Should You Worry About Your Blood Sugar Levels? A Guide for Young Adults

Excessive worrying?

Hello Doctor, my fasting blood glucose this year was 97 mg/dL (measured in the morning, last year it was 93 mg/dL).
I usually control my intake of sugary drinks, having a hand-shaken beverage at most once a week.
My BMI is 18.
I went to the lab for an HbA1c test out of concern, and the result was 5.3%.

1.
Although this is within the normal range, 97 is just a little away from 100, which worries me.
Should I really be concerned about this, or is it sufficient to be within the normal range regardless of the specific values?
2.
Is an HbA1c of 5.3% considered average for a 24-year-old, or is there a need to lower it further?
3.
I have been increasing my intake of fruits and vegetables and reducing high-sugar foods, along with doing 30 minutes of aerobic exercise daily.
This should help with insulin sensitivity, right? Thank you, Doctor.

Ben, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/16

Dr. Li Jian reply Internal Medicine

Current test results are all within normal ranges, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle does not warrant excessive concern.

Reply Date: 2022/02/16

More Info

It's great that you're taking an active interest in your health, especially regarding your blood sugar levels. Let's break down your concerns regarding your fasting blood sugar and HbA1c levels, and I'll provide some insights based on current medical understanding.

1. Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: Your fasting blood sugar of 97 mg/dL is indeed within the normal range, which is typically defined as less than 100 mg/dL. However, it is important to note that values between 100 and 125 mg/dL are classified as "impaired fasting glucose," which can indicate a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes. While your current level is not alarming, it is close to that threshold. The key takeaway is that while you should be aware of your levels, a single reading does not define your health. It’s essential to monitor trends over time rather than fixate on a single measurement.

2. HbA1c Levels: An HbA1c of 5.3% is considered normal and indicates good blood sugar control over the past two to three months. For most adults, an HbA1c below 5.7% is deemed normal, while levels between 5.7% and 6.4% indicate prediabetes. Therefore, your level is well within the normal range and does not suggest any immediate concern. In fact, for a 24-year-old, this is a healthy level, and there is no need to lower it further unless advised by a healthcare professional.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: It's commendable that you are making dietary changes by increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables while reducing high-sugar foods. Regular aerobic exercise, such as your 30 minutes of daily activity, is also beneficial for improving insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health. These lifestyle choices can significantly impact your long-term health and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

4. Monitoring and Future Considerations: Given your current levels and healthy lifestyle, you may not need to worry excessively. However, it’s wise to continue regular health check-ups, including blood sugar monitoring, especially if you have a family history of diabetes or other risk factors. If you notice any changes in your health or symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, or fatigue, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider.

5. Understanding Risk Factors: As a young adult, it’s important to be aware of risk factors for diabetes, which include obesity, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and family history. Since your BMI is on the lower side (18), and you are active, you are likely at a lower risk. However, maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial for long-term health.

In summary, while your fasting blood sugar is close to the upper limit of normal, your HbA1c is well within a healthy range. Continue with your healthy lifestyle choices, and keep an eye on your blood sugar levels during your annual check-ups. If you have any further concerns or if your levels change, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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