Monitoring glucose levels becomes very important when you have been diagnosed with diabetes. The glucose levels chart provided in this article will help you keep a track of your blood sugar levels.
Did You Know?
According to the American Diabetes Association’s data, from the National Diabetes Fact Sheet which was released on Jan 26, 2011, 8.3% of the total population, i.e., around 25.8 million people in the United States are affected by diabetes each year.
Our body is constantly in need of energy for performing its different functions. This energy is supplied to the body through glucose, which is a type of sugar present in the bloodstream, and is the primary source of energy used by the body. It enters the body through the carbohydrate-rich foods that we consume. The starch and sugar present in these foods are broken down into glucose, which is absorbed into the bloodstream.
Chart to Identify Blood Glucose Levels
This chart will help you identify the different glucose levels while fasting and also after a meal, for diabetics as well as non-diabetics.
| Target Value | While Fasting | 2-3 Hours Post Meal |
| Non-diabetic | 72 – 106 mg/dL | < 140 mg/dL |
| Type I Diabetes | 72 – 126 mg/dL | < 162 mg/dL |
| Type II Diabetes | 72 – 126 mg/dL | < 153 mg/dL |
| Diabetic Children | 72 – 144 mg/dL | < 180 mg/dL |
Glucose Levels
Glucose level refers to the amount of sugar or glucose present in the blood. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, is responsible for regulating the level of glucose in the body. It causes the cells in the liver, muscles, and fat tissues, to absorb glucose from the blood and use it as an energy source. Maintaining this glucose level in the normal range becomes very important for the smooth functioning of the body. Any fluctuation in its level can cause various health issues.
Low Glucose Levels
The condition that arises when the blood glucose level drops below a certain point is known as hypoglycemia. It is a mild condition and can be treated fairly quickly and easily, by consuming glucose-rich foods or drinks. If the condition is not treated immediately and persists for long, it may cause rapid heartbeat, agitation, blurred vision, hunger, temporary loss of consciousness, confusion or clumsiness, etc. It is also one of the common causes of fainting spells.
High Glucose Levels
When the blood glucose level goes higher than what is normal, the condition is known as hyperglycemia. This can happen when the body is unable to produce insulin, or when it fails to respond to insulin. It increases the risk of heart diseases and strokes, results in decreased vision, frequent urination, difficulty in concentrating, increased thirst, weight loss, and may also cause nerve problems.
Different Tests Used
Now comes another chart that will give you the normal glucose levels measured using different types of tests.
| Type of Test | Normal Glucose Level |
| A1C or eAG | 7% or 154 mg/dl |
| Before a meal (Preprandial plasma glucose) |
70-130 mg/dl |
| 1-2 hours after beginning of the meal (Postprandial plasma glucose) |
Less than 180 mg/dl |
* Note: The aforementioned values are suggested by the American Diabetes Association, and are valid for most adults with diabetes, that are not pregnant.
As a diabetic, it is necessary to monitor your blood glucose levels with regularity. The only way to avoid health complications would be to keep the levels from fluctuating. Keep a close eye on your glucose levels and enjoy a stress-free and healthy life.
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only, and should not be taken as a replacement for medical advice.
