Table of Contents
Monitoring blood glucose levels is essential for managing diabetes and maintaining overall health. Understanding what your glucose numbers indicate can help you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your treatment plan. Personalized glucose targets vary based on individual health conditions, age, and lifestyle.
What Are Glucose Targets?
Glucose targets are specific blood sugar levels that a person aims to achieve to stay within a healthy range. These targets are set by healthcare professionals and can differ from person to person. They serve as guidelines to prevent complications associated with high or low blood sugar levels.
Understanding Your Numbers
Blood glucose levels are typically measured using a blood test or a continuous glucose monitor. Normal fasting blood sugar levels are generally below 100 mg/dL. Post-meal levels should usually be below 180 mg/dL. However, individual targets may be adjusted based on age, health status, and risk factors.
Factors Influencing Personalized Targets
Several factors influence personalized glucose targets, including:
- Age and life expectancy
- Presence of other health conditions
- Risk of hypoglycemia
- Duration of diabetes
- Individual lifestyle and preferences