Trying to understand what your blood sugar numbers mean? Asking questions is a great start. The question below came from www.FOODPICKER.org. I hope my answer will bring some clarity…
Q: My fasting glucose number was 127. Does this sound like pre-diabetes or diabetes? What should I do to control by blood sugar?
A: There are multiple tests that can be used to determine blood glucose levels: 1) Fasting Blood Glucose Test, 2) Hemoglobin A1C Test, 3) Oral Glucose Tolerance Test, and 4) Random (or Casual) Plasma Glucose. In order to diagnose diabetes, a physician needs 2 of the above tests to show glucose levels in the diabetes range along with common symptoms of diabetes. See the table below for tests and ranges:
| Blood Glucose Tests | Optimal Ranges | Pre-Diabetes | Diabetes |
| Fasting Blood
Glucose Test |
70-99 mg/dL | 100-125 mg/dL | ≥126 mg/dL |
| Hemoglobin A1C
(Hb A1C) |
<6.0% | 6.0-6.5% | ≥6.5% |
| Random Plasma
Glucose Test |
—– | —– | ≥200 mg/dL |
| Oral Glucose
Tolerance Test |
<140 mg/dL | 140-199 mg/dL | ≥200 mg/dL |
As you will notice, a fasting blood glucose level of 127 mg/dL does indicate Diabetes, however, I encourage you to speak to your physician as only he can diagnose you. He should also be able to give you information about a local diabetes education class for training and information on self-management and diet.
Below are some of the common Diabetes symptoms. If you have noticed any of these, you will want to mention them to your physician so that he can diagnose and treat you properly.
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Excessive hunger
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow healing sores
- Frequent infections- skin, vaginal, bladder
There are many ways to manage your blood glucose (sugar) levels. Diet is a primary method of control and a Dietitian or Certified Diabetes Educator can provide detailed information about carbohydrate counting. You physician may choose to use a medication or insulin to manage your glucose levels. Exercise and weight loss, if overweight, have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and aid in diabetes management.
Kudos to you! (well, not the chocolate candy bar) for asking questions to take control of your health. Speaking with your physician about your numbers and symptoms is the next step. Keep asking questions and stay proactive for optimal health!
