Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: A Brief Guide
Knowing your blood sugar (glucose) levels and how they change helps you manage diabetes effectively. Below is a clear, practical overview of what the numbers mean and how to work with your healthcare team to stay on track.
📊 Key Measurements – What’s Considered “Normal”
• Fasting Blood Sugar (before eating)
- If you don’t have diabetes: ~ 70–99 mg/dL (3.9–5.5 mmol/L)
- For many adults with diabetes: ~ 80–130 mg/dL (4.4–7.2 mmol/L)
Diabetes Self-Management
• After-Meal Blood Sugar (1–2 hours after beginning a meal)
- Without diabetes: less than ~140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)
- With diabetes: often less than ~180 mg/dL (10.0 mmol/L)
Diabetes Self-Management
• Hemoglobin A1C (average glucose over ~3 months)
- Without diabetes: less than ~5.7%
- With diabetes: many aim for less than ~7.0% (though goals vary)
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer:
The information provided here regarding blood glucose and hemoglobin A1C ranges is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Target glucose and A1C levels should be determined based on a patient’s individual medical history, current health status, and healthcare provider’s guidance.
Patients should not adjust medication, diet, or diabetes management strategies based solely on this information. Always consult with your physician, endocrinologist, or diabetes care team for personalized medical advice and treatment plans.
Why These Numbers Matter
- These levels help tell how well your body handles glucose, and how well your treatment plan is working.
- If your numbers are consistently out of range, it may signal the need to adjust food, activity, or medications.
- Your individual targets may differ based on age, health conditions, risk of low blood sugar, and length of time you’ve had diabetes.
What You Can Do
- Track your readings: write down date, time, meter reading, food eaten, activity, and how you feel.
- Look for patterns: Are your numbers always high after breakfast? Low in the afternoon?
- Talk to your care team: Share your logs and ask:
- “Are my targets right for me?”
- “What can I change if I’m often above/below my goal?”
- Small changes add up: Adjust carbs, portion sizes, meal timing, or the timing of medications with guidance.
- Be mindful of risk signals: If you’re often running high OR low, or feeling unwell, check with your provider.
⚠️ Safety Reminder
- Home glucose meters give valuable insight—but do not substitute for lab testing and professional care.
- If you experience very low/very high readings, severe symptoms, or sudden changes, contact your care team or emergency services immediately.
- Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.
🌿 Key Takeaways
- Understand your personal target range—it may differ from standard values.
- Consistent tracking + pattern review + communication = better glucose control.
- Your numbers are a tool—not a judgment. Use them to guide conversations and adjustments.
- Stay proactive, stay aware, and let your care team help you tailor your plan.
Sources:
- https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/managing-diabetes/blood-glucose-management/blood-sugar-chart/