Blood sugar (glucose) levels rise and drop back down again in about two to four hours after a meal when people who do not have diabetes consume carbohydrates. This means that insulin automatically works at the right times to match their meals, activity, and stress levels. However, when people with diabetes eat, their blood sugar levels rise and remain high. Usually, when blood glucose levels rise insulin is released from the pancreas to regulate the concentration of blood glucose. Unfortunately, people with diabetes have a problem producing insulin and high blood sugar levels in the body could lead to complications in every organ. Therefore, blood glucose testing is an important part of diabetes care. People with diabetes need to keep their blood glucose better balanced by eating at regular intervals. They also need to monitor their blood glucose levels and use the information to adjust medication doses, food consumption, and to track how well their diabetes is managed.

Self- Monitoring of Blood Sugar

People with diabetes should self- monitor their blood sugar at home and keep a log of their results. They should bring their blood glucose diary with them to their doctor’s appointment at every visit. They should also bring their meter to address any concerns or get more training on how to use the meter correctly.

Normal And Recommended ADA Blood Sugar Levels

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends:

Fasting Blood Glucose Levels

Normal blood glucose levels: Less than 100 mg/dl 

Prediabetes: 100 mg/dl to 125 mg/dl

ADA recommended levels for people with diabetes: 80–130 mg/dl  

Blood Glucose Levels 1 to 2 Hours After Meals

Normal 2-hour blood glucose levels : Less than 140 mg/dl 

ADA recommendation for people with diabetes: Less than 180 mg/dl 

HbA1c

Normal HbA1c: Less than 5.7%

Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%

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