The laymen’s term for this condition is perhaps more familiar to your ears: low blood sugar. Hypoglycemia takes place when the blood sugar level of your body is depleted and becomes insufficient for providing energy. Are you familiar with the term “sugar rush"? That’s what you get when you eat too much sugar and become hyperactive. Hypoglycemia however leads to the exact opposite.

Let’s talk about alcoholism next.

Alcoholism is an addiction. When left unmanaged and untreated, it can lead to various medical complications that may be life-threatening. Once the body develops an unhealthy craving for alcohol, it’s almost impossible to get rid of. Only absolute determination and willpower, with the help of medical professionals and therapeutic treatment, can the harmful effects of alcoholism be significantly reduced.

How the Two Comes Together

Various studies have provided substantial proof that alcoholism, or excessive drinking of alcohol, can indeed lead to hypoglycemia. There are several instances that the human body is incapable of multi-tasking and imbibing liquor is one of those times. Since your body is almost fully concentrated on breaking down alcohol, the liver is unable to produce as much blood sugar as it should. Without a proper level of glucose in your body, hypoglycemia is often the result.

Can Hypoglycemia Happen Every Time You Drink?

Fortunately, no. Hypoglycemia occurs more often than not when an individual makes the mistake of drinking too much with an empty stomach.

What You Can Do to Prevent Hypoglycemia While or Before Drinking

If you already know beforehand that tonight’s festivities will include getting intoxicated, make sure that you eat a light meal or some snacks before leaving home.

If possible, check your blood sugar level before leaving as well.

Exercise regularly. No one gets sick because of a healthy dose of exercise!

Choose the type of food you eat carefully. While a diet consisting of a wide variety of foods is advisable, make sure however that you eat lots of high-fiber food and less of foods that are high on sugar.

How to Know If You Have Hypoglycemia

Watch out for the following symptoms as they’ll let you know when you’re in danger of passing out because of hypoglycemia: hunger, inexplicable perspiration, feeling nervous, light-headed, or sleepy, and having difficulties speaking.

If You’re a Diabetic Alcoholic

Things are just not looking good for you. To avoid experiencing hypoglycemia in the most inopportune of times, make sure that you’ve consulted your physician about the following: Medication – Is it possible that the medicine you’re taking is the reason why you’re experiencing low blood sugar? When, how often, and how much of it should you take? Diet – Ask for dietary advice regarding food that’s beneficial for a diabetic and an alcoholic. Exercise – Strenuous activity has been known to sometimes cause diabetics to experience hypoglycemia. Ask how often should you exercise and if there should be any limit to how much effort you exert.

Other Possible Causes of Hypoglycemia

If you’re planning to enjoy a merry night with your friends in a place where booze flows freely, make sure that you haven’t recently experienced any of the following conditions:

Serious Illness – People who had recently recovered from a serious ailment in their liver, heart, or kidneys, are still highly vulnerable to experiencing hypoglycemia.

Pregnancy – If you’re pregnant, you’re more likely to experience hypoglycemia.

Lastly, remember that with all things, moderation is the key to success! Don’t drink too much!