What are the normal blood sugar levels for adults with diabetes according to age? How can blood sugar levels be managed and diabetes reversed? Find the answers in this comprehensive article.

Understanding Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetes

The amount of glucose (“sugar” expressed in mg/dL) present in the blood fluctuates during the day and at night. Our body maintains a level of blood glucose for metabolism. The normal sugar level in a healthy body is between 90 to 100 mg/dL. However, these blood sugar levels may go high or low due to various factors, which can be signs of health conditions that require attention.

Why Do Blood Glucose Levels Rise in Diabetes?

The food we eat is converted to glucose and released into the bloodstream. This causes blood sugar levels to increase after eating. In a healthy body, the pancreas releases insulin to help the body’s cells absorb the glucose, bringing the blood sugar level back to normal. But in the case of diabetes, the body becomes insulin resistant or there is insulin deficiency, causing the body’s cells to not absorb the blood glucose. This results in high blood glucose levels, leading to diabetes and related health problems.

Maintaining Healthy Blood Sugar Levels

To maintain healthy blood sugar levels, it is essential for those with diabetes to monitor their readings and follow a lifestyle that aids in the reversal of diabetes. This includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, proper stress management, and guidance from certified diabetes reversal coaches. By making the right changes, many people have successfully reversed their diabetes.

Normal Sugar Levels for Healthy Adults

A normal blood sugar range for a healthy adult (male or female) after 8 hours of fasting is >70 mg/dL and <100 mg/dL. A normal sugar level in a healthy person after 2 hours of eating is between 90 to 100 mg/dL.

Factors Affecting Blood Sugar Levels

Various factors can impact blood sugar levels, including the type and quantity of food consumed, physical activity, certain medicines, medical conditions, alcohol consumption, smoking, age, and stress. Understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

Blood Sugar Levels by Age

Diabetes is a common health condition that becomes more prevalent with age. As we grow older, insulin tolerance decreases, increasing the chances of developing diabetes. Monitoring blood sugar levels and making lifestyle changes becomes even more important as we age to prevent or manage diabetes.

Reversing Diabetes with the Right Guidance

With the right changes in eating habits, exercise, sleep patterns, and stress management, many people have successfully reversed their diabetes. Connecting with certified diabetes reversal coaches can provide the guidance and support needed to achieve this goal and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

What is the normal blood sugar level for a healthy adult?

The normal blood sugar range for a healthy adult (male or female) after 8 hours of fasting is >70 mg/dL and <100 mg/dL. After 2 hours of eating, the normal sugar level in a healthy person is between 90 to 100 mg/dL.

How can blood sugar levels be managed in diabetes?

Blood sugar levels in diabetes can be managed through a combination of a healthy diet, regular exercise, proper stress management, and guidance from certified diabetes reversal coaches. By making the right lifestyle changes, many people have successfully reversed their diabetes and maintained healthy blood sugar levels.

What are the factors that affect blood sugar levels?

Several factors can impact blood sugar levels, including the type and quantity of food consumed, physical activity, certain medicines, medical conditions, alcohol consumption, smoking, age, and stress. Understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

How does age affect the risk of diabetes?

As we grow older, insulin tolerance decreases, increasing the chances of developing diabetes. Monitoring blood sugar levels and making lifestyle changes becomes even more important as we age to prevent or manage diabetes.

What is the role of certified diabetes reversal coaches in managing blood sugar levels?

Certified diabetes reversal coaches can provide the guidance and support needed to achieve the goal of reversing diabetes and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. They help individuals make the right changes in their eating habits, exercise, sleep patterns, and stress management to successfully reverse their diabetes.

How can blood sugar levels be kept at healthy levels?

Blood sugar levels can be kept at healthy levels through a combination of a balanced diet, regular exercise, proper stress management, and guidance from certified diabetes reversal coaches. By making the right lifestyle changes, many people have been able to reverse their diabetes and maintain normal blood sugar readings.

What are the benefits of reversing diabetes?

Reversing diabetes can provide numerous benefits, including improved overall health, reduced risk of complications like nerve damage, kidney disease, and heart problems, increased energy levels, and better quality of life. With the right guidance and lifestyle changes, it is possible to achieve and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Chart of Normal Blood Sugar Levels for Adults With Diabetes Age Wise

Last updated on September 3rd, 2022

The amount of glucose (“sugar” expressed in mg/dL) present in blood fluctuates during the day and at night. Our body maintains a level of blood glucose for metabolism. The normal sugar level in a healthy body is between 90 to 100 mg/dL. But sometimes, these blood sugar levels may go high or low due to various factors. Such high or low blood glucose levels are signs of health conditions that need/ require attention and blood glucose can be kept at healthy levels with various Diabetes Reversal Methods and medical attention. This article gives in-depth information about normal blood sugar levels chart for adults (men or women) with diabetes according to age.

Table of Contents

Why Does Blood Glucose Level Rise in Diabetes?

The food we eat is converted to glucose and released into the bloodstream. Therefore, blood sugar levels are high after eating. The increase in glucose level signals our pancreas to release insulin.

Insulin helps our body cells to absorb glucose. As a result, blood glucose level goes down / becomes normal again. This process of cell absorption helps in regulating/maintaining normal blood glucose levels.

