We’ve been warned about the dangers of low blood sugar, and people with diabetes try their best to avoid it. But what happens when, despite doing everything by the book, hypoglycemia just won’t leave you alone?
When I was an intern, I had a patient who experienced many hypoglycemic episodes within a week. Despite taking her pills and eating what-seems-to-be well-balanced meals, her glycemia is always on the lower end of the spectrum.
If you have a tendency to suffer from low blood sugar, here are four possible causes behind it.
Medication. Some pills, prescribed or over-the-counter, can cause a drop in your blood sugar. Examples include acetaminophen (a.k.a Tylenol), beta-blockers (heart medications usually ending with –lol), salicylates (aspirin), and some anti-depression pills. Before gulping down any drug, inquire a pharmacist about the possible side effects and inform him about your diabetes.
Alcohol. Hypoglycemia induced by alcohol consumption can be delayed for as long as 24 hours. Drinking on an empty stomach puts you at greater for hypoglycemia because the alcohol is absorbed at a faster rate.
Exercise. If you are training like a beast, be sure to adjust your insulin and eat accordingly. Physical activity helps to reduce insulin resistance which in turn can lead to a decrease dosage of your pills. In other words, exercise can contribute to manage glycemia with less help from pills better. People who start to move more frequently may need to readjust the dosage of their pills. Discuss with your family physician before attempting to play around with your pills.
Skipping meals. It’s not just about eating balanced meals: it’s about chowing down at regular times as well. You see, the carb distribution throughout the day is just as crucial as the total daily carb intake for managing diabetes. Following regular meal times helps to prevent blood sugar rollercoaster, control appetite, and manage weight loss.
