Normal Blood Sugar Levels Chart For Type 2
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In the United States, approximately 34.2 million people have diabetes, and 90-95% of them have type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes occurs when your body doesn't produce enough insulin or can't use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body regulate blood sugar levels.
Blood sugar levels
Blood sugar levels refer to the amount of glucose in your blood. Glucose is a type of sugar that is the primary source of energy for your body. When you eat, your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose, which enters your bloodstream. Your pancreas then releases insulin, which helps your cells absorb glucose from your blood and use it for energy.
When you have type 2 diabetes, your body can't use insulin properly, which leads to high blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels can damage your organs over time, so it's essential to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly.
Normal blood sugar levels
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that people with type 2 diabetes aim for the following blood sugar levels:
- Fasting blood sugar (before meals): 80-130 mg/dL
- After-meal blood sugar (two hours after eating): less than 180 mg/dL
Your doctor may recommend different blood sugar levels based on your individual needs and medical history.
Monitoring your blood sugar levels
To monitor your blood sugar levels, your doctor may recommend that you use a blood glucose meter. A blood glucose meter is a small device that measures your blood sugar levels at home. You prick your finger with a lancet to get a drop of blood, and then you place the blood on a test strip. The test strip is inserted into the meter, which then displays your blood sugar level.
You should monitor your blood sugar levels regularly, as directed by your doctor. Keeping track of your blood sugar levels can help you make informed decisions about your diet, exercise, and medication. It can also help you detect and treat high or low blood sugar levels before they cause complications.
Factors that can affect blood sugar levels
Many factors can affect your blood sugar levels, including:
- Food: Eating carbohydrates can raise your blood sugar levels, while protein and fat generally have little effect.
- Exercise: Physical activity can lower your blood sugar levels, so it's essential to monitor your blood sugar levels before, during, and after exercise.
- Medications: Some medications, such as insulin and oral diabetes medications, can lower your blood sugar levels.
- Stress: Stress can raise your blood sugar levels, so it's essential to manage your stress levels.
Complications of high blood sugar levels
If your blood sugar levels are consistently high, you may be at risk for complications, including:
- Heart disease and stroke
- Kidney disease
- Nerve damage
- Eye damage and blindness
- Foot damage and amputation
It's essential to manage your blood sugar levels to prevent these complications from occurring.
Managing your blood sugar levels
To manage your blood sugar levels, your doctor may recommend the following:
- Diet: Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help you control your blood sugar levels.
- Exercise: Physical activity can help you lower your blood sugar levels and improve your overall health.
- Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medications to help you manage your blood sugar levels.
- Monitoring: Regularly monitoring your blood sugar levels can help you make informed decisions about your diet, exercise, and medication.
Conclusion
Monitoring your blood sugar levels is essential for managing your type 2 diabetes. The ADA recommends aiming for a fasting blood sugar level of 80-130 mg/dL and an after-meal blood sugar level of less than 180 mg/dL. Many factors can affect your blood sugar levels, including food, exercise, medications, and stress. If your blood sugar levels are consistently high, you may be at risk for complications, such as heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, eye damage, and foot damage. It's essential to manage your blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, medications, and regular monitoring to prevent these complications from occurring.