But in the case of diabetes, our body becomes insulin resistant, or there is insulin deficiency. Due to this our body cells do not absorb blood glucose, resulting in high blood glucose levels, thus causing Diabetes which comes with health problems like thyroid, stress, loss of muscle weight, acidity, insomnia, low energy level, etc. Over a period of time, such high blood glucose levels can cause damage to nerves, kidneys, eyes, and heart. With the right changes in your habits of eating, exercising, sleeping patterns, and stress management we have seen more than 10.000 patients reversing their diabetes. Get started with your diabetes reversal journey, connect with top diabetes experts now.

Therefore if you have diabetes, it is essential to maintain your blood sugar readings at some typical acceptable values, which can be attained by having a healthy lifestyle that will aid the reversal of diabetes and following a sustainable diet plan that you can follow which includes staple food, easily available in your kitchen and does not include supplements.

Women showing normal sugar levels in the glucometer

Summary

Blood glucose levels, if high, cause diabetes. Blood sugar level charts can help in regular monitoring of blood glucose levels. And right guidance from Certified Diabetes Reversal Coaches can help you bring your blood sugar level back to normal with the right method & step by step guidance.

Normal Sugar Level in Healthy Individuals (Fasting & After Food)

Blood glucose levels, also known as blood sugar levels, can be normal, high, or low. The sugar levels are generally measured after 8 hours of eating.

A normal blood sugar range for a healthy adult (male or female) after 8 hours of fasting is >70 mg/dL. and < 100 mg/dL.

While a normal sugar level in a healthy person after 2 hours of eating is between 90 to 100 mg/dL.

Blood glucose levels change throughout the day. Major factors affecting such change in the blood glucose levels are as follows:

1. The Variety of food we consume can impact blood sugar levels. For example, if we eat rich carb food, and high-calorie food, the blood glucose readings might increase.
2. The Quantity of food also affects our normal sugar level reading. Eating too much may increase sugar levels.
3. Physical activities impact glucose levels. For example, heavy and rigorous work may decrease blood sugar levels, whereas no or less physical activity may increase blood glucose levels. People who succeed in reversing their diabetes get constant support and motivation from Diabetes Reversal Coach. These experts help you decide how much and what type of exercise is needed to maintain your normal blood sugar levels.
4. Certain medicines disturb blood glucose levels.
5. Medical conditions like hypoglycemia, diabetes, and liver disease may cause changes in normal sugar levels.
6. Alcohol consumption can cause our good sugar level reading to drop.
7. Smoking can lead to Type 2 Diabetes
8. Age Matters! insulin tolerance decreases with age, thus increasing the chances of Diabetes
9. Stress – Physical or Mental, can spike your normal blood sugar level.
10. Dehydration can result in low blood glucose levels.

Most of these problems can be solved by making sure you are in the right environment, with the right guidance, and doing it with other diabetic patients who are also on a similar journey as you to reverse their diabetes.

Summary

A normal sugar level in the human body and those who have successfully reversed their diabetes is between 90 to 110 mg/dL.

Blood Sugar Levels Chart By AgeWise

Diabetes is a condition when normal blood sugar levels are high. But sometimes, the blood glucose levels may fall below the normal level. Thus, for diabetic patients, the sugar levels shall vary in the day and with age. Below is the detailed sugar level chart age-wise for diabetic patients.

Normal Sugar Level in Children & Teens Who are Diabetic

Normal Blood Sugar Levels in Children with Diabetes According to Age

1. Children at the age of 6 should have blood glucose levels in the range of 80 to 200 mg/dL.
2. The sugar levels in children vary from the time they get up to the time they have taken their meals. Thus, regular monitoring of their normal blood sugar level is essential.
3. Especially if your child has complaints of hypoglycemia in the middle of the night, a blood sugar test is essential
4. For kids aged 6 to 12, the healthy range of blood sugar levels is between 80 to180 mg/dL. However, at this age, it is found that normal sugar reading increase after meals. Therefore, it is essential to limit their snack intake before sleep to ensure healthy blood glucose levels at bedtime.
5. For teens, healthy blood sugar levels are between 70 mg/dL to 150 mg/dL. Heredity could be one reason for irregular blood glucose levels in teens. The critical challenge in managing healthy blood sugar levels in teens is their stress, mood swing, and lifestyle issues, but regulating sugar levels in teens is possible through implanting good eating, sleeping habits, and other lifestyle modifications at the right age, which can be easily followed for life. A little Push and Motivation are all that is needed.
6. Alarming blood sugar levels in children that require medical attention are < 70 mg/dL and > 180 mg/dL.

Summary

In diabetic children, the healthy blood sugar levels are between 70 to 180 mg/dL. And it is important to make sure they follow the right diet and lifestyle to make sure diabetic-related complications don’t increase with age.

Normal Blood Sugar Levels Chart for Diabetic Adults Age Wise (Before and After Food)

Random Blood Sugar Level Chart

Random blood sugar testing is done at any time of the day. This test is done outside the regular testing timetable. It confirms diabetes, during and after the treatment of diabetes. A level of 200 mg/dl or greater indicates diabetes mellitus.

