06, 2023 & Medically Reviewed by Dr Lalitha
A sugar crash, also known as a "sugar low" or "sugar comedown," medically known as “hypoglycemia” refers to the phenomenon of experiencing a sudden drop in blood sugar levels after a rapid rise caused by the consumption of high-sugar or high-carbohydrate foods. It is the opposite effect of a sugar rush.
When you consume foods rich in sugar or simple carbohydrates, your body rapidly digests and absorbs these carbohydrates, rapidly increasing blood sugar levels. In response, the pancreas releases insulin to help transport the glucose from the bloodstream into cells for energy utilization and storage.
However, consuming excessive amounts of sugar or simple carbohydrates can result in an exaggerated insulin release. This can cause blood sugar levels to drop rapidly below normal levels, leading to a sugar crash.
Blood Sugar Crash (Hypoglycemia) Symptoms:
The severity and duration of a sugar crash can vary among individuals, but common symptoms may include:
Fatigue and Lethargy: A sudden drop in blood sugar levels can cause feelings of tiredness, sluggishness, and a lack of energy.
Hunger and Cravings: Low blood sugar levels can trigger hunger pangs and intense cravings, particularly for sugary or high-carbohydrate foods.
Irritability and Mood Swings: Fluctuations in blood sugar levels can affect mood, leading to irritability, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating.
Shaking or Trembling: Some individuals may experience physical symptoms such as trembling, shakiness, or lightheadedness.
Headache: A sugar crash can sometimes be accompanied by a headache or feelings of dizziness.
What Causes Sugar Crash (Reactive Hypoglycemia)?
Some of the common causes of sugar crashes in people having unbalanced diets or taking too much insulin in their daily life.
Medication: Diabetes drugs, which are used to reduce blood sugar levels, may cause hypoglycemia if taken in excess.
Not Enough Carbs: Eating fewer carbohydrates than normal without decreasing insulin consumption can contribute to hypoglycemia.
During Stomach surgery, which makes food passes to quickly into the small intestine.
Exercises: During exercises, the body uses glucose faster. Having low carbs or too much insulin cause a blood sugar crash.
How to Prevent Sugar Crash (Reactive Hypoglycemia)?
To maintain stable blood sugar levels and avoid frequent sugar crashes, it is advisable to follow these simple tips.
Consume a well-balanced diet(includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods, including whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables).
Small and frequent meals.
Staying Active
Reducing stress
Keeping Hydrated
Adequate sleep
This approach helps provide sustained energy and promotes overall health and well-being. If it’s difficult to combine each meal with all the above, don’t worry, there is always moder/ate™.
What is moder/ate (Moderate Tablet)?
A natural trademarked botanical extract that helps reduce the absorption of carbohydrates and calories into the body, by up to 40% after consuming them. It helps reduce the post-meal sugar and insulin spikes. It has been scientifically proven to be safe and effective, by reducing the post meal sugar spikes by upto 40%, with a positive effect on Insulin spike also.
You can check for yourself. Eat a carb rich meal/breakfast and check your blood sugar levels at 30 min and 60 min post meal. Next day eat the same meal / breakfast after taking a tablet of Moderate 10 min before eating. Then check your blood sugar levels again at 30 min and 60 min post meal. You will see the decrease in blood sugar levels after taking Moderate. This means that you can eat the same quantity of food, but your post meal sugar load and calorie load that enters into the body is lesser by upto 40%.
The Main Benefits of Using Moderate Tablets are
By taking this, it reduces the absorption of carbohydrates/ sugars and calories into the body, thereby reducing the glucose spikes after having heavy glucose/carb meals.
Controls hunger pangs by preventing Glucose crashes. It helps maintains stable blood sugar levels.
Promotes gut health and microbial development, which contributes to overall health.
Aids in conscious eating.
It works best when it is taken 10 minutes before the meal so that it slows down the enzymes that break down carbs and also reduces the glucose absorption nt your body. more effectively and gives you the maximum benefits by limiting blood sugar spiking. This unabsorbed carbs and glucose reach your large intestine and act as prebiotics ( food) for your good gut bacteria, thereby contributing to your GUT health and overall wellbeing.
FAQs:
Q) How to Break the Sugar Crash (Reactive Hypoglycemia)?
A) A sugar crash is a sudden drop in blood sugar levels after consuming a high amount of sugar. To stop this include Balanced meals with low glycemic index foods, Including protein, fiber, and healthy fats, and avoiding sugary beverages, processed foods, and refined sugars in your diet.
Q) Are Sugar Crashes Bad?
A) Sugar crashes, also known as Reactive Hypoglycemia. They indicate problems with blood sugar management, which can lead to consequences if left untreated. Fatigue, weakness, disorientation, irritability, and increased hunger are some symptoms. While not intrinsically hazardous, they have an impact on well-being and can contribute to blood sugar instability, weight gain, and diabetes risk. Consult a healthcare expert for an assessment and recommendations on managing blood sugar levels through dietary and lifestyle modifications.
Q) Does a Sugar Crash Make You Feel Sleepy?
A) Yes, a sugar crash can cause sleepiness. Consuming a large amount of sugar can cause a rapid spike in your blood sugar levels. However, this is followed by a quick drop in blood sugar levels, which can lead to feelings of fatigue, sleepiness, and a general lack of energy. To avoid these crashes and associated sleepiness it is critical to maintain stable blood sugar levels by eating balanced meals and avoiding excessive sugar intake.
Also Read the Related Articles:
11 Reasons Why Excess Sugar Consumption is Bad for Your Health?
How Do Blood Sugar Levels Fluctuate Over Time After Meal?
Effects of Sugary Foods (Like Sweets) and Beverages on Blood Sugar Levels
How to Manage Stress to Control Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetics?
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