Blood Sugar Information Hub

Understanding Blood Sugar

What is Blood Sugar?

Blood sugar, or glucose, is the main sugar found in your blood. It comes from the food you eat and is your body's main source of energy. Your blood carries glucose to all of your body's cells to be used for energy.

Understanding Your Numbers:

Blood sugar levels are typically measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L).

• Fasting Blood Sugar: Taken after not eating for at least 8 hours.
• Post-meal Blood Sugar: Taken 1-2 hours after a meal.
• A1C (Glycated Hemoglobin): A measure of your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months.

Blood Sugar Categories (American Diabetes Association Guidelines):

• Normal:
  • Fasting: Less than 100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L)
  • 2-hour Post-meal: Less than 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)
  • A1C: Below 5.7%
• Prediabetes:
  • Fasting: 100-125 mg/dL (5.6-6.9 mmol/L)
  • 2-hour Post-meal: 140-199 mg/dL (7.8-11.0 mmol/L)
  • A1C: 5.7% to 6.4%
• Diabetes:
  • Fasting: 126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L) or higher
  • 2-hour Post-meal: 200 mg/dL (11.1 mmol/L) or higher
  • A1C: 6.5% or higher

Common Risk Factors for High Blood Sugar (Diabetes)

Several factors can increase your risk of developing high blood sugar or Type 2 Diabetes. Understanding these risks is crucial for prevention and early management.

• Family History: Having a parent or sibling with Type 2 Diabetes increases your risk.
• Weight: Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor.
• Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular exercise can contribute to insulin resistance.
• Age: The risk of Type 2 Diabetes increases as you get older, especially after age 45.
• Race/Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups have a higher risk.
• Gestational Diabetes: Having gestational diabetes during pregnancy or giving birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common condition in women that can increase diabetes risk.
• High Blood Pressure: Often linked to insulin resistance and increased diabetes risk.
• High Cholesterol/Triglycerides: Abnormal lipid levels can indicate metabolic issues.

Managing and Preventing High Blood Sugar

Lifestyle changes are often the most effective way to manage blood sugar levels, especially for prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes.

• Healthy Eating: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
• Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing even a small amount of weight can improve insulin sensitivity.
• Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
• Adequate Sleep: Poor sleep can impact insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.
• Medication (if prescribed): For some, lifestyle changes alone may not be enough.

Checking Your Blood Sugar at Home

Regular home monitoring provides valuable insights into how diet, exercise, and medication affect your blood sugar levels.

• Choose a Glucose Meter: Discuss with your doctor which type is best for you.
• Understand Testing Times: Your doctor will advise when and how often to test.
• Proper Technique:
  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
  • Insert a test strip into your meter.
  • Use a lancet device to prick the side of your fingertip.
  • Gently squeeze your finger until a small drop of blood forms.
  • Touch the test strip to the blood drop.
• Record Your Readings: Keep a detailed log of your blood sugar levels.
• Interpret Results: Learn your target ranges from your healthcare provider.