Blood glucose levels that are out of range can cause health problems. Long-term high blood glucose control puts non-diabetics at greater risk for developing heart disease, and increases the risk that diabetics will develop complications, such as impaired wound healing, amputations and vision problems. A carbohydrate-controlled diet, along with regular exercise, can help control blood glucose levels.
Measuring Blood Glucose
Your doctor will measure your blood glucose levels through a blood test. A fasting blood glucose test, taken after no food or beverages have been consumed for 8 hours, can help determine if you may be at risk for developing diabetes. A normal fasting blood glucose level is 100 milligrams per deciliter or less, while a fasting blood glucose level between 100 and 125 mg/dL is indicative of impaired blood glucose, or pre-diabetes. Those with fasting blood glucose levels at or above 126 mg/dL may be diagnosed with diabetes.
If you have impaired blood glucose or diabetes, you can check your blood glucose levels daily through use of a portable blood glucose monitor. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, individuals with diabetes should try to keep blood glucose levels between 70 and 130 mg/dL before meals and less than 180 mg/dL one to two hours after the start of a meal.
High Blood Glucose
High blood glucose, or hyperglycemia, occurs when you do not have enough insulin in your body and your blood glucose level is at or above 180 mg/dL. Symptoms of hyperglycemia may include frequent urination or increased thirst. Causes of hyperglycemia may include insufficient exercise, too little diabetes medication and, most importantly, overeating.
Low Blood Glucose
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, occurs when blood glucose levels drop below 70 mg/dL. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include shakiness, dizziness, sweating, headache and confusion. The American Diabetes Association suggests that consuming 15 to 20 grams of carbohydrates, such as 4 ounces of fruit juice or four to five saltine crackers will help alleviate hypoglycemic symptoms. After 15 to 20 minutes, recheck your blood sugar level. If it is still below 70 mg/dL, repeat the treatment.
Staying In Target
When you eat and what you eat each day both have a big effect on blood glucose levels. Those with diabetes or impaired blood glucose should strive for three main meals and one to two snacks each day. Consume foods with a low glycemic index, which means they have little to no impact on blood sugar levels. According to the Mayo Clinic, low glycemic foods, such as carrots, peas, beans and apples, take longer to be absorbed in your digestive tract, which may help control appetite and weight, and stabilize blood glucose levels. Other ways to help stabilize blood glucose levels include consuming breads and cereals made with whole grains, oats, barley and bran; eating fewer high glycemic foods like white rice, pasta and potatoes; eating plenty of fruits and vegetables; and avoiding high-sugar sweets such as baked goods, ice cream, candy and sodas.
Considerations
Contact your health-care provider if you are having trouble stabilizing your blood glucose levels. A professional can provide you with the proper prescription of diet, exercise and medications to keep your blood glucose levels under control and prevent health complications.
References
- National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse: When Your Blood Glucose Is Too High or Too Low
- "Atherosclerosis"; High-normal fasting blood glucose in non-diabetic range is associated with increased coronary artery calcium burden in asymptomatic men; K. Nasir et al.; December 2007
- Medline Plus; Glucose test -- blood; May 2010
- American Diabetes Association: Hypoglycemia
- American Diabetes Association: Hyperglycemia
- Mayo Clinic.com; Glycemic index diet: Losing weight with blood sugar control; November 2009
