Understanding Blood Sugar: Your Key to Well-being
As a Type 2 diabetes expert—when you have dealt with this disease for 16 years, you become an expert whether you want to or not— I often emphasize the fundamental role blood sugar plays in your overall health. It’s not just about keeping your energy levels up; it’s a critical factor in maintaining your body’s well-being. So, what’s the big deal about blood sugar, and why should you pay attention to it?
In my view, glucose is the starting point when discussing blood sugar. It’s a type of sugar that serves as your body’s main source of energy, derived from the carbohydrates you eat. Your cells rely on glucose to perform countless functions, and that’s where insulin comes into play. Insulin is the hormone responsible for managing glucose levels, ensuring they stay within a healthy range.
When blood glucose levels are too high or too low, it can lead to various symptoms. You might feel fatigued, experience headaches, nausea, or even face severe health issues if these imbalances persist.
Before I knew that I had type 2 diabetes, I was likely pre-diabetic for several years. One of the symptoms I noticed was being so tired after eating the midday meal. I wanted nothing more than to sleep which is hard to do in the middle of the day!
That’s why it’s crucial to recognize the signs of unstable blood sugar early on.
Learning to spot these signs can be your first step toward maintaining a healthy balance. If you’re at risk, such as having pre-diabetes, you definitely need to stay informed. Knowing how to monitor and manage your blood sugar can make all the difference in your health journey.
This isn’t just about gathering information; it’s about applying it. Monitoring your blood sugar gives you insights into how your body responds to different foods, activities, and medications. Let’s dive into the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of blood sugar monitoring, and I’ll guide you through each step.
I like the Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) devices like the Feestyle Libre 1, 2 or 3 because you can check your blood glucose level at any time. We will talk more about these types of devices in an upcoming post.
The Importance of Blood Sugar Monitoring
Keeping an eye on your blood sugar is essential, especially if you’re at risk for glucose imbalances. Monitoring isn’t just about checking numbers; it’s a proactive measure to ensure long-term health and prevent potential complications.
Who needs to monitor their blood sugar? The obvious answer is individuals with diabetes. However, it doesn’t stop there. People with pre-diabetes, women with gestational diabetes, and those with a family history of diabetes should also consider regular checks. If you’re taking medications that affect blood sugar levels or managing other health conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), monitoring becomes even more important.
How to Monitor Your Blood Sugar
Monitoring your blood sugar starts with a glucose meter, a device that measures blood sugar levels from a small drop of blood, usually taken from your fingertip. The process is simple: after a quick finger prick, you place a drop of blood onto a testing strip that’s inserted into the meter. The meter then provides a digital readout of your glucose level.
Please watch my short video below on how to do this.
Choosing the right glucose meter can seem overwhelming with so many options available. But don’t worry, I’ll help you find the best one for your needs. In the next section, we’ll go through the steps for accurate blood sugar testing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Testing Your Blood Sugar
If you’re new to blood sugar monitoring, the first thing you’ll need is a reliable glucose meter. This small device is remarkably powerful—it measures your glucose levels with just a tiny drop of blood from your fingertip. There are various meters out there, each with different features. Some are compact for on-the-go use, others have larger screens for those with vision difficulties. Choose one that suits your lifestyle.
Once you’ve selected your meter, the preparation is straightforward. Always start with clean hands to prevent infection and avoid any residue that might affect the reading. Handle the lancing device with care to ensure safety. Take your time and make sure you’re comfortable with the device before you start.
Here’s the process: insert a new test strip into the meter, prick your fingertip with the lancing device to get a drop of blood, and touch the edge of the test strip to the droplet. It’s important to follow your device’s specific instructions for accurate results. The monitor will display your blood sugar level within seconds.
How often should you test your blood sugar? This depends on your personal needs and your doctor’s recommendations. If you’re diabetic, you might need to test multiple times per day. For preventive measures, less frequent testing might suffice. Understanding your numbers is key, and that’s what we’ll cover next. I am supposed to check mine 4x a day: upon waking and after each meal.
Interpreting Results and Next Steps
Knowing your blood sugar readings isn’t just about the numbers; it’s about understanding what they mean for your health. Normal blood sugar levels typically range between 70 to 99 mg/dL when fasting and less than 140 mg/dL two hours after eating. If your readings consistently fall outside these ranges, it may be time to talk to your healthcare provider.
Tracking your blood sugar results doesn’t have to be daunting. Use a logbook or a digital app designed for this purpose. Keeping detailed records helps you and your doctor recognize patterns and make informed decisions about your health.
There will be times when your readings surprise you, for better or worse. Don’t let this unsettle you. Instead, see it as a signal. High or low readings are your cues to touch base with your healthcare professional. They’ll help you understand the reasons behind your results.
Remember, while monitoring is essential, managing your blood sugar involves a holistic approach. This includes your diet, physical activity, and stress management. Make practical changes that feel doable for you right now. You can always adjust your approach down the road. Embrace a lifestyle that supports stable blood sugar levels and your overall health journey.
By staying informed and proactive, you can take control of your blood sugar and your well-being. Keep learning, keep monitoring, and keep striving for a healthier you.