How to interpret blood sugar readings?
Interpreting blood sugar readings is an important part of managing diabetes. The goal is to keep blood sugar levels within a target range, which is typically set by a healthcare provider based on the individual’s age, overall health, and other factors.
For people with diabetes who use Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose (SMBG), interpreting blood sugar readings involves checking blood sugar levels at regular intervals, such as before and after meals or at bedtime. The readings can then be used to make adjustments to diet, medication, and physical activity as needed to keep blood sugar levels in the target range.
When interpreting blood sugar readings, it’s important to understand what the numbers mean. Blood sugar levels are typically measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L), depending on the country. In Singapore, blood sugar levels are measured in mmol/L.
For people with diabetes, the target blood sugar range varies depending on the time of day and other factors. Generally, before meals, blood sugar levels should be between 4.4 and 7.0 mmol/L, while 2 hours after meals, blood sugar levels should be less than 10.0 mmol/L. However, these targets may vary based on individual circumstances, so it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate target range.
Making adjustments to manage blood sugar levels may involve changes in diet, physical activity, medication, or insulin dosages. It’s important to follow the guidance of a healthcare provider when making adjustments and to regularly monitor blood sugar levels to ensure that the changes are effective in keeping blood sugar levels within the target range.
For people who use Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems, interpreting blood sugar readings involves analyzing the data provided by the CGM system. CGM systems continuously measure glucose levels throughout the day and night and provide real-time feedback on blood sugar trends and patterns. This can help identify trends that may not be apparent with traditional SMBG and may help with making adjustments to manage blood sugar levels. However, CGM systems require a significant investment and may not be suitable for everyone.
