Q&A: Ideal Blood Sugar Levels

I received the following question from FOODPICKER.ORG:

"I have diabetes, and my blood sugar is all over the map. Could you please tell me the ideal blood sugar level?" -Susan R.

Susan, congrats to you on taking an interest in controlling your blood sugar levels. This is an important step in diabetes management, as a prolonged uncontrolled blood glucose level can result in many complications, including damage to the kidneys, eyes, nerves, and cardiovascular system.

Blood glucose recommendations for a person without diabetes are the following:

fasting/before eating: less than 100 mg/dl

at bedtime: 120 mg/dl

A1c test (blood sugar test taken every 3 months): less than 6%

Since a person with diabetes may have higher blood sugar levels resulting from lack of insulin production or insensitivity to insulin, the guidelines for diabetes aim to control high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia).

The American Association of Diabetes recommends the following blood sugar goals for a person with diabetes:

before eating: 90-130 mg/dl

1-2 hrs after beginning of eating: less than 180 mg/dl

A1c test: less than 7%

The guidelines of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (MD's specializing in disorders including diabetes) are similar:

before eating: 110 mg/dl

2 hrs after eating: 140 mg/dl

A1c test: less than 6.5%

It is important to remember that these goals are general guidelines, and the goals of each individual may vary with age, stress level, etc. It is important to discuss your own goals with your doctor or a Certified Diabetes Educator.

Peace, Love, and Veggies,

Bee