What Are Normal Blood Sugar Levels? A Guide for Persons with Diabetes

Understanding normal blood sugar levels is crucial for effectively managing diabetes. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with diabetes for years, knowing your target range can help you make informed decisions about diet, exercise, and medication. This guide breaks down what's considered normal, how to monitor your blood sugar, and what to do if your levels are too high or too low. What Is An A1C Test And Why It Matters For Your Health

Why Blood Sugar Levels Matter

Blood sugar, or glucose, is your body's primary source of energy. It comes from the food you eat. In people with diabetes, the body either doesn't produce enough insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or can't effectively use the insulin it produces (Type 2 diabetes). Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose get from the bloodstream into the cells for energy.

Uncontrolled blood sugar can lead to serious health complications, including:

• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Eye damage (retinopathy)
• Foot problems
• Increased risk of infections

Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels can help prevent or delay these complications.

Understanding Normal Blood Sugar Ranges

"Normal" blood sugar ranges can vary depending on whether you have diabetes, your age, and other individual health factors. However, general guidelines exist. The following table provides an overview of target blood sugar levels for adults with diabetes, as recommended by the American Diabetes Association:

Measurement	Target Range for People with Diabetes	Normal Range for People Without Diabetes
Fasting Blood Sugar (before breakfast)	80-130 mg/dL	70-99 mg/dL
2 Hours After Eating (postprandial)	Less than 180 mg/dL	Less than 140 mg/dL
A1C (average blood sugar over 2-3 months)	Less than 7%	Less than 5.7%

It's crucial to remember that these are general guidelines. Your doctor may recommend different target ranges based on your individual health status, age, and specific type of diabetes. Talk to your healthcare provider about what blood sugar levels are right for you.

Understanding the A1C Test

The A1C test is a blood test that provides an average of your blood sugar control over the past 2-3 months. It measures the percentage of your red blood cells that have glucose attached to them. A higher A1C indicates poorer blood sugar control. Many healthcare providers use the A1C as a key metric to assess diabetes management.

How to Monitor Your Blood Sugar

Regular blood sugar monitoring is essential for managing diabetes. There are several ways to monitor your blood sugar:

• Blood Glucose Meter (Glucometer): This is the most common method. You use a lancing device to prick your finger and draw a small drop of blood. You then place the blood on a test strip, which is inserted into the meter. The meter displays your blood sugar level.
• Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM): A CGM is a small device inserted under the skin that continuously tracks your blood sugar levels throughout the day and night. It provides real-time data and alerts you to highs and lows. CGMs are increasingly popular and can offer a more complete picture of your blood sugar trends.
• Urine Tests: While less common now, urine tests can detect the presence of glucose and ketones in your urine. They are less accurate than blood glucose tests.

Tips for Effective Blood Sugar Monitoring:

• Follow Your Doctor's Recommendations: Your doctor will tell you how often to check your blood sugar and when to check it. This schedule may vary depending on your type of diabetes, medication, and lifestyle.
• Keep a Log: Record your blood sugar readings, along with any notes about meals, exercise, or medication changes. This log will help you and your doctor identify patterns and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
• Use a Reliable Meter: Make sure your meter is accurate and properly calibrated. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about choosing a reliable meter.
• Store Supplies Properly: Store test strips in a cool, dry place, as directed on the package.

What to Do If Your Blood Sugar Is Too High (Hyperglycemia)

Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, occurs when your blood glucose levels are above your target range. Symptoms of hyperglycemia include: Are You Making These 4 Blood Sugar Management Mistakes

• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue
• Headache

If you experience these symptoms or your meter reading is consistently high, take action.

• Check Your Blood Sugar More Frequently: Monitor your blood sugar every few hours.
• Drink Plenty of Water: Dehydration can worsen hyperglycemia.
• Adjust Your Insulin or Medication: If you take insulin or oral medications, you may need to adjust your dosage. Consult your doctor or diabetes educator for guidance.
• Exercise Carefully: Exercise can lower blood sugar, but it's important to check your levels before exercising. If your blood sugar is very high, exercise may not be advisable.

If your blood sugar remains high despite these measures, or if you experience severe symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately. This could be a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication of diabetes.

What to Do If Your Blood Sugar Is Too Low (Hypoglycemia)

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, occurs when your blood glucose levels fall below your target range. Symptoms of hypoglycemia can include: The Clear Connection Between Blood Sugar And Weight Loss

• Shakiness
• Sweating
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Hunger
• Irritability
• Rapid heartbeat

Hypoglycemia can be dangerous if left untreated.

• Follow the 15-15 Rule: If your blood sugar is low, eat or drink 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates, such as glucose tablets, fruit juice, or regular (non-diet) soda. Wait 15 minutes and then recheck your blood sugar. If it's still low, repeat the process.
• Carry a Hypoglycemia Kit: Keep a readily available kit with glucose tablets or other fast-acting carbs.
• Educate Family and Friends: Make sure your loved ones know how to recognize the signs of hypoglycemia and how to help you if you become unable to treat it yourself. They should know to administer glucagon if you are unconscious.
• Consider Wearing a Medical Alert Bracelet: This can alert first responders to your diabetes if you are unable to communicate.

If you experience frequent episodes of hypoglycemia, talk to your doctor about adjusting your medication or meal plan.

Lifestyle Factors Affecting Blood Sugar Levels

Many factors can influence your blood sugar levels, including:

• Diet: The type and amount of carbohydrates you eat have a direct impact on your blood sugar. Focus on complex carbohydrates, like whole grains and vegetables, and limit your intake of sugary drinks and processed foods.
• Exercise: Physical activity helps lower blood sugar by increasing insulin sensitivity. Aim for regular exercise, but be sure to monitor your blood sugar levels before, during, and after exercise.
• Medications: Insulin and oral diabetes medications can affect your blood sugar levels. It's crucial to take your medications as prescribed and to understand how they work.
• Stress: Stress hormones can raise blood sugar levels. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature.
• Illness: Being sick can also increase blood sugar levels. Monitor your blood sugar more frequently when you're ill and consult your doctor if you have concerns.
• Alcohol: Alcohol can initially lower blood sugar, but it can also cause it to rise later. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and always eat something with it.
• Sleep: Poor sleep can affect your body's ability to use insulin effectively, leading to higher blood sugar levels. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night.

Working with Your Healthcare Team

Managing normal blood sugar levels with diabetes requires a collaborative effort between you and your healthcare team. This team may include:

• Endocrinologist: A doctor who specializes in diabetes care.
• Primary Care Physician: Your main healthcare provider.
• Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE): A healthcare professional who provides diabetes education and support.
• Registered Dietitian (RD): A nutrition expert who can help you develop a meal plan that meets your needs.
• Pharmacist: A healthcare professional who can answer your questions about your medications.

By working closely with your healthcare team and actively managing your blood sugar, you can live a healthy and fulfilling life with diabetes.

By Aoife M. Egan, M.B., B.Ch., Ph.D.