When you have diabetes, keeping track of your blood sugar level is a critical part of managing the condition. Whether you use a fingerstick meter or continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), checking your blood sugar is an essential tool to prevent serious complications related to the disease. But what is a normal blood sugar level, and how often should you check? The answer varies for each person.
Glucose is the sugar that the body uses for energy. It is normally present in the blood, where it helps fuel all cells. Typically, the levels of glucose in the blood are highest before meals and lowest after eating. They rise and fall throughout the day, depending on a number of factors, including food, medication, exercise, stress, illness, and dehydration.
If you have diabetes, it is important to know the typical range of glucose levels for your age. Keeping in mind these typical ranges can help you better understand how certain foods impact your blood sugar level, and how to make changes to maintain healthy levels of glucose.
A normal blood sugar is usually less than 100 mg/dL. The exact number may vary slightly based on the type of diabetes, if you are pregnant, and how long you’ve had the condition. For example, non-pregnant adults with Type 1 diabetes typically have a target goal of 70-140 mg/dL before a meal and 80-130 mg/dL after a meal.
The level of glucose in the blood can be determined by performing a simple test called a glucose tolerance test. This involves drinking a special solution, waiting an hour or so to have your blood drawn, and then determining the blood sugar levels. This test can be used to diagnose diabetes and determine how well you are controlling your condition.
Typically, a blood glucose level of 140 mg/dL or lower is considered normal. Having a glucose level below this range indicates that you are managing your diabetes well. Blood sugar levels above this range may be a sign of a problem with your insulin or blood sugar-lowering medication, or may indicate an infection or illness.
The best way to achieve and maintain a normal glucose level is to work closely with your healthcare provider. Your provider can recommend a specific diet and exercise plan to help you reach your target levels. They can also help you monitor your symptoms and alert you when your blood sugar is high or low, so you can take the appropriate steps to manage it. In addition, they can provide tips and advice on how to cope with different life events that might impact your normal blood glucose level. For example, they can help you determine how much physical activity is needed to maintain your target glucose level, and what types of activities might affect your blood sugar level. They can also advise you on which medications, if any, to take if your blood sugar is high or low. They can also help you find support groups and coaches to keep you motivated.