What are the short-term remedies for reactive hypoglycemia?

Short-Term Remedies for Reactive Hypoglycemia

For reactive hypoglycemia, consume 15-20g of glucose as the preferred treatment, followed by a balanced meal or snack containing protein to prevent recurrence of symptoms. 1

Immediate Treatment Options (In Order of Preference)

First-Line Options:

• Glucose tablets: 15-20g (most effective form) 1, 2
  • Provides fastest relief of symptoms within 10-15 minutes
  • Superior to other forms of carbohydrates

Alternative Options (if glucose tablets unavailable):

• Simple dietary sugars (15-20g of carbohydrate) 1:
  • 1 tablespoon table sugar dissolved in water
  • 6-8 oz apple or orange juice
  • 6-8 oz regular (non-diet) soda
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 15-25 jellybeans, gummy bears, or hard candies
  • 1 tablespoon breakfast syrup

Treatment Protocol

1. Consume 15-20g of glucose/carbohydrates
2. Wait 15 minutes and check for symptom improvement
3. Repeat treatment if symptoms persist
4. Once symptoms resolve, consume a balanced meal or snack containing protein to prevent recurrence 1
5. Seek medical attention if symptoms don't improve within 10 minutes of repeated treatment 1

Important Considerations

Effectiveness of Different Forms

• Glucose tablets produce higher blood glucose levels than dietary sugars 2
• Glucose in tablet form raises blood glucose by approximately:
  • 10g raises blood glucose by 40 mg/dl over 30 minutes
  • 20g raises blood glucose by 60 mg/dl over 45 minutes 1
• Blood glucose begins to fall again about 60 minutes after treatment 1

Special Considerations

• Adding protein to carbohydrate treatment is beneficial for preventing subsequent hypoglycemia 1
• Adding fat may delay the acute glycemic response 1
• For children who are awake but unwilling to swallow glucose, a slurry of granulated sugar and water under the tongue may be reasonable 1

Prevention Strategies for Reactive Hypoglycemia

1. Dietary Modifications:

   • Limit refined carbohydrates and high-sugar foods 3, 4
   • Eat smaller, more frequent meals
   • Include protein and healthy fats with carbohydrates to slow absorption
   • Avoid alcohol, which can worsen hypoglycemia 5

2. Meal Planning:

   • Consume complex carbohydrates rather than simple sugars
   • Balance meals with protein, fat, and fiber
   • Avoid long periods without eating

When to Seek Medical Attention

• If symptoms don't improve after two treatments
• If hypoglycemia occurs frequently
• If severe symptoms develop (confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness)
• If you experience recurrent episodes of reactive hypoglycemia 6

Remember that reactive hypoglycemia typically occurs 2-5 hours after meals 3, and proper management includes both immediate treatment of symptoms and long-term dietary adjustments to prevent future episodes.