The major objective of an RBS test is to check random blood sugar levels. An Random Blood Sugar range of 200mg/dl or above clearly shows the presence of diabetes. The test helps to timely treat the disease via monitoring during and after treatment. The random blood sugar level test is recommended if an individual complains of the following signs:

• Hazy vision
• Unplanned Weight loss
• Dry mouth and dehydration
• Slow wound healing
• Recurrent urination

Healthy Normal Sugar Levels in Diabetic Adults (Men or Women)

1. In diabetic patients above 20 years of age, blood sugar level remains between 100 to 180 mg/dL throughout the day.
2. The fasting glucose range should be between 70 to 100 mg/dL to avoid diabetic complications.
3. At bedtime blood, sugar levels should be between 100 to140 mg/dL to avoid any diabetic complications.
4. The blood glucose levels chart for women shows the normal blood sugar level readings should be between 100 to 140 mg/dL at bedtime. It should be >70 and <100mg/dL after fasting.
5. In diabetic pregnant women, the blood sugar readings should be a little tighter, between 70 to 89 mg/dL after fasting. They should regularly monitor their glucose levels to avoid delivery-related complications.

Summary

Healthy diabetic adults should maintain a normal sugar level of 70 to 130 mg/dL before meals and less than 180 mg/dL after 2 hours of meals. Pregnant women should maintain a blood glucose level of 95-140 mg/dL to avoid complications. This can be done with the right habits in place that help you maintain your sugar level without getting stressed about it.

High and Low Blood Sugar Levels With Diabetes in Adults

The chart below shows the dangerous level of blood glucose for diabetic patients. Red levels are indicators that require emergency treatment, while yellow levels indicate medical attention but not an emergency. So, it is clear that sugar levels greater than 250 mg/dl could be dangerous. It is recommended that you need to consult with the doctor immediately.

Also Check: Best Glucometers in India for 2022

High Sugar Levels Range in Adults (Men or Women)

1. Blood sugar levels above 250mg/dL are considered very high. Therefore, it requires immediate medical treatment. In addition, it is recommended to have a ketones test done.
2. Blood glucose levels between 180 to250 mg/dL are considered high. Therefore, it may require insulin therapy and proper medication to control the high level.

Low Sugar Levels Range in Adults (Men or Women)

1. A blood Sugar Level between 71 to 90mg/dL is considered a low sugar level. Therefore, a proper diet intake like 15gm of raisins could help in raising the sugar levels.
2. When blood sugar levels are below 70 and fall below 50mg/dL, it is a critical situation and requires emergency treatment for hypoglycemia.

Summary

High blood sugar range is between 180 to 250 mg/dL, while below 70 mg/dl is low. Above 250 mg/dL and under 50 mg/dL requires immediate medical attention.

Low Blood Sugar Levels Symptoms and Remedies

Symptoms of Low Sugar Level

Low blood sugar condition or Hypoglycemia occurs when blood glucose levels fall below 70 mg/DL.

Fluctuation in blood sugar levels may be due to the following factors:

1. Diabetes
2. Medicine effects
3. Not eating food properly (Quantity and Quality)
4. Endocrine disorders
5. Liver or heart diseases
6. Alcohol consumption
7. Pregnancy

Low sugar levels, when left untreated, can be dangerous. If the levels are below 50 mg/dL, it is critical and requires immediate medical treatment. Some of the common symptoms of low sugar condition are:

1. Feeling dizzy and having confusion
2. Experiencing shakiness/tingling sensation in body or hand or limbs
3. Light-headedness
4. Nervousness and irritative behaviour
5. Anxiety and stress
6. Chills and sweating
7. Fast heart rates
8. Fainting

It is possible to eliminate these symptoms with the right guidance from certified diabetes reversal coaches who understand your routine and current lifestyle and help you with diet and lifestyle changes that can be easily done by you. These small changes lead to a drastic impact on your blood sugar levels and help you reverse your diabetes.

Every diabetic person must be aware of how to keep up the normal sugar levels. This can be done by controlling blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Breathe Well-being is here to get you going. Above 50% of diabetic patients have reversed their diabetes type 2 after losing just 22 pounds of weight. These outstanding results reveal that with the appropriate diet and lifestyle adjustments, reaching a non-diabetic state is expected and that too within 6 months. This is very inspiring, isn’t it? Book your consultation now with an experienced diabetes consultant to get an overview of diabetes risk.

Also Read: Indian Diet Chart for Diabetic Patients

Remedies For Low Sugar Levels

If you experience any low sugar symptoms, immediately test your blood glucose levels. For levels between 60 to 80 mg/dL, consume 15 grams of fast-acting carbs. Repeat the test after 15 minutes and eat till sugar levels settle to normal.

But if the levels are below 50 mg/dL and if the patient is conscious and able to eat, give 15 gm. of fast-acting carbs. But if the patient is unable to speak, don’t give him anything to eat. Call emergency services immediately. If possible, administer glucagon via injection.

Chart showing levels of sugar i.e excellent, good, or action suggested

High Blood Sugar Levels Symptoms and Remedies

Symptoms of High Sugar Level

When blood sugar levels are high above the normal > 180mg/dL, it can be again dangerous and requires medical attention. This condition, also known as hyperglycemia, occurs when the body has insulin deficiency or cannot use it properly.

