Can you have hypoglycemia without diabetes?
Yes, people without diabetes can have hypoglycemia, also called low blood sugar, but it is not very common. Hypoglycemia occurs most frequently in people with diabetes. The symptoms can be similar in both groups, but may be more serious in people with diabetes.
Symptoms may include:
- feeling hungry
- feeling anxious or worried
- sweating or shakiness
- fast heart rate
- passing out (unconsciousness)
Blood glucose (blood sugar) is the main source of energy our body uses. We normally get this from food. When blood glucose falls, our body cannot function normally and we will have symptoms. Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels drop below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).
What causes hypoglycemia in non-diabetics?
Causes of low blood sugar in people who do not have type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes can be due to several factors. Symptoms of hypoglycemia in non-diabetics can occur if you:
- have not eaten for a while
- take a medicine that can lower your blood sugar
- drink too much alcohol, especially over several days
- have a disease of their liver, kidney or pancreas
- have had weight loss surgery
- have the eating disorder anorexia nervosa
- have a certain hormone condition
This is not all the information you need to know about hypoglycemia and does not take the place of talking to your doctor. Discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.
References
- Patient education: Low blood sugar in people without diabetes (The Basics). Up To Date. Accessed Oct. 25, 2021 at https://www.uptodate.com/contents/low-blood-sugar-in-people-without-diabetes-the-basics
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What is the safest diabetes medication?
Metformin is widely considered the safest first-line medication for type 2 diabetes. With decades of clinical use and extensive safety data, it remains the preferred initial treatment according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA). However, the safest medication for any individual depends on their specific health profile, age, kidney function, and treatment goals.
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What foods should I eat or avoid for hypoglycemia?
If you have diabetes, then you will know that certain foods can significantly affect your blood sugar levels. There is no one-size-fits-all meal plan for people with diabetes, but it can be confusing knowing what you can and can’t eat. Some examples of nutritionally high dinners suitable for people at risk of hypoglycemia include: soup, such as lentil and quinoa; grilled fish with broccoli, peas, and sweet potato; broccoli salad with artichokes, black beans, and sun-dried tomatoes; chicken vege stir fry with zucchini, carrots, and broccoli; and vegetarian lentil tacos. Continue reading
Mounjaro vs Ozempic: Which is right for you?
Mounjaro and Ozempic are prescription medicines used alongside diet and exercise to help control blood sugar (glucose) levels in adults with type 2 diabetes.
Ozempic is also approved to lower the risk of a major cardiovascular event (like a heart attack or stroke) in patients with type 2 diabetes, as well as to reduce the risk of worsening kidney disease and heart-related death in patients with type 2 diabetes. Mounjaro has not yet received these indications, although studies are ongoing.
You and your healthcare provider should discuss the risks vs. benefits and costs of these medications to determine which one is right for you.
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