In children, normal blood glucose should be greater than what value to avoid hypoglycemia?

• A. 45 mg/dL
• B. 70 mg/dL
• C. 60 mg/dL
• D. 80 mg/dL

Answer: (C)

In children, the brain depends on glucose, so when blood sugar falls below a certain point, neuroglycopenia can occur and symptoms or seizures may develop. The commonly used pediatric threshold for hypoglycemia is 60 mg/dL; keeping glucose above this level helps prevent brain energy failure. Normal fasting values in kids are typically around 70–100 mg/dL, but symptoms and danger usually start when glucose dips below 60. Neonates have a lower threshold (around 45 mg/dL) due to immature metabolism, so that value isn’t used for older children. Values like 70 or 80 mg/dL aren’t the established hypoglycemia cut-off in pediatric practice, making 60 mg/dL the best target to avoid hypoglycemia.