What is the optimal blood sugar level before bed?

If you have diabetes, it is appropriate to wear good blood sugar control. Lack of control can lead to health problems. In the long term, high levels can damage nerves, blood vessels, eyes and kidneys. Low blood sugar is dangerous and should be treated as soon as possible.

The sugars in carbohydrates are broken down into glucose in the body. Once in the bloodstream, the pancreas secretes insulin, which helps it penetrate the cells. Diabetes means that this hormone does not work properly, so these values ​​can be easily influenced.

The normal fasting blood glucose concentrations are from 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L) to 100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L). When fasting blood glucose levels are between 100 and 125 mg/dL (5.6 and 6.9 mmol/L), lifestyle changes are recommended to control levels. If it is greater than 126 mg/dL (7 mmol/L) in 2 tests, diabetes is diagnosed, says the World Health Organization (WHO).

When is the best time to test your blood sugar?

If you have diabetes, it is best to consult your doctor. How often should you check your blood sugar?. If you have type 1 diabetes, it is advisable to eat at least 4 times a day, recommends the US Library of Medicine.

This is usually convenient before meals, when waking up and before bed. Think that you will have to spend about 8 hours sleeping, during which time you will not be able to check how you are doing.

The medical site also advises doing this when:

• eating out, especially if you ate foods you wouldn’t normally eat
• If you feel sick
• Before and after training
• If you are under a lot of stress
• If you eat too much
• If you are taking new medications that may affect your blood sugar

Recommended blood sugar level

He optimal blood sugar levels It depends on each person. In the case of diabetes, this is a value that is set as a goal and varies depending on the time of day, explains the US National Public Health Agency (CDC).

Although an expert will note these numbers for everyone, there are classic values. Sanitas representatives note that the ideal blood sugar level usually falls between these numbers:

• 80–120 mg/dL upon waking and before meals
• 180 or less, 2 hours after eating
• 100–140 mg/dL at bedtime

Those with values ​​above or below these numbers deserve consultation with a doctor.