Some of the common symptoms of high blood sugar levels are:

1. Experiencing fatigue
2. Unusual thirst
3. Frequent urination
4. Headache and difficulty concentrating
5. Blurred vision
6. Unusual weight loss

If left untreated, hyperglycemia can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, which is a life-threatening disease. Moreover, it can also cause heart complications, kidney-related problems, and liver disorders.

Also Read:  Triglyceride Level Chart For Adults

Remedies for High Sugar Level

If the blood sugar level is between 180 to250 mg/dL, seek medical advice and take medicines. Cut off a fast-acting carb diet. Don’t take processed food and sugary items.

If the blood sugar level is> 250 mg/dL, you need immediate medical attention. If left untreated, it can lead to coma and high ketones in the blood. So test for ketones and get insulin therapy as soon as possible.

If you experience high sugar levels on regular basis, you are advised to do the following:

1. Maintain a low sugar food diet with a low glycaemic index.
2. Don’t eat processed foods and fruit juices.
3. Do mild exercises and maintain a healthy lifestyle
4. Consult healthcare experts to get appropriate insulin dosages
5. Take medicines on time
6. Monitor your glucose levels regularly

Many diabetic patients are aware of the changes they need to make in their diet or daily routine but are not able to follow them due to various reasons. Lack of motivation and proper knowledge is the most common reasons. A constant push from a diabetes reversal coach along with the guidance of a Diabetologist can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Also Read: HbA1c Levels

Bottom Line

Blood glucose levels can go high or low, depending on your medical condition. A blood sugar level chart is the easiest way to learn about these levels. But get professional advice from an endocrinologist about your blood sugar level and the reasons for their variations.

If you have diabetes, remember to monitor your blood glucose level and keep them to normal levels. In this way, you can avoid the complications of diabetes and lead an everyday life.

Blood Sugar can be kept at healthy levels with the diabetes reversal method by making changes in diet, exercise, and lifestyle, step by step. 10000+ patients have already benefited from our clinically proven method and have been able to reduce or completely eliminate their dependency on medications.

Also Read: How to Use Glucometer?

FAQs:

What is a normal blood sugar level after fasting for 8 hours?

Last updated on May 17th, 2022

A normal sugar level for adults, who are non-diabetic, and who have fasted for at least 8 hours must be below 100 mg/dL. You can blood sugar range for non-diabetic from the above chart.

What is a good fasting blood sugar level?

Last updated on May 9th, 2022

The fasting blood sugar levels for non-diabetics and diabetics are stated in the table below:

What is normal sugar level by age?

Last updated on May 9th, 2022

Is blood sugar of 135 high before eating?

Blood sugar level below 100 mg/dL is considered normal. Sugar levels between 110 and 125 mg/dL means prediabetes or an impaired fasting sugar. Also, levels above 126 mg/dL is considered diabetes.

What is normal sugar level before food?

Blood sugar target prior to eating food should be between 80 and 130 mg/dL.

What is normal sugar level India?

A glucose level below 140 mg/dL is considered normal. Reading above 200 mg/dL after 2 hours shows diabetes. Readings in the range of 140 to 199 mg/dL shows prediabetes.

What is a good blood sugar level in the morning?

Last updated on May 17th, 2022

It is better to keep the blood sugar readings in the range of 70-130 mg/dL in the morning prior to breakfast. Also, the glucose levels must be between 70-180 mg/dL at other times.

Is 135 blood sugar high in the morning?

Last updated on May 17th, 2022

A normal glucose level after consuming is between 135 and 140 mg/dl. These differences in the levels of blood glucose, both prior to and after meals are normal as well as reflect the way absorption and storage of sugar occurs. Obviously, 135 mg/dl falls in the range of high blood sugar levels.

Is fasting sugar 110 normal?

Last updated on May 17th, 2022

The normal fasting sugar level is under 100 mg/dl. An individual experiencing prediabetes has a fasting sugar level in the range of 100-125 mg/dl. If the fasting sugar level is 126 mg/dl or above, an individual is said to be diabetic. A fasting glucose level between 110 and 125 comes under the range of prediabetes. Below 110 is normal and higher than 126 is diabetes.

What is the best time to check your blood sugar level?

Last updated on May 17th, 2022

The most common times for checking the sugar level include when you first get up (fasting), prior to consuming food, 2 hours after a meal, as well as at bedtime.

What is the normal sugar level after food?

Last updated on May 17th, 2022

The normal sugar level ranges for a non-diabetic as per the ADA:

• Fasting blood glucose (in the morning, prior to consuming anything): below 100 mg/dL
• One hour following a meal: 90 to 130 mg/dL
• Two hours after a meal: 90 to 110 mg/dL

What is the normal sugar level for non-diabetic?

Last updated on May 17th, 2022

For managing post-meal sugar levels, non-diabetic individuals must have a sugar level of not more than 140 mg/dl post-meals, and glucose must return to pre-meal levels within two to three hours.

What blood sugar should you go to the hospital for?

Last updated on May 17th, 2022

Sugar level more than 140 mg/dl requires hospitalization. The levels of blood sugar that are considerably and persistently above this level need reevaluating the treatment.

