Question: I know diabetes is when blood sugar gets too high. But can blood sugar be too low?
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Yes. Blood sugars under 60 are unusual. If your levels are this low, you should be evaluated to determine why.
Some drugs can cause low blood sugar, so be alert to possible drug effects here. Low blood sugar can occur when meals stimulate excessive insulin secretion or as a result of insulin resistance. Sometimes hypoglycemia is seen in conjunction with other disorders of metabolism such as those involving the thyroid, adrenal glands, or pancreas. A tumor of the pancreas can also lead to abnormal blood sugar levels.
A five-hour glucose tolerance test will often help determine the severity of hypoglycemia. Treatment often involves smaller, more frequent meals and addressing other underlying disorders if they are present.
© 2026 NewsmaxHealth. All rights reserved.