To determine normal blood sugar levels, there are various diagnostic tests available to patients.
Checking the normal sugar (glucose) level is essential to rule out diabetes or any other condition.
Experts say that ranges can vary throughout the day, depending on the activity being performed or the foods being consumed.
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), it is recommended to monitor glucose before age 35 if you are overweight and have other risk factors.
What is the normal blood sugar level?
If you take a blood sample on an empty stomach, the normal blood sugar level ranges from 70 to 99 milligrams per deciliter on an empty stomach, according to Dr. Gilberto Hernández, president of the Diabetes Association (AGD), who cites the ADA as the body that establishes these parameters.
According to data from the Diabetic League, the normal range is between 80 and 99 milligrams, and two hours after eating, between 120 and 140, according to data provided to Prensa Libre.
How do I know if my blood sugar level is normal?
In addition to using a glucometer, Hernandez says there is another medical evaluation that can be performed to determine if the glucose range is adequate. In this case, it is the glycosylated hemoglobin test. If your blood sugar level is normal, the result should be 5.6 percent.
According to the professional, a diagnosis can also be made through an oral tolerance test performed in a laboratory, which consists of the administration of pure glucose diluted in water. “If the result is less than 140 after two hours, it could be considered a normal value,” says Hernández.
The doctor points out that these tests can be performed at any age. He also mentions that type 2 diabetes is already being reported in adolescents with a genetic predisposition (family history) or who are overweight. For this reason, it is important to make individual and family efforts to prevent this disease.
“It is important to lead a healthy lifestyle to prevent or delay diabetes,” suggests the staff of the Diabetic League.
What should I do if my glucose level is higher than normal?
According to the Diabetic League, the following levels are considered indicative of prediabetes: 100 to 125 milligrams per deciliter fasting and 140-160 two hours after eating. Regarding diabetes, the range is higher than 126 fasting and higher than 200 after eating, according to information provided by the organization.
In addition, if you experience symptoms such as constant urination, unexplained weight loss, increased thirst, increased sleepiness and fatigue, and blurred vision, you should immediately see your doctor for appropriate medical evaluation.
According to this information, Santa Rosa is the department with the highest diabetic population, with a rate of over 3,000 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Other regions with high rates of diabetes are Ixcán (Quiché), Petén, Zacapa and Baja Verapaz.
Therefore, it is crucial to prevent the disease before it becomes a chronic problem that affects your quality of life and that of your family. Finally, remember that for any questions related to your health, you should personally consult your family doctor.