Is 200 blood sugar normal after eating?

Post eating blood glucose (two hours) is normal only when the level is below 140 mg/dl. Any reading ranging from 140 to 200 mg/dl is considered as prediabetes as well as lifestyle alterations including diet and exercise should be initiated. Sugar levels more than 200 mg/dl is considered as diabetes which requires medicines together with lifestyle changes.

How soon after waking up should I test my blood sugar?

Discuss with your healthcare provider to prepare a timetable for testing your blood glucose levels. Factors to be considered while planning the schedule involve the medications you consume, when you eat as well as how regulated your glucose levels are. Many diabetics find that it acts appropriately for them to check blood glucose initially in the morning, however discuss with a doctor to find out what’s best for you.

What is the normal blood sugar level for 5 year old child?

The blood glucose levels for a kid of 5 years should be within the range of 80 to 200 mg/dL throughout the day. Fasting levels should be between 80 to 180 mg/dL, bedtime levels should be within 110 to 200 mg/dL.

Is150 a high blood sugar level?

If your blood glucose levels are 150 mg/dL after 1 to 2 hours after eating then it is normal. But if the blood glucose levels are 150 mg/dL before meals then the levels are slighlty high. In such case try to drink plenty of water and eat foods that have low glycemic index values like non-starchy vegetables, Beans, Cuccumber, strawberries, black berries etc.

What is the highest blood sugar level that is safe?

For a diabetic individual blood sugar levels between 160 to 240mg/dl is highest sugar levels that is safe.
Normal blood sugar level for any individual before meals is between 80 to130 mg/dL. After 1-2 hours of meal it should be less than 180 mg/dL.

What should blood sugar be at bedtime?

For a non-diabetic adult the bedtime sugar levels should be between 100 to 140 mg/dL. For diabetic patients the normal blood sugar levles at bedtime should be between 90 to 150 mg/dL.

What is a normal sugar level for a man?

Last updated on May 17th, 2022

The normal sugar level for a man without diabetes should be between 90 to 110 mg/dL. sugar normal level for a man with diabetes should be between 80 to 130mg/dL before meals.

Is 139 high for blood sugar?

If your blood sugar levles are 139 mg/dL before meals, they are slightly high. Drinking plenty of water and a very mild excercise can help in reducing it. Eat low sugar and low glycemic index diet. But if your sugar levels are 139 mg/dL after 1 to 2 hours of meals or at bedtime, then it is normal.

what level of blood sugar is dangerous?

Generally sugar levels above 250 mg/dL are regarded as very high. But bllod sugar levles above 300 mg/dL can be dangerous. If consecutive two readings show your blood sugar levels above 300 mg/dL consult doctor immediately.

When in the day is blood sugar level high?

Fasting blood sugars are high. In the morning, blood sugar levels are high since the blood levels are calculated after a night sleep, i.e. after a night fast. Then the sugar levels are high after you eat something.

For a diabetic patient, what are the three medical emergencies?

The three diabetic emergencies are:

1. When the blood sugar levels are <60mg/dL, i.e. Hypoglycemia Hyperglycemia
2. when blood sugar levels are >200 mg/dL
3. When ketones are very high.

What is an unsafe blood level in the A1C test?

 If the value of the A1C test is 5.7%, it is normal. If the value is between 5.7 to 6.4%, it is a prediabetic condition. 

Levels between 6 to 6.8% are a sign of controlled diabetes. 

But if the levels are > 7%, it is unsafe and a sign of uncontrolled diabetes .

References:

1. Diabetes Tests. Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/getting-tested.html

Last Updated on September 3, 2022 by Dr. Damanjit Duggal 

What Should Glucose Levels Be After Eating?

Your glucose levels should generally be 140 to 180 mg/dL after eating. But they can rise higher depending on many other factors, including your age and what food or drink you’ve consumed.

The foods and drinks you consume can make your glucose levels rise quickly or more gradually at time. People with diabetes must juggle those fluctuations along with many other issues, including how much insulin they may need for food and beverages.

But knowing exactly what’s considered “normal” for glucose levels can be tricky, given differing clinical guidance and how so much of diabetes management — and healthcare, overall — is individualized. That means what is a recommended glucose goal or target range for one person, may not be the same for someone else.

This article will provide the latest on clinical guidance when it comes to glucose levels after eating, whether you have diabetes or not and if low blood sugars (hypoglycemia) is something you experience.

Known as post-prandial, your blood sugars after you start eating and drinking are an important measure in your overall health — particularly if you live with any type of diabetes.

Because food raises blood sugar, most guidelines focus on the higher end of a glucose level rather than the full range often seen before anything’s eaten.

Typically, 2 hours after you finish eating, your blood sugars should return to “normal. ” Although, again, depending on what you eat and drink and how much insulin’s dosed, that postprandial effect can vary dramatically.

The post-prandial glucose range may differ for children and teens, as well as for older adults with diabetes who might live with higher glucose levels because of safety concerns such as falling (more common in older adults with diabetes who experience hypoglycemia).

In its annual guidelines, the ADA states “less stringent” glucose goals may be appropriate for those who can’t sense if they have hypoglycemia or are more prone to severe hypo events.

