Authored by Heaven Stubblefield in Health Care
Published on 10-31-2009
Having a normal glucose level is very important for everyone, but is even more essential for those that have glucose related diseases like Diabetes. However, even healthy people who do not ensure that the recommended normal glucose levels are maintained are putting themselves at risk. Here is an assessment of what normal glucose levels should be in your body.
If something is not done to keep the blood sugar at healthy levels, then there is a good chance of eventually becoming sick. That could possibly even lead to serious problems like a coma or death. In order to suffer complications, the glucose levels will have to be constantly on the high or low side. This is something completely avoidable.
There are many warning signs that the glucose levels are not normal, which should be taken note of so that the proper action can be taken. If the blood glucose levels are too low, then you will have symptoms such as dizziness, nausea and shaking, as well as risking passing out unconscious. If the glucose levels remain above average then you will notice problems like kidney failure, diabetic comas, blindness and even amputations can become necessary.
In order to achieve and maintain normal glucose levels in your body, you must first know what those numbers are. Although the ideal glucose level can fluctuate slightly from one person to the next, there are some general averages and guidelines. However, in general it is much more important to control higher than normal glucose levels since those have the more serious consequences and the damage done may be irreversible. Low blood glucose levels are also easier to take care of and are quickly normalized. As a general rule, when not eating the target glucose levels are below 100, but never should be below 40. One hour after eating, the normal level is around 140 and two hours after eating about 120.
Maintaining normal glucose levels in your body can only be done for sure if you take the time to test the sugar level. This is done with a monitoring device and the best times to test the levels are as soon as you wake up from a night’s sleep, before meals and right before going to bed for the night. Those that have diabetes or are at high risk of developing the disease should also test glucose levels about an hour after eating a meal and then again at two hours after a meal. In addition, it is also helpful to keep a journal of glucose levels so you can see where problems occur. That allows for solutions to be found.
In reality, it is not difficult to maintain normal glucose levels. The best way to keep the levels normal is to exercise regularly and eat nutritional, balanced meals. If you tend towards higher glucose levels and have trouble keeping them at normal values, then it is a good idea to leave out foods which have high amounts of sugar and starch in them. In some cases, though, even the healthiest of diets and regular exercising are not enough to maintain normal glucose levels. Then it becomes necessary to take medications, which can be either insulin shots or oral medicine.
