Mechanisms of Hypoglycemia

About The Mechanisms of Hypoglycemia

The purpose of this study is to learn more about the causes of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

This study involves coming to the Joslin Diabetes Center for 1 visit. For some participants, there may be an opportunity to take part in a 2nd visit. 

At Visit 1 the following will take place

• Medical history, physical exam, EKG, and laboratory testing.
• A blood sample will be collected for DNA.
• Questionnaires about symptoms and health.
• Providing a stool sample (collected at home) to assess bacteria in the intestine (microbiome).  

If participating, Visit 2 involves

• Following a specific meal plan for 3 days prior to this visit, and arriving fasting.
• Part of the physical examination will be repeated.
• Meal test with a collection of blood samples measuring glucose levels, and a variety of hormones.
• Instructions will be given on glucose monitoring and wearing of a continuous glucose monitoring device for 10 days at home.
• Keeping a log of food, activity, and glucose levels over the same 10 day period while also wearing a FitBit activity tracker. Compensation and parking costs will be provided.

Recruitment

• Ages 18-65
• Individuals who have a diagnosis of low blood sugars and no history of upper gastrointestinal surgery, and no current diagnosis of diabetes or pre-diabetes.
• Individuals who have had gastric bypass and have developed low blood sugars.
• Healthy individuals without a history of surgery (for comparison).