Beyond Type Run Race Day is Nov. 2nd

Why You Still Go Low Even When You Do Everything Right

Written by: Daniel Trecroci

6 minute read

September 4, 2025

You count your carbs. You time your insulin. You choose the right foods. You stay active. You follow the plan. And yet, you still go low.

What gives?

It’s confusing. It’s frustrating. And it can feel like failure. But here’s the truth: you’re not doing anything wrong.

Low blood sugars can happen even when your routine is dialed in. This article is here to help you understand:

  • Why those unexpected dips occur.
  • How to prepare for them.
  • Why keeping glucagon nearby isn’t a sign of defeat—it’s a smart, proactive step in your care.

Understanding hypoglycemia: More than just numbers 

Going low means your blood sugar drops below your target range—typically under 70 mg/dl (3.9 mmol/L). 

But it’s not just a number. It’s a feeling. For example, you might get:

  • Dizzy or lightheaded.
  • Sweaty or shaky.
  • Confused or irritable.

In severe cases, you might even pass out. And here’s the kicker: it’s not always about food or insulin. Other common causes for going low include:

That unpredictability is what makes hypoglycemia so hard. 

But knowing that lows can happen—even when you do everything “right”—helps you stay ready, not scared.

Real talk: Why self-blame doesn’t help 

Let’s be honest. It’s easy to feel like you messed up when you go low. 

  • Maybe you had a snack before bed and still woke up shaky. 
  • Maybe you followed your doctor’s advice and still had a scary drop.

Here’s the truth: diabetes is complex. Your body isn’t a math problem. It’s not your fault.

“Hypoglycemia is one of the most emotionally charged parts of diabetes,” says Melanie Batchelor, MHS, RD, LDN, CDCES. “It’s not about failure. It’s about physiology.”

Unexpected lows happen to everyone with diabetes. Blaming yourself doesn’t help. 

What does help is learning, preparing and giving yourself grace.

Patterns vs. perfection: What your data might be telling you

You don’t have to be perfect. But spotting patterns can help you feel more in control.

Try this:

  • Use your CGM or logbook to track when and where lows happen.
  • Look for trends, like lows after workouts or before lunch.
  • Share your notes with your care team.

You don’t need to fix everything at once. Just noticing patterns can help you make small changes that matter.

Calm in the chaos: Rethinking glucagon 

Most people think glucagon is only for emergencies (i.e. when someone passes out and needs help fast). 

But that’s not the whole story.

Glucagon is not the last resort. Instead, it is a reassurance. Today’s glucagon options are designed for real life and include:

  • Auto-injectors.
  • Nasal sprays.
  • No mixing, no panic, no need to be a nurse.

“Glucagon isn’t just for emergencies,” says Batchelor. “It’s a tool for independence. For confidence. For peace of mind.”

Building your low-response toolkit 

Being ready for a low doesn’t have to be scary. It can be empowering.

Here’s what to keep on hand:

  • Fast-acting glucose tabs or gel.
  • Juice boxes or snacks.
  • Glucagon (talk to your doctor about which kind is right for you).

Also:

  • Talk to your family or friends. Let them know what to do if you go low.
  • Write down your plan. Keep it simple.
  • Store your supplies in places you frequent (i.e. your bag, desk, car, nightstand).

When to ask for help

If you’re having frequent lows or feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to ask for help. That’s not a weakness. It’s strength!

Signs you might need to revisit your plan:

  • Lows that wake you up often.
  • Fear of exercising or eating.
  • Feeling anxious about leaving the house.

Talk to your care team. They’re there to support you, not judge you. You deserve care that fits your life.

Final thoughts: You’re doing better than you think 

Managing diabetes is hard work. Every day, you make choices, check numbers and push through. That effort matters.

Lows don’t mean you failed. They mean you’re human. And being prepared—especially with glucagon—can help you feel more confident and safe.

You’re doing better than you think. Keep going. You’ve got this.

 

This content was made possible by Xeris Pharmaceuticals, an active partner of Beyond Type 1. Beyond Type 1 maintains editorial control over its content.

Author

Daniel Trecroci

Daniel Trecroci has been writing about diabetes for over 20 years. As one of the original team members at Diabetes Health, he spent more than a decade as Managing Editor, publishing thousands of articles and helping to establish the outlet as a leading resource for people living with diabetes. He later served as Content Manager for OneTouchGold, Johnson & Johnson/LifeScan’s official digital publication. Under his leadership, OneTouchGold earned the Web Marketing Association’s award for “Best Health & Wellness” website. Daniel has also written for Diabetes Research Institute, dLife, diaTribe, Healthline, CareDx, Pendulum Therapeutics, and Hero Bread.