Blood sugar, also referred to as blood glucose, serves as the body's main source of fuel. It provides the building blocks to builds cells and muscles. A blood sugar test measures how the body utilizes glucose. Too much glucose in the blood stream can lead to diabetes, while blood sugar levels that are too low can signal hypoglycemia. Both diseases are manageable in the early stages with diet modifications.
Origins
Glucose is obtained through food and stored in the liver. During the process of digesting food, sugar is released through the bloodstream with the assistance of insulin, which is a hormone secreted by the pancreas. Insulin regulates the amount of sugar that goes into the blood. The liver stores glucose until it's needed, when no food has been digested. People with a history of diabetes should receive regular blood sugar tests to make sure all of the processes are operating smoothly.
Tests
There are a number of tests used to measure blood sugar. The Mayo Clinic advises patients to receive the most complete A1C test whenever possible. It measures blood sugar levels over an average of three months. Measurements that come in higher than 6.5 percent for two readings over that period of time indicate the existence of diabetes. Random blood tests can be taken at any time. Blood sugar levels indicating 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) or higher in a random test typically indicate a diabetic condition.
Fasting
A fasting blood sugar test is taken when a person has not eaten anything overnight. A blood sugar measurement of 70 to 99 mg/dl following a fast is a normal blood glucose reading. For best accuracy, the test should be done twice, especially to diagnose diabetes. Readings higher than 126 mg/dl will result in a diagnosis of diabetes. Blood sugar levels that fall between 100 and 125 mg/dl indicate the person is at risk for developing diabetes, referred to as pre-diabetes. This condition usually can be treated with lifestyle and dietary changes.
Low Levels
When blood sugar levels fall below normal, hypoglycemia occurs. Hypoglycemia can be a result of insufficient insulin production caused by diabetes medications. Others with the condition experience low levels of glucose about four hours after eating and when fasting. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include confusion, shakiness, sweating and light-headedness. Blood sugar levels typically return to normal when the person eats or drinks something that is high in carbohydrates such as crackers, potatoes, bread or fruit. Symptoms usually occur when blood sugar levels fall below 70 mg/dl.
Maintaining
People with low or high blood sugar levels must monitor their eating habits to maintain proper blood sugar levels. Diabetics often carry a blood glucose monitor to keep track of their levels. Exercise can help to maintain proper blood glucose levels. By keeping quick snacks available at all times, anyone with blood sugar fluctuations can usually bring their levels within normal range fairly quickly.
