Most people stare at those numbers and have no idea what they’re actually looking at. So let me break it down the way I explain it to patients every single day.
The Two Numbers That Matter
When you check your blood sugar at home, you’re looking at your current glucose level measured in mg/dL. Here’s a simple way to think about it:
- Under 100 — Normal fasting range. You’re good.
- 100 to 125 — Pre-diabetic range. Pay attention here.
- 126 and above — Diabetic range on a fasting test.
After You Eat
Blood sugar naturally rises after meals. That’s normal. What we watch for is how high it goes and how fast it comes back down. A reading under 180 two hours after eating is generally considered acceptable for most people managing diabetes.
The Number Your Doctor Really Watches
Your A1C is a three-month average of your blood sugar levels. Think of it like a report card. Under 5.7 is normal. 5.7 to 6.4 is pre-diabetic. 6.5 and above is diabetic range.
What You Should Do
Check your numbers at the same time every day. Write them down or use an app. Bring that log to every appointment. Your doctor can adjust your treatment plan much more effectively when they can see a pattern instead of just a snapshot.
Any questions? Drop them in the comments. That’s what I’m here for.
— Jamie RN