While clinical guidelines offer a consensus, the numbers provided do vary. In more recent years, most diabetes and medical organizations have encouraged personalized, individualized goals that may change based on many factors beyond just the food you eat. Those other factors may include:

• age
• type of diabetes
• the amount of insulin you take
• how much exercise you get
• complications or other health conditions you may have
• other medications you take

Importantly, there’s no “textbook definition” for what your blood sugars should be at any given time.

It’s best to discuss with your doctors and diabetes care team any specific goals or target ranges that you may have, after eating or at other times. This is just one part of the picture in managing your diabetes and health overall, including the mental aspect of tracking your blood sugars.

Remember, blood sugars are just data points. They do not define you, and they don’t indicate whether you’re “good” or “bad” in your diabetes management or healthcare overall.

Your body breaks down everything you eat and drink, absorbing that into your body and converting parts of that into sugar and energy for your body to use.

Foods that have what’s known as a high glycemic index (white bread, sugary and starchy foods) are rapidly digested and can cause your blood sugar to rise quickly. Foods with a lower glycemic index, and those with fats and protein, are digested more slowly and lead to a more gradual rise in your blood sugar levels.

That’s why your blood sugars will jump quickly if you eat candy or drink a cup of orange juice, compared to when you eat a slice of pizza or crackers with peanut butter.

For people with diabetes, their bodies don’t produce or use insulin properly in order to naturally regulate their blood sugar levels. That’s why their glucose levels may be much higher, compared to someone without diabetes whose body naturally makes insulin for the foods and drinks they consume in order to keep glucose levels regulated.

You can read more here about how food affects your blood sugar levels.

Any time you’re worried about your glucose levels is a time to consult with your doctor or healthcare team.

If you’re experiencing high or low blood sugars after eating (or at any other time), you may want to discuss possible changes to your care plan. That may include changing insulin correction amounts for the food you’re consuming, as it may not be accurate. You might also need to adjust your background insulin amounts, if those are leading to out-of-range glucose levels after eating.

Do not make any changes to your medication dosages or diabetes care plan without first talking with your healthcare team.

Your glucose levels should be around 140 to 180 mg/dL after eating, according to the consensus of clinical guidance from diabetes experts and other medical professionals. But blood sugars can rise higher depending on many other factors, including the type of food or drink you’ve consumed.

Children and teenagers may have different post-prandial goals compared to a nonpregnant adult, whereas someone older who deals with hypoglycemia may also have varying targets after eating. You should consult with your diabetes and healthcare team to discuss your preferred post-prandial blood sugars and what may be best for you.

Increased glucose level. How to be and what to do?

04.04.2022

In the body, all metabolic processes occur in close connection. When they are violated, a variety of diseases and pathological conditions develop, including an increase in blood glucose.

Now people consume a very large amount of sugar, as well as easily digestible carbohydrates. There is even evidence that in the last century their consumption has increased 20 times. In addition, people’s health has recently been negatively affected by ecology, the presence of a large amount of unnatural food in the diet.

Signs of an increase in blood sugar are very common in people, and the number of cases of diabetes in developed countries is now increasing every year.

Glucose is one of the main sources of energy and a universal fuel for cells, thanks to which our body performs a huge number of functions – for example, such as the work of the cardiovascular, nervous, and digestive systems.

The amount of glucose in the blood is called the sugar level and its rate depends on the work of the pancreas. This indicator can be influenced by factors such as: muscle activity, emotional state, diet.

A change in blood sugar levels is a signal of pathological processes in the body and may be a symptom of the development of serious diseases. Glycemia is the amount of glucose in a person’s blood. To understand the essence of this concept, it is important to know what glucose is and what should be the indicators of glucose content.

The level of sugar in the blood, the norm of which is important for the normal functioning of the body, regulates insulin. But if enough of this hormone is not produced, or tissues respond inadequately to insulin, then blood sugar levels increase. The increase in this indicator is affected by smoking, unhealthy diet, stressful situations.

The answer to the question, what is the norm of sugar in the blood of an adult, is given by the World Health Organization. There are approved norms of glucose. So, if the indicators are below the norm, then the person has hypoglycemia, if higher – hyperglycemia. You need to understand that any option is dangerous for the body, as this means that violations occur in the body, and sometimes irreversible.

It is generally accepted that if capillary and venous blood is examined, then the result may fluctuate slightly. Therefore, when determining what the normal glucose content is, the result is slightly overestimated. The norm of venous blood is on average 3.5-6.1, capillary blood – 3.5-5.5. The norm of sugar after eating is up to 7.8 mmol / l. Above this indicator in healthy people, sugar does not rise.

But if the norm of glucose in the blood is slightly exceeded, and the indicators in the analysis from the finger are 5.6-6.1, and from the vein it is from 6.1 to 7, this condition is defined as prediabetes (impaired glucose tolerance).

With a result from a vein of more than 7 mmol / l (7.4, etc.), and from a finger – above 6.1, we are already talking about diabetes. For a reliable assessment of diabetes, a test is used – glycated hemoglobin.

