Can Lack Of Food Cause A Blackout?

Posted on Sat, 2 Jun 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 2 Jun 2018 Answered on

Wed, 3 Feb 2021 Last reviewed on

Question : Can lack of food cause a blackout? I ate a small lunch about 11;30. I went to dinner about 6:30 at a restaurant. Due to some mix up in the kitchen they did not serve me until about 8:30. About 8:10 I stood up and, went to the kitchen door, the door swung open fast and a server came barreling out . I then blacked out for about 10 minutes. I am told I spoke and got back to the table. but I do not remember anything. What might have happened to me to black out?

Answered by Dr. Ramesh Kumar (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Probably a episode of hypoglycemia.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Very likely you had an episode of hypoglycemia.
Hypoglycemia occurs when blood glucose levels fall below 4 mmol/L (72mg/dL).Glucose is the main energy source for your body, but it can't enter the cells of most of your tissues without the help of insulin — a hormone secreted by your pancreas. When glucose levels rise, certain cells (beta cells) in your pancreas release insulin. This allows glucose to enter the cells and provide the fuel your cells need to function properly. Any extra glucose is stored in your liver and muscles in the form of glycogen.Fat can be used by body as reserve energy source but our brain can only use glucose.Being in a fasting state for long time may cause syncope.
Thanks.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng