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Detailed Explanation of Blood Glucose Management

Managing blood glucose levels is crucial for people with diabetes. Here are key strategies:

Detailed Explanation of Blood Glucose Management

Monitor Blood Glucose Regularly

Use a blood glucose meter to keep track of your levels. Regular monitoring helps understand how different foods and activities affect your blood sugar.


Balanced Meals

Include a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats in each meal to maintain stable blood sugar levels.


Portion Control

Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating. Use smaller plates and measure portions if necessary.


Regular Meals

Eat at regular intervals to prevent blood sugar spikes and dips. Aim for three main meals and healthy snacks in between.


Physical Activity

Regular exercise helps regulate blood sugar levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week. Activities like walking, cycling, and swimming are excellent choices.


Tips for Monitoring and Maintaining Optimal Blood Sugar Levels

Tips for Monitoring and Maintaining Optimal Blood Sugar Levels
01

Keep a daily log of your blood sugar levels, meals, and physical activity.

02

Adjust your diet and medication based on your blood sugar readings.

03

Spread carbohydrate intake throughout the day.

04

Stay hydrated and avoid sugary drinks.

Strategies for Balanced Meals and Portion Control

Strategies for Balanced Meals and Portion Control
01

Divide your plate into three sections: half with non-starchy vegetables, one-quarter with lean protein, and one-quarter with whole grains or starchy vegetables.

02

Use smaller plates to help control portion sizes.

03

Eat slowly and savor each bite to help recognize when you're full.

Understanding Blood Glucose Values

Blood glucose levels, measured in millimoles per litre (mmol/L), are crucial indicators of metabolic health. This guide will help you understand various blood glucose ranges, their significance, and when to monitor your levels.

Understanding Blood Glucose Values

Normal Range

Fasting or before meals: 3.9 to 5.5 mmol/L

2 hours after meals: Less than 7.8 mmol/L


Prediabetes Range

Fasting: 5.6 to 6.9 mmol/L

2 hours after a 75g oral glucose load: 7.8 to 11.0 mmol/L


Diabetes Diagnostic Criteria

Fasting plasma glucose: 7.0 mmol/L or higher

2 hours after a 75g oral glucose load: 11.1 mmol/L or higher

Random plasma glucose: 11.1 mmol/L or higher (with diabetes symptoms)

Note: Diabetes diagnosis typically requires two abnormal test results on separate days.

Blood glucose management

Target Blood Glucose Levels for Diabetes Management

These targets may vary based on individual factors. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized goals.

General Targets:

  • Before meals: 4.0 to 7.0 mmol/L
  • 2 hours after meals: 5.0 to 10.0 mmol/L

HbA1c Levels

HbA1c reflects average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months.

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Target for most adults with diabetes

48 mmol/mol (6.5%) or below

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Diabetes

48 mmol/mol (6.5%) or above

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Prediabetes

42 to 47 mmol/mol (6.0% to 6.4%)

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Normal

Below 42 mmol/mol (6.0%)

Interpreting Blood Glucose Levels

Interpreting Blood Glucose Levels

Below 3.9 mmol/L

Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). Requires immediate action.


3.9 to 5.5 mmol/L

Normal fasting glucose.


5.6 to 6.9 mmol/L

Prediabetes range when fasting.


7.0 to 8.5 mmol/L

If fasting: Indicates diabetes

If after meals: Generally good control for people with diabetes


8.6 to 10.0 mmol/L

May require adjustment in management if consistently in this range.


Above 10.0 mmol/L

Hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar).


Above 15.0 mmol/L

Very high. Risk of complications increases.

When to Check Blood Glucose

When to Check Blood Glucose
01

Fasting (first thing in the morning)

02

Before meals

03

Before and after exercise

04

Before bed

05

When feeling unwell

06

If low blood sugar is suspected

Special Considerations

Special Considerations

Pregnancy

Targets are typically lower for gestational diabetes.


Elderly or those with comorbidities

May have higher targets to prevent hypoglycaemia.


Children

Targets vary based on age and individual factors.

Importance of Monitoring

Importance of Monitoring
01

Understand how food, activity, and medication affect your levels

02

Detect and prevent hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia

03

Make informed decisions about diet, exercise, and medication

04

Track progress in diabetes management

Remember, these are general guidelines. Your healthcare provider will set specific targets based on your individual health needs, age, and other factors. Always consult with your healthcare team before making significant changes to your diabetes management plan.

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