Ask the Diabetes Educator Archive

2/18/03

Q:
I have a friend who has type 2 diabetes, I also have type 2. My question is that every so often I will ask him how his sugar is? He will say that it is 140 or sometimes higher. I know he has a couple of beers, and I also know that he has been drinking scotch and water. My doctor has told me to keep mine between 80 and 120. Isn't 140 and higher a greater risk for complications.

A:
If you are talking about a fasting blood sugar, "yes!" Most Type 2's would do well to be between 80-90 in the AM. Studies are in process now on those we call "pre-diabetic": over 100 but under 126 range fasting. At these levels, we know complications can set in if left uncontrolled over a long period of time. A healthy lifestyle goes a long way for achieving these lower levels.