A blood sugar measurement shows how much sugar, or glucose, is in the bloodstream. Elevated blood sugar means the body is not turning carbohydrates and other food into a source of energy for the body's cells. High blood sugar may mean a person has diabetes or is at risk of developing diabetes in the future. If left unmanaged, elevated blood sugar and diabetes can increase the risk of serious health complications including heart disease, stroke, nerve damage and kidney problems. Fortunately, it is possible to manage diabetes with healthy lifestyle changes, medication and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels.
Understanding the Numbers
For most people, ideal blood sugar levels measured after fasting for eight to 10 hours are under 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl).
Those who have a fasting blood sugar measurement of 126 mg/dl or higher are diagnosed with diabetes.
People whose fasting blood sugar falls between 100 and 126 mg/dl are considered to have impaired fasting glucose or prediabetes, which greatly increases the risk of developing diabetes.
Testing and Monitoring
In most cases, blood sugar is measured at your doctor's office or lab, often as part of regular blood tests for a physical exam. Your doctor might also wish to measure your blood sugar levels if you are at risk for diabetes, have a health condition that may affect your blood sugar levels or if you are pregnant.
If you are at risk for high blood sugar or if you have been diagnosed with prediabetes or diabetes, your doctor might also ask you to monitor your blood sugar at home, using a blood glucose monitor. Most monitors work by using a drop of blood from your finger, which you place on a small strip that is read by the machine.
Goal Levels
Most people with diabetes should work toward a fasting blood sugar between 70 and 130 mg/dl. Those with prediabetes should work toward a fasting blood sugar measurement that falls below 100 mg/dl. Your own target numbers might differ, depending on your overall health and what your doctor has recommended.
Management and Treatment
Type 1 diabetes is treated with insulin, a medication that helps control blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes, which is more common, can often be controlled with healthy lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise and moderate weight loss. In some cases, insulin might also be needed. Many people with prediabetes can usually prevent the onset of diabetes with regular exercise, a healthy diet and moderate weight loss.
Maintaining Control
Monitoring your blood sugar regularly can help you better understand how certain foods, physical activity and even stress can affect your blood sugar levels. Your doctor might also recommend that you work with a dietitian, exercise physiologist or diabetes educator to keep your progress on track. Following a careful plan can help you take control of blood sugar levels and your overall health.
