One of the most common questions people have regarding their health is, “What is normal sugar level by age?” Knowing the normal range of blood sugar levels for different age groups can help individuals monitor their health and prevent potential complications.
For example, they may order a fasting blood glucose test or another A1C test. In any case, your provider will carefully interpret your results and discuss them with you. An A1C test measures the average amount of sugar in your blood over the past few months. Healthcare providers use it to help diagnose prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes and to monitor how well your diabetes treatment plan is working. The changes may include adjusting insulin correction amounts for the food you’re consuming, as it may not be accurate.
Blood Sugar Levels in Children
A few years ago, diabetes was a condition that was prevalent in older adults. However, today, the incidence of type 2 diabetes has risen significantly in younger individuals, including children. If you have diabetes and your level is above your target, your doctor may change your treatment plan to get your level down. If you test positive for prediabetes or diabetes but don’t have symptoms, your doctor will test you again on a different day to confirm the results. If your glucose levels have been high over recent weeks, your hemoglobin A1c test will be higher. Women can lower their risk of gestational diabetes by staying active andkeeping a healthy weight before they ever get pregnant, particularly ifthey have other risk factors for diabetes.
It discusses blood sugar targets, how to monitor your glucose, and the benefits of dietary changes and medication. Talk with your healthcare professional about how often you need to record your blood sugar results. The readings given by many devices can be sent to a computer or smart device. Your provider will also order a blood glucose test if you have symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
For children, the normal blood sugar level ranges from 70 to 100 mg/dL before meals. After eating, their blood sugar levels may peak at around 200 mg/dL but should return to normal within a few hours. It is important for parents to monitor their child’s sugar intake and consult a healthcare provider if there are any concerns about their blood sugar levels.
A doctor will let you know whether, based on your unique factors, you have a different A1C goal. In the chart below you can see whether your A1C result falls into a ‘normal’ range or whether it could be a sign of prediabetes or diabetes. When sugar enters your bloodstream, it binds to a protein called hemoglobin. People who have high blood sugar have a higher percentage of the hemoglobin protein coated with sugar.
Blood Sugar Levels in Adults
Check your device’s user’s guide to learn if you need to do finger-stick blood tests, and if so, how often. A blood sugar result of 70 mg/dL or lower is usually considered low. If you or your child have these symptoms in addition to vomiting, deep labored breathing and/or confusion, go to the nearest emergency room as soon as possible.
Adults typically have a normal fasting blood sugar level between 70 and 100 mg/dL. After meals, blood sugar levels may rise temporarily but should generally stay below 140 mg/dL. Consistently high blood sugar levels in adults can indicate prediabetes or diabetes, so it is important to monitor and manage blood sugar levels regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors can affect blood sugar levels?
- Diet
- Exercise
- Stress
- Medications
How can I maintain normal blood sugar levels?
To maintain normal blood sugar levels, it is important to eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, manage stress, and follow any medication regimen prescribed by a healthcare provider. Monitoring blood sugar levels regularly can also help individuals stay within the normal range.
Overall, understanding what is considered a normal sugar level by age is essential for maintaining good health and preventing chronic conditions such as diabetes. By staying informed and proactive about blood sugar levels, individuals can take control of their health and well-being.
