Diabetes Tip: Avoid Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Here are some ways to avoid low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and keep your diabetes in control:

  • Always test your blood sugar before and after exercise
  • If you think you have low blood sugar or feel sick, test your blood sugar immediately
  • Have at least 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate with you to treat low blood sugar
Fast-Acting Carbohydrate  Amount  Grams of Carbohydrate 
Glucose Gel  1 tube 15
Glucose Tablets 

3

 15
Grape, prune or cranberry juice  1/3 cup  15 
Hard candies  3  15 
Honey 1 Tbsp. 15
Jell-O (regular)  1/2 cup  15 
Jelly beans  20  15 
Lifesavers  5 15
Orange, apple or pineapple juice  1/2 cup 15 
Popsicle  1  15 
Raisins 2 Tbsp. 15
Regular soft drink  1/2 cup  15
Sugar  1 Tbsp.  15 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*Carbohydrates given to treat low blood sugar are not to be counted as part of your normal day’s carbohydrate allowance.

For More Information
 To learn more about Sharp's diabetes services or to find a Sharp-affiliated doctor, search for a San Diego endocrinologist or call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. To find general information about diabetes, visit Diabetes Care in Adult Health or read the Diabetes News archive.