AskNadia: What is a Normal Blood Sugar Level After Eating?

Dear Nadia,

When I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, I was given lots of information. It is hard to remember it all.

What should my blood sugar be before and after I eat? 

Suzi

Dear Suzi:

Learning everything you need to know about diabetes takes time. Especially blood sugar management. This plays a vital role in preventing diabetes complications. Managing blood sugar levels effectively requires careful monitoring, especially before and after meals. 

Before Meals

The ideal blood sugar range before meals, often referred to as fasting blood sugar, is typically between 80 and 130 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), as recommended by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). However, individual targets may vary, and you must consult with your healthcare provider to determine the specific range that suits your needs.

Maintaining blood sugar levels within this target range before meals helps prevent Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and the associated complications. If left unmanaged, Hyperglycemia can lead to increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and long-term complications.

Monitoring your fasting blood sugar regularly is crucial for identifying patterns and adjusting your diabetes management plan. In addition, it can help you determine the effectiveness of your medications, lifestyle modifications, and dietary choices. 

After Meals 

Postprandial blood sugar levels, measured after a meal, provide insights into how your body processes the carbohydrates consumed. Ideally, your blood sugar should remain within a target range of 140-180 mg/dL, as the ADA recommends.

After eating, blood sugar levels tend to rise due to the breakdown and absorption of carbohydrates from the food. Therefore, monitoring post-meal blood sugar levels helps assess the impact of your dietary choices on your diabetes management. In addition, it provides an opportunity to make adjustments if necessary.

Prolonged high blood sugar levels after meals, 180 mg/d/L or greater, known as postprandial Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), can increase the risk of complications over time. Working closely with your healthcare team to establish a personalized target range based on age, overall health, and individual treatment plan is essential.

Managing Normal Blood Sugar Levels

Achieving and maintaining optimal blood sugar levels requires a comprehensive approach to diabetes management. Here are some strategies that can help:

1. Healthy Eating: Adopt a balanced diet that includes whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and various fruits and vegetables. Limit your intake of refined sugars, processed foods, and sugary beverages.
2. Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to prevent excessive carbohydrate intake, as carbohydrates significantly impact blood sugar levels.
3. Regular Physical Activity: Engage in regular exercise or physical activity as your healthcare provider recommends. Physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity and supports blood sugar control.
4. Medication and Insulin Management: If prescribed medication or insulin, ensure that you take it as directed by your healthcare provider. It is crucial to follow your prescribed regimen to keep your blood sugar levels within the target range.
5. Stress Management: Develop stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in activities you enjoy. Stress can affect blood sugar levels, so managing it effectively is essential.
6. Regular Monitoring: Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly, as your healthcare provider advises. Tracking your levels before and after meals provides valuable information for managing your diabetes effectively.

As a type 2 diabetic, maintaining blood sugar levels within the recommended ranges is vital for optimal health and well-being. Target ranges of 80-130 mg/dL before meals and 140-180 mg/dL after meals are generally recommended, but individual targets may vary. It is essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the specific ranges best suited for you. By following a well-rounded diabetes management plan, including healthy eating, portion control, regular exercise, medication management, and stress reduction, you can keep your blood sugar levels within the desired ranges, minimizing the risk of complications and improving your overall quality of life.

You may also be interested in reading this refresher article about what level your blood sugar should be before and after eating and  How to Bring Down a Blood Sugar Over 200 mg.d/L.

 

If you need to know what your A1c is based on your regular blood sugar levels, This chart will help you know where you are rather than waiting three months before you tae a test.