Hypoglycemia

You should know the signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) such as feeling weak or dizzy, sweating more, noticing sudden changes in your heartbeat, or feeling hungry. If you experience these symptoms, stop exercising and test your blood glucose. If it is 70 or less, eat one of the following right away:
2 or 3 glucose tablets

1/2 cup (4 oz.) of any fruit juice

1/3 cup of a regular (not diet) soft drink

3 average-sized pieces of hard candy

After 15 minutes, test your blood glucose again to find out whether it has returned to a healthier level. Once blood glucose is stable, if it will be at least an hour before your next meal, it's a good idea to eat a snack.

To be safe when you exercise, carry something to treat hypoglycemia, such as glucose tablets or hard candy. Another good idea is to wear a medical identification bracelet or necklace (in case of emergency). Teach your exercise partners the signs of hypoglycemia and what to do about it.

How much should I eat each day?
Have about 1,200 to 1,600 calories a day if you are

a small woman who exercises
a small or medium woman who wants to lose weight
a medium woman who does not exercise much
Choose this many servings from these food groups to have 1,200 to 1,600 calories a day:

6 starches 2 milk and yogurt
3 vegetables 2 meat or meat substitute
2 fruit up to 3 fats

Talk with your diabetes teacher to make a meal plan that fits the way you usually eat, your daily routine, and your diabetes medicines. Then make your own plan.

Have about 1,600 to 2,000 calories a day if you are

a large woman who wants to lose weight
a small man at a healthy weight
a medium man who does not exercise much
a medium to large man who wants to lose weight
Choose this many servings from these food groups to have 1,600 to 2,000 calories a day:

8 starches 2 milk and yogurt
4 vegetables 2 meat or meat substitute
3 fruit up to 4 fats

Talk with your diabetes teacher to make a meal plan that fits the way you usually eat, your daily routine, and your diabetes medicines. Then make your own plan.

Have about 2,000 to 2,400 calories a day if you are

a medium to large man who does a lot of exercise or has a physically active job
a large man at a healthy weight
a large woman who exercises a lot or has a physically active job
Choose this many servings from these food groups to have 2,000 to 2,400 calories a day:

11 starches 2 milk and yogurt
4 vegetables 2 meat or meat substitute
3 fruit up to 5 fats

Talk with your diabetes teacher to make a meal plan that fits the way you usually eat, your daily routine, and your diabetes medicines. Then make your own plan.