Elevated blood sugar can be determined if a person has certain signs. The following symptoms, manifested in an adult and a child, should alert a person:

– weakness, severe fatigue; – increased appetite and at the same time weight loss; – thirst and a constant feeling of dryness in the mouth;

– profuse and very frequent urination, night trips to the toilet are typical; – pustules, boils and other lesions on the skin, such lesions do not heal well;

– regular manifestation of itching in the groin, in the genitals;

– deterioration of immunity, deterioration in performance, frequent colds, allergies in adults;

– deterioration of vision, especially in people who are already 50 years old.

The manifestation of such symptoms may indicate that there is an increased glucose in the blood. It is important to consider that signs of high blood sugar can be expressed only by some of the manifestations listed above. Therefore, even if only some symptoms of high sugar levels appear in an adult or a child, you need to take tests and determine glucose.

The risk group for diabetes includes those who have a hereditary predisposition to diabetes, obesity, pancreatic disease, etc.

In the presence of such signs, high blood sugar during pregnancy is also possible. In this case, it is very important to determine the exact causes of high sugar.

However, there is another test that is recommended for diagnosing diabetes in humans. It’s called a glycated hemoglobin test, the one with which glucose is bound in the blood. This study will show whether the patient with diabetes clearly controls blood glucose in the last 3 months.

Diabetes mellitus is a disease that can proceed without symptoms for a long time, and then turn into severe complications leading to disability and death. Diabetes mellitus occurs in 6% of the world’s population, annually over 2 million people die from it. Moreover, in 90% of cases, patients are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus, in the development of which the most important role belongs to obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.

Proper nutrition plays an important role in the treatment of most diseases, but in diabetes it is of key importance. For example, in obese patients with type 2 diabetes, a diet that promotes weight loss can often stop the progression of the disease and the development of dangerous complications.

There are basic principles of nutrition for obesity and the risk of developing diabetes:

The diet should include the full range of macronutrients – proteins (15%), fats (25%) and carbohydrates (60%).

– When it comes to diabetes prevention, many people think about the need for almost complete restriction of carbohydrates in their diet. And at first glance, this looks quite logical – after all, it is carbohydrates that increase blood sugar levels. But still, you should not rush into this. Firstly, carbohydrates are different, and secondly, they perform many useful functions in our body. You just need to understand what carbohydrates and at what time you can afford. You can not exclude carbohydrates from the diet or limit their volume: this will not lead to a decrease in glucose levels – it will be synthesized in the body from fats and proteins. It is important to minimize the intake of carbohydrates that are easily digestible (sugar, sugary drinks, refined cereals) – they lead to a sharp jump in blood glucose, which is difficult to quickly compensate for the introduction of insulin or hypoglycemic drugs. It is necessary to give preference to “complex” carbohydrates, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains – they are slowly digested and the level of glucose in the blood rises smoothly.

– it is necessary to reduce the content of animal fats in the diet, which contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, and give preference to vegetable fats, fatty fish varieties are also useful;

– you should eat often, fractionally and in small portions to avoid sharp “splashes” of blood glucose levels;

– the diet should be rich in vitamins and minerals: their deficiency exacerbates metabolic disorders.

In patients with normal weight, the daily calorie content of the diet should correspond to energy expenditure, and overweight patients (which is more common in type 2 diabetes) should consume fewer calories than they spend in order to gradually and smoothly get rid of extra pounds. This is the easiest and most effective way to reduce weight!

An important role belongs to physical activity. Muscle work contributes to the utilization of glucose, helps to reduce weight, increases the sensitivity of receptors to insulin. In addition, physical exercises create conditions for better blood supply to all organs, primarily the heart and the skeletal muscles themselves, the formation of new vessels to replace the destroyed ones, which avoids their “drying out”.

According to the Russian and foreign diabetic associations, very little is needed to prevent the development of diabetes – only 150 minutes of active physical activity per week. Of course, we are not talking about calm walking, but the type of activity does not matter. The main thing is that classes give you pleasure (this will allow you not to abandon it in the near future) and be regular.

And, if you smoke, quitting smoking will further reduce your risk of developing diabetes. So far, the opinions of scientists about why smoking provokes diabetes are rather contradictory, but the fact that smoking affects the development of diabetes is beyond doubt, even though smokers on average have a lower body weight.

Be healthy!

Chief External Endocrinologist

Health Department of the Lipetsk Region

Gorbunova Natalya Petrovna

norms, allowable values, diagnostic methods

1. Blood sugar norm
2. Who needs to measure glucose
3. Age indicators
4. Fasting and postprandial levels
5. How to determine glycemia
6. What determines the level of sugar
7. How to use the glucometer
8. Who needs a glucose tolerance test

Image by stefamerpik on Freepik

The level of sugar in the blood is not a constant value and tends to change. There are physiological limits within which these changes are acceptable and not harmful to health.

Usually, the sugar level rises immediately after eating, and then decreases to acceptable physiological norms.

If there is a slight excess of the permissible values, this indicates that glucose tolerance is reduced. With a significant excess of the upper indicator, diabetes mellitus is diagnosed.

Low blood sugar, which is different from the norm, may indicate hypoglycemia. The disease is diagnosed by laboratory blood tests. Patients with this type of diabetes may be given injections of a glucose solution.

