Blood Sugar Levels: What's Normal? A Complete Guide by Dr. Rick Cohen, M.D.
Understanding your a1c range and blood sugar levels is crucial for maintaining optimal health. As a medical professional specializing in metabolic health, I'll break down everything you need to know about normal good blood sugar levels and what they mean for your overall wellbeing as well as signs of sugar diabetes.
Normal Blood Sugar Level Ranges
Fasting Blood Sugar (Morning, Before Eating)
- Normal: 70-99 mg/dL
- Prediabetes: 100-125 mg/dL
- Diabetes: 126 mg/dL or higher
2 Hours After Meals (Postprandial)
- Normal: Less than 140 mg/dL
- Prediabetes: 140-199 mg/dL
- Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher
Random Blood Sugar Test
- Normal: Below 140 mg/dL
- Concerning: Above 140 mg/dL
- Diabetes likely: Above 200 mg/dL
Understanding Your A1C Levels
The A1C test measures your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months to spot high glucose levels:
- Normal: Below 5.7%
- Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
- Diabetes: 6.5% or higher
Key Times to Check Blood Sugar
1. First Thing in the Morning (Fasting)
2. Before Meals
3. 2 Hours After Starting Meals
4. Before Exercise
5. Before Bedtime
Factors That Affect Blood Sugar Levels
Things That Can Raise Blood Sugar:
- High-carbohydrate foods
- Physical inactivity
- Stress
- Dehydration
- Illness or infection
- Certain medications
- Lack of sleep and too much blue light exposure
- Dawn phenomenon (early morning hormones)
Things That Can Lower Blood Sugar:
- Physical activity
- Missing meals
- Alcohol consumption
- Too much diabetes medication
- Extreme temperatures
- Certain medications
Warning Signs of Blood Sugar Issues
High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia):
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia):
- Shakiness
- Sweating
- Confusion
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Hunger
- Irritability
Maintaining Healthy Blood Sugar Levels
Dietary Strategies:
1. Balance macronutrients
2. Choose low glycemic foods
3. Eat regular, properly timed meals
4. Include fiber-rich foods
5. Stay hydrated
Lifestyle Factors:
1. Regular exercise
2. Stress management
3. Adequate sleep
4. Consistent meal timing
5. Regular monitoring
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Fasting blood sugar consistently above 126 mg/dL
- Post-meal blood sugar regularly above 200 mg/dL
- Symptoms of severe high or low blood sugar
- Unexplained changes in blood sugar patterns
Special Considerations
For Athletes:
- Monitor before, during, and after exercise
- Adjust nutrition based on activity level
- Stay hydrated
- Keep quick-acting carbs available
For Older Adults:
- More frequent monitoring may be needed
- Different target ranges may apply
- Medication interactions should be considered
- Regular medical supervision is important
Tips for Accurate Blood Sugar Testing
1. Wash hands thoroughly
2. Use fresh test strips
3. Ensure meter is calibrated
4. Test at consistent times
5. Keep a detailed log
Long-term Management Strategies
Daily Practices:
- Regular monitoring
- Consistent meal timing
- Physical activity
- Stress management
- Adequate sleep and reduce blue light exposure at night
Regular Medical Care:
- Quarterly A1C tests
- Annual comprehensive metabolic panel
- Regular eye exams
- Foot examinations
- Cardiovascular checkups
The Bottom Line
Understanding and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is essential for optimal health. Regular monitoring, healthy lifestyle choices, and working closely with healthcare providers are key components of successful blood sugar management. Remember that individual targets may vary based on age, health conditions, and other factors.
The Blood Sugar Reboot Journey
Dr. Rick Cohen's 21-Day Blood Sugar Reboot offers a comprehensive approach to blood sugar management. By following the structured program and implementing the recommended strategies, many participants report significant improvements in their blood sugar control and overall health.
➡️ Order Dr. Rick Cohen's 21-Day Blood Sugar Reboot Book
Remember: This guide provides general information about blood sugar levels. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and target ranges based on your individual health situation.