Managing blood glucose levels is crucial for people with diabetes. Here are key strategies:
Use a blood glucose meter to keep track of your levels. Regular monitoring helps understand how different foods and activities affect your blood sugar.
Include a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats in each meal to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating. Use smaller plates and measure portions if necessary.
Eat at regular intervals to prevent blood sugar spikes and dips. Aim for three main meals and healthy snacks in between.
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.
Keep a daily log of your blood sugar levels, meals, and physical activity.
Adjust your diet and medication based on your blood sugar readings.
Spread carbohydrate intake throughout the day.
Stay hydrated and avoid sugary drinks.
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.
Use smaller plates to help control portion sizes.
Eat slowly and savor each bite to help recognize when you're full.
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.
Fasting or before meals: 3.9 to 5.5 mmol/L
2 hours after meals: Less than 7.8 mmol/L
Fasting: 5.6 to 6.9 mmol/L
2 hours after a 75g oral glucose load: 7.8 to 11.0 mmol/L
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.
These targets may vary based on individual factors. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized goals.
HbA1c reflects average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months.
48 mmol/mol (6.5%) or below
48 mmol/mol (6.5%) or above
42 to 47 mmol/mol (6.0% to 6.4%)
Below 42 mmol/mol (6.0%)
Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). Requires immediate action.
Normal fasting glucose.
Prediabetes range when fasting.
If fasting: Indicates diabetes
If after meals: Generally good control for people with diabetes
May require adjustment in management if consistently in this range.
Hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar).
Very high. Risk of complications increases.
Fasting (first thing in the morning)
Before meals
Before and after exercise
Before bed
When feeling unwell
If low blood sugar is suspected
Targets are typically lower for gestational diabetes.
May have higher targets to prevent hypoglycaemia.
Targets vary based on age and individual factors.
Understand how food, activity, and medication affect your levels
Detect and prevent hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia
Make informed decisions about diet, exercise, and medication
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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