Blood sugar norm

The blood sugar content must be within the prescribed plasma glucose range. After sleep on an empty stomach, this value should be in the range of 59-99 mg per 100 ml, which is equivalent to 3.3-5.5 mmol / liter. The value after a meal (two hours later) should not exceed 141 mg per 100 ml, which, respectively, up to 7. 8 mmol / liter.

Who needs to measure glucose

Checking the level is necessary primarily for those who have been diagnosed with diabetes. Monitor indicators should be absolutely healthy people. Examination for medical reasons is necessary when:

1. Signs of hyperglycemia. They are manifested by fatigue, frequent urge to empty the bladder, thirst, weight changes.
2. Being at risk. It includes people over forty years of age who have a genetic predisposition, are overweight, with various stages of obesity.
3. Pregnancy. Between 24 and 28 weeks, pregnant women may develop gestational diabetes.

Age indicators

The average allowable blood glucose values ​​​​can vary under the influence of a number of factors:

• age;
• general condition of the body;
• power mode;
• human lifestyle.

When testing blood from a finger on an empty stomach, the following values ​​\u200b\u200bare allowed:

• children under 14 – 2. 3-3.9 mmol per liter;
• adolescents from 14 to 19 years old – 2.5-4.0 mmol per liter;
• adults 20-49 years – 3.0-5.5 mmol per liter;
• patients over 50 years old – 3.5-6.5 mmol per liter.

If there are small deviations of a few tenths, this is acceptable.

Fasting and postprandial levels

Note! An increase in glucose levels is normal after eating food. However, even after eating, the value should not be more than 7.8 mmol / liter.

There may be deviations in the collection of capillary or venous blood. The norm for the first is 3.5-5.5 mmol / liter, for the second 3.5-6.1 mmol / liter. However, a single blood test is not enough to make a diagnosis of diabetes. Several glucose tests will be required, a curve of indicators is used for evaluation. In addition, it is necessary to combine the results of tests and the patient’s symptoms.

With a slight excess, a violation of glucose tolerance is diagnosed. If the results of a blood test from a finger show a sugar level of 5.6-6.1 mmol / l, and from a vein – 7 mmol / l, then the patient is diagnosed with the condition “prediabetes”. If in the venous blood the glucose content exceeds 7 mmol / l, and in the capillary blood – 6.1, there is a high probability that diabetes mellitus develops. A glycated hemoglobin test is required to confirm the diagnosis.

Often, blood sugar levels are below normal. If this value is below 3.5 mmol / l, the development of hypoglycemia is likely. Such changes are usually caused by physiological causes or the development of diseases. Repeated measurement of blood glucose levels is necessary for diagnosis and evaluation of the effectiveness of treatment. So, with indicators not higher than 10 mmol / liter before meals or one to two hours after eating, type 1 diabetes is recognized as compensated. The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes is made if the sugar level does not exceed 6.5 mmol / liter before meals, and during the day this value does not exceed 8. 25 mmol / liter.

How to determine glycemia

Control of sugar levels should be carried out at least once a year, even for healthy people. You can measure the level at home using a glucometer. The study should be carried out at different times of the day:

1. On an empty stomach in the morning. Before the study, it is forbidden to eat and drink for 8 hours, with the exception of water.
2. After eating. Control is carried out two hours after eating.

Diabetes patients are also advised to check their sugar levels several times a day, especially in the first period after diagnosis.

What determines the level of sugar

Healthy people need to follow a proper diet without the abuse of foods high in glucose. Patients with diabetes should follow the diet and doctor’s recommendations. It is especially important for women to control sugar levels. This is due to their physiological characteristics: elevated glucose values ​​​​do not always indicate pathology and depend on age and cycle. For example, during menstruation, tests may give inadequate results.

At the age of over 50, a change in the hormonal background associated with menopause occurs in the female body. This is accompanied by changes in carbohydrate metabolism, so women over the age of 60 need to regularly check their blood for sugar.

In pregnant women, blood glucose levels up to 6.3 mmol / l are considered normal. In the case of an increase in the value to 7 mmol / l, an additional examination and consultation with a doctor is required.

How to use the meter

The glucometer is easy to use. Some devices measure indicators in the blood, some – in the blood plasma. This must be taken into account when calculating indicators.

The principle of operation of the devices is the same:

1. Wash your hands well before measuring your blood sugar. It is better to use warm water, which will help speed up blood circulation.
2. The needle is released, the puncture depth on the lancet is set.
3. The ball of the finger is pierced with the device. Important! The puncture site should not be wiped with disinfectants, this may change the study data.
4. A drop of capillary blood is applied to a special test strip. It is important that the area is completely filled with blood, otherwise the test will fail.
5. After about 10 seconds, the sugar content appears on the display.

Devices can give an error of 10-15%. The most accurate indicators can be obtained in laboratory studies when taking venous blood and plasma.

Who needs a glucose tolerance test

If hyperglycemia is suspected, the doctor prescribes repeated studies. These are tests with a sugar load, which allow you to understand how the body is ready to cope with a single intake of glucose in large quantities. This is how the work of the pancreas is checked, its ability to produce insulin in large volumes. Tests are carried out after consuming 75 g of glucose dissolved in water.