Sugar is an essential carbohydrate that provides the body with the energy it needs to function correctly. The average adult human body contains about 4 grams of sugar per liter of blood, which is equivalent to about one teaspoonful of sugar.
What is Blood Sugar?
Blood sugar, also known as blood glucose, is the amount of sugar that is present in the bloodstream. Glucose comes from the food that we eat, and it is transported to the body’s cells to provide energy.
Insulin is a hormone that is produced by the pancreas, which regulates blood sugar levels by allowing glucose to enter the cells.
Normal Blood Sugar Levels
Normal blood sugar levels are essential for overall health and well-being. The American Diabetes Association recommends that a person with diabetes should maintain a fasting glucose level between 80-130mg/dL.
A person’s blood sugar levels can fluctuate throughout the day, depending on the time of day, what they have eaten, and their activity level. However, the following are general ranges for normal blood sugar levels:.
- Fasting blood sugar level: 70-99 mg/dL
- After-meal (postprandial) blood sugar level: Less than 140 mg/dL after two hours
High Blood Sugar Levels
High blood sugar levels, also known as hyperglycemia, can be caused by various factors, including overeating, physical inactivity, and certain medications.
Hyperglycemia can cause several health complications, such as increased risk for heart disease, stroke, and nerve damage. The following are general ranges for high blood sugar levels:.
- Fasting blood sugar level: 100-125mg/dL
- After-meal (postprandial) blood sugar level: Over 200mg/dL after two hours
Low Blood Sugar Levels
Low blood sugar levels, also known as hypoglycemia, can be caused by several factors, such as skipping meals, drinking alcohol, and taking certain medications.
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Sugar: What are the normal levels?
Hypoglycemia can be dangerous if left untreated and can cause symptoms, such as shakiness, confusion, and lightheadedness. The following are general ranges for low blood sugar levels:.
- Fasting blood sugar level: Less than 70mg/dL
- After-meal (postprandial) blood sugar level: Not applicable
What are the Symptoms of High Blood Sugar?
Here are some of the symptoms of high blood sugar:.
- Frequent urination
- Thirst
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Headache
- Lack of concentration
- Nausea/vomiting
- Dry mouth
What are the Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar?
Here are some of the symptoms of low blood sugar:.
- Anxiety
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Dizziness
- Hunger
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Irritability
What are the Causes of High Blood Sugar?
Here are some of the causes of high blood sugar:.
- Overeating
- Inactivity
- Illness/infection
- Stress
- Medications
- Uncontrolled diabetes
What are the Causes of Low Blood Sugar?
Here are some of the causes of low blood sugar:.
- Skipping meals
- Drinking alcohol
- Taking too much insulin or diabetes medication
- Exercise
- Medications
Conclusion
Understanding normal blood sugar values is an essential aspect of maintaining overall health and well-being, especially for people with diabetes.
The key to maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is to eat a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, manage stress, and take medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
