The Horrors Of Low Blood Sugar And How To Overcome It

Anyone who works out regularly knows that hunger can seriously affect performance. Of course, hunger is just the start of much bigger distractions to your workout. And if it turns to low blood sugar, you’ll have no choice but to stop. Some runners call it ‘the wall’ when they’re running long distances like marathons. There are lots of names for it, but the symptoms are often the same. Sweating, shaking, loss of concentration, and feeling hot are just some of them. Here’s how to deal with low blood sugar and how to overcome it.

If your blood sugar drops, you will feel pretty ill. But if you’re engaged in a serious workout, chances are you’ll miss the cues. You can become pretty ill as well as feeling awful. Dehydration can happen more quickly because you will sweat more. Perhaps the worst part of it is that you can become faint. If you’re lifting weights at the time or using gym equipment, that could become pretty dangerous.

If you’re with a workout buddy, they may notice your face becoming very pale. You might have clammy skin too. You should stop, have some water, and take on a light snack. Rushing for a high sugar drink or candies could make you vomit. You don’t want your blood sugar levels to swing from one extreme to the other! There are several ways you can prevent your blood sugar dropping.

Many of are taking pre-workout supplements. Some of these are thought to help balance the body’s systems to avoid a sugar crash. Ideally, you shouldn’t consume sugar energy drinks or candies before a workout. Other supplements used by weightlifters could be effective in preventing low blood sugar or insulin too. Be sure to eat regularly throughout the day from all the food groups you need for a healthy diet.

If your blood sugar is dipping, you may have to stop your workout. This is a problem if you’re in the middle of a marathon! Sipping a drink that contains glucose could help, but it’s best to try a healthy runner’s drink rather than something very sugary. Replacing fluids is important, so keep sipping as you run if you do suffer from fluctuations in your blood sugar. If you have a condition like diabetes, it’s really important you check with your doctor about the best approach for you. Fluctuations in blood sugar levels could be indicative of much more serious problems like diabetes.

If you have diabetes but still love to run, you will need to ensure you have discussed your workouts and training with your medical specialist. Medication may be necessary to keep you balanced, and regular monitoring is essential. If you are a diabetic and feel your blood sugar levels fluctuating, seek immediate medical attention.

What’re Your Thoughts?

When you feel that awful hunger pang and the sweaty fainting feeling that comes with low blood sugar, it is very unpleasant. For anyone who works out for prolonged periods, it is essential to take preventative action against it happening. Most of us need to snack regularly, so try to fit this in around your training sessions. Stay well.