How do I treat a low blood sugar?

Treating severe hypoglycemia (blood sugar below 70 mg/dL) requires fast-acting carbohydrates that your body can absorb immediately. The medical standard for safely resolving a low is the 15-15 Rule. Step one: consume exactly 15 grams of simple, fast-acting carbohydrates. This could be four glucose tablets, four ounces (half a cup) of fruit juice or regular soda, or one tablespoon of honey. Avoid treating lows with chocolate or baked goods, as the high fat content severely slows down sugar absorption. Step two: set a timer and wait exactly 15 minutes. During this time, sit down and rest. Step three: retest your blood sugar. If your reading is still below 70 mg/dL, repeat the process by consuming another 15 grams of fast-acting carbs and waiting another 15 minutes. Once your blood sugar is back in a safe range, you need to eat a small, balanced snack containing complex carbohydrates and protein—like half a sandwich or an apple with peanut butter—to stabilize your levels and prevent them from crashing again an hour later.