When Should I Test My Blood Glucose With Diabetes?

Proper management of blood sugar levels is important for anyone diagnosed with diabetes. Knowing how and when these levels peak in the body can save a diabetic's life.

Morning

• It is usually important for a diabetic to check sugar levels first thing in the morning before breakfast, because after a night of sleep, sugar levels generally drop and must be raised to normal. The sugar levels in your average person is from 80 to 120. By checking this first thing in the morning a diabetic can evaluate what foods should be eaten for breakfast.

Before Every Meal

• Diabetics should check their sugar levels before every meal. This determines how many meals you should have and how much should be eaten at meals. It also determines what types of foods you should eat and whether you should have any snacks throughout the day.

Physician's Instructions

• Diabetics must follow a physician's instructions on how often and what time sugar should be checked. A physician might also advise a specific diet and exercise plan. It is important to follow these regimens as closely as possible, because if you're managing the disease with medication, straying from these plans might result in your doctor having to alter your dosage or how often the medication must be taken.