Ask the Diabetes Educator Archive

2/23/04

Q:
My parents have several blood sugar testing kits and none tell them approximately what a normal reading would be. Could you elaborate on this?

A:
Blood sugar ranges are generally 70-140 for the entire day, with variances. Fasting blood sugars for most should be under 100; around "80" is average or "normal." With diabetes, good control 2 hours after a meal can be anywhere from 120 (pregnancy) to 150. Depending on your individual health history, your physician may have other goals for you. The key here is to ask: "What are my blood sugar goals for the entire day?" Most people do not know, nor question what they're looking for by "sticking" themselves. No one can truly manage a disease except for the person "wearing" it. Don't hesitate to ask management questions.