8 ways to increase blood sugar quickly
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When your blood sugar drops too low, good food or good drink containing rapid action carbohydrates can bring it back in a few minutes. But not all choices work in the same way, and knowing which ones reach can make a big difference in the way you feel.
1. Glucose or freezing tablets
Glucose tablets and gels are designed specifically to treat low blood sugar, making it a reliable first choice:
- Glucose tablets or gel contain a measured quantity of glucose, so you know exactly how much you take, generally about 4 to 5 grams of carbohydrates per tablet or 15 grams of carbohydrates by gel or tube package.
- They usually increase blood sugar in 10 to 15 minutes.
- They are widely available in pharmacies, online and in certain grocery stores.
- They are practical to stay in a handbag, backpack, office or bedside table.
Follow the rule 15-15
A simple way to manage low blood sugar is to follow the rule of 15-15. This rule recommends:
- Eat or drink 15 grams of rapid action carbohydrates (crabs)
- While waiting for 15 minutesThen enhance your blood sugar.
- If your blood sugar is still low – generally less than 70 milligrams per decilitre (MG / DL) – Repeat the process until your blood sugar is back in a safe range.
This step-by-step approach prevents both subcontracting and exceeding a weakness, which can cause large fluctuations in glucose levels (sugar). Young children may not need 15 grams of carbohydrates to treat low blood sugar.
2. Fruit juice
The juice is a reference element for a quick sugar stroke. Because it is liquid and contains natural sugar, it works quickly:
- Choose 100% fruit juice (such as orange, apple or grape) without added fibers.
- About 1/2 cup (4 ounces) is generally sufficient to correct low blood sugar.
- Be careful not to drink more than necessary, because too much can cause a rebound.
- The 4 ounce juice boxes are a practical article to keep at hand in an emergency with low blood sugar.
3. Regular soda (non-deputy)
Ordinary soda can work in a pinch if you have no other options. It is best to stick to small quantities:
- Avoid diet or sodas without sugar, as they will not help increase blood sugar.
- About 4 to 6 ounces of ordinary soda (cola, lemon-lime, etc.) gives a quick boost.
- SODA is easy to find in restaurants, automatic distributors or convenience stores.
- It is a good backup option, but not the healthiest choice in the long term.
4. Honey or maple syrup
These pantry staples can be surprisingly effective in treating hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Since they are concentrated sugars, a small quantity goes very far:
- A tablespoon of honey or maple syrup Contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
- Can be taken by the spoonful or mixed in a hot drink.
- Works a little slower than the juice or glucose tablets, but always effective.
- Better used at home rather than on the move, as it is less convenient to transport, unless you use a single package.
No honey for babies
Do not give honey to infants under 12 months due to a risk of infant botulism.
5. Candy hard or frosty seeds
If you don’t have a juice or soda at hand, candies can save the day. The key is to choose candies that are pure sugar rather than chocolate or treats with fats, proteins or fibers:
- The right options include: Jellybeans, Skittles, Smarties or LifesAvers.
- Avoid chocolate or candy with nuts, because fats, fibers and proteins can slow down absorption.
- Count the correct number of parts to match approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
- Candy is portable and easy to keep in your car, desk or bag.
6.
Dry fruits are another rapid source of sugar that can effectively increase blood sugar:
- The raisins, the dates, the prunes, the dried apricots or the dried cranberries are all concentrated sources of carbohydrates.
- A small handle (about 2 tablespoons) provides approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
- Dry fruits are easy to transport in a small container or a snack bag.
- It works well if you prefer a more natural option compared to candies or soda.
7. Small amount of table sugar
It may not be glamorous, but natural sugar works as well as anything else, especially in an emergency:
- A tablespoon of table sugar contains approximately 12 to 15 grams of carbohydrates.
- Sugar can be mixed in water, tea or coffee for rapid absorption.
- It is a reliable option if other foods are not available.
- Keep in mind as a last step back.
8. Fresh fruit
Fresh fruits are one of the most natural ways to quickly increase blood sugar. Because it contains simple sugars, your body quickly absorbs it:
- The best options include ripe or slightly ripe bananas, pineapple or a handful of grapes.
- A small banana or 1 cup of pineapple pieces Provides approximately 15 to 20 grams of carbohydrates.
- Fresh fruits are naturally moisturizing, portable and rich in nutrients.
- It is a healthy alternative to Candy or Soda.
How to prevent low blood sugar
The best strategy for managing hypoglycemia is to prevent it before it occurs. By planning and paying attention to the needs of your body, you can reduce the risk of unexpected hollow.
You will find below some tips for preventing low blood sugar:
- Eat meals and regular snacks that contain a balance between carbohydrates, proteins and healthy fats.
- Do not jump meals, especially if you take insulin or other diabetes drugs.
- Take a quick source of carbohydrates with you at all times, just in case.
- Watch your blood sugar before exercise and continue snacks nearby during activity.
- Speak with your health care provider of the adjustment of drugs or doses of insulin if you live frequent stockings.