Any change in one of these variables can increase the risk of high and low blood sugars. Hence, it is important to understand your target values and how to check them, as in blood glucose or continuous glucose monitoring. If you have diabetes, your healthcare provider will give you more information about keeping your blood sugar numbers in a target range. They will also tell you how often and when to check your blood sugar and what to do if your blood sugar is high or low. Know that having a high or low glucose level doesn’t necessarily mean you have a medical condition and need treatment.
It’s common for people to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in their late 40s and continuing into their 50s and 60s. The fastest-growing group of people with a diabetes diagnosis is age 65 and over. Possible side effects include digestive issues, like nausea and vomiting.
Managing blood sugar levels is essential for overall health, especially for individuals with diabetes. A normal fasting blood sugar level typically falls between 70 and 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). However, many people wonder if a blood sugar range of 160-220 mg/dL is considered healthy.
The following chart, using information from Diabetes UK, gives a rough idea of how a child’s blood sugar levels may vary during the day. A doctor will advise on levels that are suitable to the individual. A doctor will work with each person to establish suitable levels for different times of the day, depending on whether the person has just woken up, eaten, or exercised.
The program is viewed on a receiver, a smartphone or an insulin pump. People living with diabetes may choose to use CGMs, especially people who have type 1 diabetes. They use a device placed on the skin along with a sensor placed under the skin. These disposable sensors last for 10 days to two weeks before they need to be changed. You might not need to test your blood sugar every day if you manage type 2 diabetes with medicines that are not insulin. You also might not need to test daily if you manage the condition with diet and exercise alone.
The 2022 standards from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) are a set of guidelines followed by many professionals in the diabetes field. This chart details goals for specific groups of people with diabetes. However, many people with diabetes strive to keep their glucose levels under 140 mg/dL on average. Careful monitoring of your blood sugar and knowing what may cause it to rise or fall can help you and a health team develop a diabetes care plan and set treatment goals.
Other factors, such as certain medications and not fasting, can affect your levels. There could’ve also been an error in the collection, transport or processing of the test. If your blood glucose test is part of a basic or comprehensive metabolic panel, you may also need to fast for several hours before your blood draw. In any case, your healthcare provider will let you know if you need to follow any special instructions. Monitoring your blood sugar can help prevent serious complications, including heart attack and kidney disease.
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels
Blood sugar, or glucose, is the main source of energy for the body’s cells. It comes from the food we eat and is regulated by insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. When blood sugar levels are too high or too low, it can lead to serious health complications.
Healthy Blood Sugar Range
An ideal blood sugar range for most individuals, including those with diabetes, is typically between 80-130 mg/dL before meals and below 180 mg/dL after meals. A range of 160-220 mg/dL may indicate elevated blood sugar levels, which could increase the risk of long-term complications like heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve problems.
FAQs About Blood Sugar Levels
- Q: Can a blood sugar level of 160-220 mg/dL be normal?
- A: While individual responses may vary, consistently high blood sugar levels in this range are generally not considered normal or healthy.
- Q: What should I do if my blood sugar levels are consistently above 220 mg/dL?
- A: Consult your healthcare provider to discuss potential lifestyle changes, medication adjustments, or other interventions to help bring your blood sugar levels back into a healthier range.
In conclusion, a blood sugar range of 160-220 mg/dL is not considered healthy for most individuals. Monitoring blood sugar levels regularly, following a balanced diet, staying physically active, and taking medications as prescribed are important steps in managing blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of complications associated with high blood sugar.
