Blood Sugar Levels For Type 2 Diabetes Chart
Understanding Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body is unable to produce enough insulin or properly use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body use glucose for energy. When the body is unable to use insulin properly, glucose builds up in the blood, leading to high blood sugar levels. Over time, high blood sugar levels can cause damage to organs and tissues throughout the body, leading to a range of health problems.
Importance of Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels
Monitoring blood sugar levels is a crucial part of managing type 2 diabetes. By keeping track of your blood sugar levels, you can better understand how your body responds to different foods and activities, and make adjustments to your diet and lifestyle as needed. Regular blood sugar monitoring can also help you avoid complications associated with high blood sugar levels, such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and blindness.
Blood Sugar Level Targets
The American Diabetes Association recommends that most adults with type 2 diabetes aim for a blood sugar level of between 80 and 130 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) before meals, and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after meals. However, individual blood sugar targets may vary depending on factors such as age, overall health, and the presence of other medical conditions.
Blood Sugar Level Ranges
Here are the blood sugar level ranges for people with type 2 diabetes:
- Fasting blood sugar level: 80-130 mg/dL
- Postprandial (after-meal) blood sugar level: less than 180 mg/dL
- Hemoglobin A1C (average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months): less than 7%
Factors That Affect Blood Sugar Levels
Several factors can affect blood sugar levels, including:
- Diet
- Physical activity level
- Stress
- Illness or infection
- Medications
Understanding how these factors affect your blood sugar levels can help you make informed decisions about your diet and lifestyle, and make adjustments as needed to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Managing Blood Sugar Levels
There are several steps you can take to manage your blood sugar levels if you have type 2 diabetes, including:
- Eating a healthy diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein
- Engaging in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, swimming, or biking
- Taking medications as prescribed by your doctor
- Monitoring your blood sugar levels regularly and making adjustments as needed
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation
- Getting regular check-ups and screenings to monitor your overall health
Complications Associated with High Blood Sugar Levels
High blood sugar levels over time can lead to a range of complications, including:
- Heart disease and stroke
- Kidney disease and kidney failure
- Nerve damage (neuropathy)
- Eye damage and blindness (retinopathy)
- Foot damage and amputations
- Slow healing of cuts and wounds
Managing your blood sugar levels can help prevent or delay these complications, and improve your overall health and quality of life.
Conclusion
Monitoring and managing your blood sugar levels is a crucial part of managing type 2 diabetes. By keeping your blood sugar levels within a healthy range, you can reduce your risk of complications and improve your overall health and well-being.