There's a big difference between checking your blood glucose because you know you should, and testing because you know why you should. It's not unlike using a thermometer. You know that when you feel hot, you might have a fever. So you take your temperature with a thermometer. If the reading is above 98.6°F, you take steps to help bring your temperature back to normal.


Your blood glucose monitor, like a thermometer, is also a tool to help you make decisions. It gives you a reading. But, as with the thermometer, the key is knowing what to do if you have to act on the results.


Target Blood Glucose Results

Target ranges are different for different people. Your health care providers can help you set a realistic target level. In a healthy person who does not have diabetes, blood glucose is typically 70-110 mg/dl before a meal and less than 120 mg/dl two hours after a meal. For people with diabetes, a healthy range can be a bit different. Some basic target ranges include:
Before a meal (pre-prandial): 90-130 mg/dL*

2 hours after a meal (post-prandial): less than 180 mg/dL*
Before exercise: at least 70 mg/dL; not more than 300 mg/dL; Type 1 should use caution if above 250 and having ketones.


You doctor will tell you the target range that makes sense for you. But, in general, the key to feeling good for most people with diabetes is to stay between 80 mg/dL and 140 mg/dL.* That is when insulin and blood glucose (sugar) levels are balanced and your body is working at its peak. Use your blood glucose test results to make choices that help you stay in the range that makes you feel your best.


In addition to daily blood glucose monitoring, the A1c test (done at a doctor's office) provides a three-month average of blood glucose results.