What Is the Evidence of Tight Glucose Control?

Tight glucose control (tight diabetes control) is evidenced by quality of life indicators, as well as having blood glucose levels that fall within a certain range on routine glucose testing. The goal is to maintain a blood glucose level similar to that of a normal, healthy person.

Facts

• There are positives and negatives of tight glucose control, including the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Consequently, this therapy is not appropriate for everyone, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Glucose management is best accomplished under the guidance of a physician and/or professional diabetes educator.

Target Glucose Levels

• In order to achieve the ADA-defined minimum criteria for tight diabetes control, your preprandial (before eating) glucose level should fall within 70 mg/dl and 130mg/dl. After meals, the level should not exceed 180 at the 2-hour mark. In addition, your hemoglobin A1C blood test result should be below 7 percent.

Independent Glucose Testing

• According to the ADA, diabetics should routinely test their blood glucose levels, using a home glucose meter, before and after meals. This is essential for tight glucose control.

Professional Blood Testing

• Diabetics should have their blood glucose levels tested at the doctor's office at a minimum of every 6 months to assist in tight glucose control. The ADA recommends the hemoglobin A1C test, which gives an estimate of the average glucose levels over the past 3 months.

Considerations

• Evidence of tight glucose achievement also includes your overall quality of life, especially when it comes to the delay or prevention of diabetes complications. According to the ADA, diabetics who are able to achieve tight glucose control have a significantly better change of avoiding complications.