What Really Happens To Your Body When Your Blood Sugar Drops

We've all heard about high and low blood sugar when referencing health problems like diabetes and hypoglycemia. But what does low blood sugar really mean, and how does it affect the body? Here's what you should know.

Also called glucose, blood sugar is the main sugar that can be found in the blood of humans and animals. It comes from food and is the body's main source of energy. Your blood carries the glucose to your organs, muscles, and nervous system to distribute nutrients and give all those areas energy to function (via Live Science). Glucose comes mainly from carbohydrates, so the more carbs you eat, the higher your blood sugar will be.

If your blood sugar is consistently too high, it can lead you to develop Type 2 diabetes (via Healthline). Diabetes can lead to many other health problems including issues with your heart, kidneys, eyes, and blood vessels. If your blood sugar is too low, it can cause problems too. Normally, the body can stabilize blood sugar levels for a period of time to avoid negative health issues. However, when your blood sugar is low for too long or your body cannot stabilize your blood sugar levels, you can develop hypoglycemia.

Very low blood sugar levels can cause hypoglycemia. Although this health condition is often associated with diabetes, it can occur in people who do not have diabetes. If you have diabetes, hypoglycemia typically occurs when your body creates too much insulin. Insulin breaks down sugar in the bloodstream so it can be used as energy. Too much insulin in your system, however, can have the opposite effect and cause your blood sugar levels to drop (via Healthline).

Symptoms of mild to moderate hypoglycemia include confusion, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, anxiety, headaches, cold sweats, shivering, and a racing pulse (via Medical News Today). More severe cases can cause people to have seizures or become unconscious. If you experience any of the mild to moderate symptoms, you may be able to find relief by eating a snack that contains carbohydrates. This can include eating complex carbohydrates like bread and potatoes or drinking a glass of 100% fruit juice.

If you are regularly experiencing these symptoms, talk to your doctor. It may be necessary to get glucose injections or other treatment.