Can people with hypoglycemia eat mutton?

Written by Li Lang Bo
Endocrinology
Updated on December 23, 2024
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The definition of hypoglycemia is when the blood glucose level is monitored to be less than 2.8 mmol/L, or less than 3.9 mmol/L for diabetics, accompanied by symptoms such as palpitations, cold sweats, hunger, and dizziness. These symptoms can be alleviated after eating, especially after consuming sugar water, and this condition is then referred to as hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is classified into mild, moderate, and severe degrees. For mild hypoglycemia, with only mild symptoms, it is acceptable to eat lamb, beef, pork, or consume sugar. However, in cases of more severe hypoglycemia, where there are changes in consciousness or symptoms like somnolence, eating meat may not be quick enough. The most recommended treatment is to drink sugar water directly or to administer glucose intravenously to correct the blood sugar rapidly. This is because eating lamb, which is protein, requires digestion and absorption, and raises blood sugar levels more slowly. In cases of severe hypoglycemia, the most direct treatments are drinking sugar water or administering it intravenously.

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Hypoglycemia emergency treatment procedure

Typically, when we consider a patient might have hypoglycemia, we follow the standard diagnostic procedures. First, we measure the patient's blood sugar level; if it is below 2.8 mmol/L, there is a high likelihood of hypoglycemia. Symptoms may include palpitations, dizziness, pale complexion, lack of concentration, lethargy, or even coma. Immediate action would involve giving the patient oral glucose solution or administrating glucose intravenously, followed by monitoring the patient’s clinical symptoms and blood sugar levels. If the patient's condition significantly improves after glucose provision, we can diagnose them with hypoglycemia. This is also a critical emergency procedure for hypoglycemia, which entails timely glucose supplementation. If the patient has recurrent hypoglycemia episodes, further detailed examinations should be conducted.

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Does low blood sugar cause confusion?

When hypoglycemia occurs, it is possible to experience confusion. This is because, under normal conditions, the glucose level in our brain tissue is only about 25% of that in our blood. After hypoglycemia occurs, the glucose concentration in our brain tissue will further decrease, leading to a state of sugar and oxygen deprivation in the brain. Severe cases can exhibit a range of neuropsychiatric symptoms such as behavioral changes and confusion, cognitive dysfunction, or even epileptic seizures. Some patients may also experience coma and permanent brain damage, typically seen in those with severe and prolonged hypoglycemia. Similarly, patients who repeatedly experience hypoglycemia often also suffer from brain atrophy. Therefore, confusion can occur during hypoglycemia.

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How to Treat Hypoglycemia

If the patient is experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, cold sweats, and feelings of hunger, but is mentally clear, it is suggested to promptly eat foods like candy or chocolate that can rapidly increase blood sugar levels. However, if the patient's hypoglycemia isn’t fully corrected and leads to unconsciousness, then it is critical to immediately call emergency services (dial 120). Upon their arrival, a micro blood sugar test should be conducted. Secondly, an injection of 50% glucose can be administered intravenously to correct the hypoglycemia. Thus, preventing hypoglycemia is very important.

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Can people with hypoglycemia eat meat?

Hypoglycemia refers to a condition where the concentration of glucose in the plasma is too low, below 2.8mmol/L, which is termed hypoglycemia. During hypoglycemia, it is first necessary to quickly replenish glucose to increase the concentration of glucose in the blood and alleviate the symptoms of hypoglycemia. During hypoglycemia, it is best to first eat sugary foods, such as sugar water, chocolate, cookies, fruit juice, etc., which can quickly increase low blood sugar. Eating meat can also improve symptoms of hypoglycemia, but since meat takes longer to be digested and converted into blood glucose by the stomach, it does not quickly relieve symptoms of hypoglycemia. It is best to eat sugar during hypoglycemia, although meat can also be consumed.

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How is hypoglycemia treated?

The treatment for hypoglycemia is relatively simple; in most cases, it involves immediate consumption of sugar water to replenish energy, which can significantly alleviate the symptoms of hypoglycemia. If it is an occasional, single occurrence of hypoglycemia, normal status can be restored after replenishing energy. However, if hypoglycemia occurs repeatedly, it is necessary to seek timely medical treatment at a hospital to rule out some common diseases that cause hypoglycemia.