Our blood sugar levels provide an overview of overall health and indicate how an individual's body is managing diabetes.

Blood sugar level refers to the glucose concentration in the bloodstream, which is influenced by food intake, insulin activity, and other factors. It spikes an hour after eating and eventually drops.

A high blood glucose level indicates uncontrolled diabetes mellitus or insulin resistance. Knowing when to test and what to expect with sugar levels can help diabetic patients manage the condition well and stay healthy.
Also Read: Importance Of Self-Monitoring Blood Sugar

The body requires fuel for energy and derives it from the food we consume, while insulin helps store and release glucose as needed. The factors that trigger the rise of blood sugar levels include:

Large meals

Consuming foods and drinks high in sugar

Processed foods and simple carbs

The quantity of food taken in the last meal

The body’s ability to secrete and respond to insulin

Blood Glucose Testing

There are two primary tests to determine blood glucose levels: the conventional fasting blood glucose test and the glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1C) test.

Fasting Blood Sugar Test (FBS)

A fasting blood sugar test measures the value of blood glucose at a specific time. To obtain an accurate result, it is recommended to take the blood test in the morning on an empty stomach. For accurate results, avoid eating or drinking anything except water for 8-10 hours before the test. A fasting blood sugar level of 126 mg/dL or higher typically indicates diabetes mellitus.

Post-Prandial Blood Sugar (PPBS)

The post-prandial blood sugar test is measured two hours after a meal, and values over 200 mg/dL indicate diabetes mellitus.

Random Blood Sugar Test (RBS)

A random blood sugar sample is done at any time in the day, it may be a useful test if you suspect diabetes. A random blood glucose level of 200 mg/dL or higher, with symptoms of diabetes, is generally indicative of diabetes.

HbA1C (Glycosylated Hemoglobin Test)

The HbA1C is a test that gives you the measure of average blood glucose levels over a period of the last 3 months. Fasting is not required for this test, as it measures glucose attached to red blood cells. This test is more accurate and gives a good indication of your average blood glucose level over the last 2-3 months. An HbA1c level of 5.7%-6.4% indicates a higher risk of diabetes (pre-diabetes), while a level of 6.5% or above on more than one occasion generally indicates diabetes

Target Blood Glucose Levels

Blood glucose level targets are personalized which are based on the following criteria:

Duration of diabetes mellitus

Age

Comorbid conditions

Being unaware of both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia

The target range as per the American Diabetes Association (ADA) is based on age and health conditions. Strict glycemic goals are tailored for each individual.

HbA1c Less than 7 %

Before meal blood glucose 80-130 mg/dl

Post-prandial blood glucose below 180 mg/dL

How To Manage Diabetes Mellitus

Maintain a log book and note down the values after each blood test and factors like food, physical activity, and stress. Monitor your blood glucose record if the values are too high or too low for several days at the same time, it may be time to change your diabetes treatment plan. Talk to your diabetologist to understand the results and modifications required in your treatment.

Also Checkout: Diabetic Diet Chart (1600 Calories, Vegetarian)

How To Manage High Blood Sugar?

High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) indicates that the blood sugar level is higher than the target level or over 180mg/dl. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels over a while can lead to long-term health issues.

Excessive tiredness, thirst, increased hunger, blurred vision or need to urinate more often are the symptoms that show your blood sugar level may be high.

It is always important to check the blood sugar and see if it is above 180 mg/dl. The best way to manage hyperglycemia is to reduce sugar intake, add fibre-rich foods, modify your diet, and exercise regularly, such as taking a brisk walk. Seek the help of your healthcare provider if the blood sugar level is high more than 3 times in about 2 weeks.

How To Manage Hypoglycemia?

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) means that your blood sugar level drops below 70mg/dl. Hypoglycemia is dangerous and should be attended immediately and treated right away. Anyone with diabetes can experience low blood sugar, especially if they are on insulin or missed a meal.

Excessive perspiration, feeling dizzy, chills, irritability, confusion or extreme hunger are the symptoms of hypoglycemia, immediately check your blood sugar. If the blood sugar value is lower than 70mg/dl, then do any one of the following things right away:

Have 4 glucose pellets

Drink a cup of fruit juice

Have a cup of milk with sugar

Take one tablespoon of sugar or honey

Typically, food or any drink with 15 grams of carbohydrates is sufficient to bring blood sugar levels back into a safe range.

Check your blood sugar level 15 minutes after consuming something to treat hypoglycemia. If the blood sugar is still low, eat or drink any one of the sugary items again. Repeat this until blood sugar is above 70mg/dl. When you feel better have a snack or a meal to maintain blood sugar from dropping again.

Conclusion:

Always keep in mind that blood glucose level monitoring is the easiest and simplest way to know how well treatment is working and whether you need to change your diabetes treatment plan.

(This article is reviewed by Soumita Basu Ayurvedic Pharma Expert and Kalyani Krishna Chief Content Editor)

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M Sowmya Binu:

With over 15 years of experience and a Postgraduate Degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional. She specializes in creating personalized diet plans, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for overall wellness. Passionate about educating individuals, Sowmya develops insightful content covering food, nutrition, supplements, and health