We talk about high blood sugar levels a lot. The condition of low blood sugar is equally serious and it can sometimes take very dangerous turns. A blood sugar level of 70 to 99 mg/dL is regarded as the normal range when tested under fasting conditions. Sometimes, people might experience sudden falls in blood sugar level.
Here, we will discuss how to increase blood sugar level immediately with food and other effective measures. A number of food items, like cookies, fruit juices, and candies have the ability to increase blood sugar values immediately. So, let us find out more about the different measures that can be taken when the blood sugar level falls suddenly.
How to increase blood sugar level immediately with food
Blood sugar range denotes the concentration of glucose that is present in a person’s blood. This glucose is actually derived from the food that one consumes. Thus, there is a close connection between the food we eat and our glucose levels.
So, this can be considered as a very effective method by which you will be able to bring forth an immediate increase in your blood sugar level. If you are prone to sudden dips in the blood sugar, then always keep some of these foods with you.
1. Cookies
When you experience sudden falls in your blood sugar level, you can try eating some cookies. They will restore your sugar values within a few minutes. Along with that, you will also experience a sudden surge in your energy levels. While choosing cookies for this purpose, it is advised that you go for the ones that are made with oats and nuts.
2. Fruit Juices
Fruit juices can be considered one of the best and most convenient options when a person is showing symptoms of low blood sugar levels. Lack of energy often makes it tough for the patient to chew any solid food. In that case, fruit juices can be given to them and their blood sugar levels will get to the normal range immediately. Among the different fruit juices, grape and pineapple juices are the best option for such cases.
3. Candies
People who suffer from low blood sugar levels frequently must always keep some sweets and candies with them. The candies will help in increasing blood sugar almost instantly. Thereby, the patient will experience quick relief.
4. Sugar
Sometimes, we might not have any blood sugar level-increasing food items with us. During such situations, you can simply eat a tablespoon of sugar. Alternatively, you can also take some applesauce or honey if they are available. These substances have the capacity to produce a quick surge in blood sugar levels and will restore your energy at the same time.
5. Granola Bars
Always keep a granola bar with you if you experience a dip in your blood sugar levels very often. These bars can produce a quick effect on your blood sugar values. There are many Granola bars available in the market. Make sure you are going with one that is made from nuts, oats, or rice krispies.
6. Milk
Add some sugar to a glass of milk and sip it quickly whenever you notice symptoms of low blood sugar levels such as hunger, shaking, sweating, fast heartbeat, or dizziness. This will bring your blood sugar values back to the normal range. Apart from that, it will also offer you many other nutrients and minerals.
7. Fresh or Dried fruits
This is an effective food option that can be taken to increase your blood sugar levels. There are wide varieties of fruits that you can take, like oranges, bananas, apricots, pears, etc. Dried fruits can also be taken to achieve a normal blood sugar level immediately.
How to increase blood sugar level immediately without food?
The problem of low blood sugar can also be managed with other effective remedies. These are actually medical remedies and will help in enhancing the blood sugar levels of the individual almost instantly. Some of these remedies can be easily availed without the need of any kind of prescription.
However, some require you to consult with your healthcare provider and take a prescription. So, if you are looking for a more dependable option, then please keep on reading.
1. Glucose Gel & Chewable Glucose Tablets
Glucose gel and chewable glucose tablets are very effective when it comes to bringing an increase in your blood sugar levels immediately. For buying these tablets from the pharmacy, you will not be requiring any kind of prescription. People who experience such frequent low blood sugar episodes must buy and keep these tablets with them always. This will enable them to manage the instances of low blood sugar level effectively.
2. Glucagon Kit
Glucagon is a hormone that is naturally present in our body and it signals our liver to release adequate glucose into our bloodstream. During episodes of low blood sugar levels, the glucagon kits can be used. These kits are especially helpful when the patient is unable to use any other blood sugar-increasing remedies. This happens during instances of loss of consciousness. During such cases, a family member, friend, or colleague can administer the medication present inside the kit into the patient’s buttocks, thigh, or arm. You will be able to get this glucagon kit by prescription only. So, consult with your doctor to see if this is a viable option in your case or not.
Tips for keeping blood sugar levels within normal range
The blood sugar levels can show a dip because of a number of reasons. People who are prone to such episodes of low blood sugar levels must take certain measures to prevent such instances.
- Always take your meals at fixed times and avoid skipping meals. Skipping meals can bring about a significant decrease in your blood sugar levels.
- People who are prone to blood sugar level fluctuations must keep a track of it. This will help them to manage the situation at the earliest.
- Try to take food items that are low in trans fat, saturated fat, and calories. Strictly avoid the consumption of all kinds of alcoholic beverages.
- Monitor your food and water intake correctly. Also, pay attention to your physical activities.
FAQs
Q1. How to check blood sugar levels?
Blood sugar levels can be checked with the help of a Glucometer, or a Continuous Glucose Monitor(CGM).
Q2. When should you check your blood sugar levels?
Depending upon your condition, your health care provider might ask you to check your blood sugar levels at the following times:
- When you wake up in the morning.
- Before taking a meal.
- Two hours after taking a meal.
- Before bedtime.
Q3. What are normal blood sugar targets?
The normal blood sugar target before a meal is 80-130 mg/dL. The target two hours after the consumption of a meal is less than 180 mg/dL.
Conclusion
We have discussed how to increase blood sugar level immediately with food and without food. It can be rightly said that the condition of low blood sugar level or hypoglycemia is very dangerous and it can worsen quickly. If proper measures are not taken, it can even lead to cardio-respiratory arrest, encephalopathy, brainstem damage, coma and death. So, during episodes of low blood sugar levels, responding immediately with effective measures is very important. If the patient is unresponsive, then make sure they are receiving appropriate medical attention at the earliest.
