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When to Check Blood Sugar When Pre-Diabetic

It is important to know when to check blood sugar when pre-diabetic. Pre-diabetes often goes undiagnosed and it is estimated that one in four adults in the United States has the condition. A diagnosis of pre-diabetes comes when blood glucose levels are elevated, but have not yet reached the threshold for a diabetes diagnosis. Having pre-diabetes increases the risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, but this can be prevented with glucose monitoring, exercise and diet changes and weight loss.

  1. Before Breakfast

    • Test blood sugar before breakfast in the morning. This gives a fasting blood glucose reading. The number should be under 126 for pre-diabetics. Talk to your doctor if this level is consistently higher. Higher levels may indicate the development of Type 2 diabetes or latent autoimmune diabetes in adults. The normal range of fasting glucose is between 80 and 100. Work to get your levels back into the normal range.

    After Meals

    • It is not necessary to check blood sugar after every meal when pre-diabetic. Test two hours after eating meals higher in carbohydrates, or if there are any symptoms of hyperglycemia. The blood glucose test should be under 200 for a pre-diabetic after a meal. Tests over 140 indicate pre-diabetes. Try to get blood glucose lower through diet and exercise. It is imperative to speak to your health care provider if your blood sugar rises above 200.

    Testing

    • Pre-diabetics should test blood glucose levels because of the increased risk for diabetes. Unless lifestyle changes are made, most pre-diabetics develop Type 2 diabetes within 10 years. Check blood sugar regularly to know your progress. It is a tool to help you see if you are gaining blood glucose control and to give warning if you are getting worse. Testing also gives you an idea of what foods cause blood glucose increases. Avoid those foods or eat them in limited quantities.

    How to Test

    • To test blood sugar levels, you will need a glucose meter and testing strips. Read the manual on how to code the meter and test it for accuracy. Once this is complete, insert a clean test strip into the meter. Check that the code matches the strip. Use a lancet, usually included in a monitor kit, to prick a clean finger and put the blood sample in the designated spot on the strip. This should all be done relatively quickly for improved accuracy. Record results of all tests and keep a record of any foods that have been eaten.

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