Final answer:
The state of blood glucose crisis described by 'cold and clammy' is hypoglycemia, where blood sugar levels are too low. Hypoglycemia can happen during the postabsorptive state or in individuals with diabetes, and it requires a quick source of sugar to correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase 'Cold and clammy ... needs some candy' is often taught to help people recognize symptoms of hypoglycemia, a state of low blood glucose (sugar) levels. Hypoglycemia can be a crisis in individuals with diabetes who are unable to process glucose properly and may depend on other sources of fuel. Symptoms such as being cold and clammy indicate that the body is directing blood flow away from the skin and extremities to maintain core body temperature, consistent with a stress response to cold or a drop in blood sugar. When someone experiences hypoglycemia, they might need a quick source of sugar, like candy, to raise their blood glucose levels back to a safe range.
The postabsorptive, or fasting state, is when the body has to rely on stored glycogen after food has been digested, absorbed, and stored. Blood glucose levels begin to drop, and in response, glucagon is released to maintain blood glucose levels within the normal range. Understanding the body's response to low blood glucose, such as during the postabsorptive state or in the case of a person who has diabetes, is crucial to recognizing and treating hypoglycemia effectively.