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Blood Sugar Levels & What They Mean

Blood sugar levels change for every individual at different phases of the day. Your blood sugar level is typically its lowest in the morning and before meals, going up after meals and decreasing once more just before bed. To understand what your blood sugar level should be, it helps to know what you're measuring and why.

  1. All About Glucose

    • Blood sugar level refers to the amount of glucose present in the blood. Glucose is the body's primary source of energy, coming from sources like carbohydrates.

    Normal, High or Low

    • Glucose levels in the blood can easily be detected by a doctor with a blood sample to test for conditions like diabetes or hypoglycemia, Diabetes can be detected through persistently high blood sugar levels, causing glucose to remain in the blood rather than being used by the body's cells. Hypoglycemia results show unusually low blood sugar levels.

    The Measurements

    • According to MedicineNet, blood sugar levels should normally be at 80 to 120 upon waking up and before meals, 160 or less two hours after meals, and 100 to 140 at bedtime. When the number is too high, as with diabetics, it often means that the the body does not make or properly use insulin, which helps you convert glucose into energy.

    Type 1 vs. Type 2 Diabetes

    • There are two types of diabetes that create high blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from the absence of insulin, and Type 2, which is present in the majority of diabetes cases, results from the body's inability to convert or produce enough insulin.

    The Importance of Monitoring

    • Monitoring your blood sugar level helps you see how your diet, medications, exercise regimen and lifestyle affect the amount of glucose in your bloodstream. Frequent monitoring can help prevent the onset of high or low levels.

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