Blood Glucose Levels Chart For Type 2 Diabetes
Introduction
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes glucose. It is important to monitor your blood glucose levels regularly to manage your diabetes effectively. A blood glucose levels chart can help you keep track of your readings and make adjustments to your treatment plan as necessary.
What is a Blood Glucose Levels Chart?
A blood glucose levels chart is a tool that shows the range of blood glucose levels that are considered normal, as well as the levels that are considered high or low. It can help you track your blood glucose levels over time and make adjustments to your treatment plan as necessary.
Normal Blood Glucose Levels
The normal range for blood glucose levels is between 70 and 130 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) before meals, and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after meals. If your blood glucose levels fall within this range, you are considered to have good control of your diabetes.
High Blood Glucose Levels
If your blood glucose levels are consistently above the normal range, you may have high blood glucose levels, also known as hyperglycemia. This can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Symptoms of high blood glucose levels include increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, and fatigue.
Low Blood Glucose Levels
If your blood glucose levels are consistently below the normal range, you may have low blood glucose levels, also known as hypoglycemia. This can also lead to serious complications if left untreated. Symptoms of low blood glucose levels include shakiness, irritability, confusion, and dizziness.
Blood Glucose Levels Chart
A blood glucose levels chart typically shows the following ranges:
- Normal range: 70-130 mg/dL before meals, and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after meals
- High range: above 180 mg/dL
- Low range: below 70 mg/dL
It is important to work with your healthcare provider to determine your target blood glucose levels based on your individual needs and medical history.
Monitoring Your Blood Glucose Levels
Monitoring your blood glucose levels regularly is an important part of managing your type 2 diabetes. Your healthcare provider may recommend that you check your blood glucose levels at specific times throughout the day, such as before meals or bedtime. Keeping a log of your blood glucose readings can help you and your healthcare provider make adjustments to your treatment plan as necessary.
Factors That Affect Blood Glucose Levels
Many factors can affect your blood glucose levels, including:
- Diet
- Exercise
- Stress
- Illness
- Medications
- Alcohol
- Smoking
It is important to be aware of these factors and how they can affect your blood glucose levels, and to work with your healthcare provider to make adjustments to your treatment plan as necessary.
Conclusion
A blood glucose levels chart can be a valuable tool for managing your type 2 diabetes. By monitoring your blood glucose levels regularly and making adjustments to your treatment plan as necessary, you can help prevent serious complications and maintain good control of your diabetes.