Understanding Blood Sugar
What Is Blood Sugar?
Blood sugar, or blood glucose, is the main sugar found in your blood and your body's primary energy source. Glucose comes from food and is carried to cells through the bloodstream. Insulin helps cells absorb glucose for energy.
Normal Blood Sugar Ranges
Normal fasting blood glucose is 70-99 mg/dL. Prediabetes is 100-125 mg/dL, and diabetes is diagnosed at 126 mg/dL or higher. Two hours after eating, normal blood sugar should be below 140 mg/dL. HbA1c should be below 5.7% for non-diabetics.
Understanding HbA1c
HbA1c measures the percentage of hemoglobin proteins coated with sugar, reflecting average blood sugar over 90 days. An HbA1c of 5.7-6.4% indicates prediabetes, while 6.5% or higher suggests diabetes.
Factors Affecting Blood Sugar
Diet has the most immediate impact, especially carbohydrates. Physical activity helps cells use insulin more efficiently. Stress hormones can raise glucose. Sleep deprivation, illness, medications, and hormonal changes also affect levels.
Preventing Blood Sugar Problems
Maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber, whole grains, and lean proteins. Exercise at least 150 minutes per week. Maintain a healthy weight. Early detection of prediabetes allows lifestyle interventions that can prevent type 2 diabetes.