What is the treatment for hypoglycemia?

1.If you feel that your blood glucose is too low, test it. If it is 70 mg/dl or lower, you should eat or drink 15 grams of carbohydrate quickly 1/2 cup of fruit juice, such as:

• 1-2 teaspoons of sugar or honey
• 1/2 cup of regular soda
• 5-6 pieces of hard candy
• Glucose gel or tablets (take the amount noted on the package to add up to 15 grams of carbohydrate)
• 1 cup of milk

2.Test your blood sugar again in 15 minutes. If it is still below 70 mg/dl, eat another 15 grams of carbohydrate. If your blood glucose is not low but your next meal is an hour away, have a snack with starch and protein, such as:

• Crackers and peanut butter or cheese
• Half a ham or turkey sandwich
• Crackers or cereal with a cup of milk

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) states that milk is better than juice or glucose because it has lactose, fat and proteins that will help keep your blood sugar remain steady over time. A candy bar or other high fat sweets can raise blood sugar too high after you eat them and can contribute to weight gain.

Adult family members should also know how to inject glucagon, a hormone that causes your liver to release glucose. Your doctor can prescribe a glucagon kit. Always keep it in the same place and make sure family and friends know where it is. It is extremely important that those around you know what to do in an emergency.