Fluctuating Morning Blood Sugar Levels: What Do They Mean?

The blood glucose levels measured in the morning were different on two occasions?

Hello, last year my blood sugar level was 87 during the health check, and this year it was 97.
I have a blood glucose meter at home, and I measured it myself: the first reading was 96, the second was 107, and two hours after eating it was 71.
Today it was 110.
I'm a bit worried.
After organizing some things and measuring again after 5 minutes, it was 94.
What do these numbers indicate?

nana, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/20

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine

1.
If last year's fasting plasma glucose level was 87 mg/dL and this year's fasting plasma glucose level is 97 mg/dL, both values are actually less than 100 mg/dL; theoretically, they are considered normal.
2.
If the glucose meter shows a fasting capillary blood glucose level of 96 mg/dL and 107 mg/dL; and two hours postprandial is 71 mg/dL.
Today, a random blood glucose test showed 110 mg/dL, and after light activity, it measured 94 mg/dL five minutes later; theoretically, this is also normal.
3.
Please note: Generally, a normal fasting plasma glucose level is <100 mg/dL.
If it is between 100 and 126 mg/dL, it is classified as prediabetes or impaired glucose tolerance; this indicates a risk of developing diabetes.
If it is ≥126 mg/dL, type 2 diabetes should be suspected, and further testing is needed for clarification.
The postprandial blood glucose level should ideally be <140 mg/dL.
Overall, the onset of diabetes does not occur suddenly but gradually over the years; therefore, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and dietary habits.
Consume normal foods, avoid overeating, steer clear of commercially available beverages and foods, ensure adequate sleep, and engage in regular physical activity to achieve good blood glucose control and prevent the onset of diabetes.

Reply Date: 2015/07/20

More Info

Understanding fluctuating blood sugar levels, especially in the context of your recent health checks, is crucial for maintaining overall health. Your reported blood sugar values indicate a range of readings that can be interpreted in several ways.
Firstly, let’s break down the numbers you provided. A fasting blood sugar level of 87 mg/dL is considered normal, while a level of 97 mg/dL is on the higher end of the normal range but still acceptable. However, the subsequent readings you mentioned, particularly the 107 mg/dL and 110 mg/dL, suggest that you may be experiencing some degree of insulin resistance or impaired glucose tolerance. The American Diabetes Association defines prediabetes as a fasting blood sugar level between 100 mg/dL and 125 mg/dL. Therefore, your readings are approaching this threshold, which could indicate a need for lifestyle modifications or further monitoring.

The fluctuations you observed, such as a postprandial (after eating) reading of 71 mg/dL and then a subsequent reading of 94 mg/dL, may reflect how your body is responding to food intake and how effectively your insulin is managing glucose levels. It’s not uncommon for blood sugar levels to vary throughout the day based on factors such as food intake, physical activity, stress, and even hydration status.
The fact that you are measuring your blood sugar at home is a positive step. It allows you to monitor your levels more closely and understand how different foods and activities affect your glucose levels. However, it’s essential to ensure that you are using the blood glucose meter correctly, as improper usage can lead to inaccurate readings.
Given your family history of diabetes and your own fluctuating readings, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional. They may recommend further testing, such as an HbA1c test, which provides an average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. This test can help determine if you are at risk for developing diabetes or if you are already in the prediabetic range.

In addition to medical evaluations, lifestyle changes can significantly impact blood sugar levels. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and maintaining a healthy weight are all critical factors in managing blood sugar levels. Reducing intake of refined sugars and carbohydrates can also help stabilize your glucose levels.

Lastly, it’s important to consider other symptoms or health issues you may be experiencing, such as fatigue, increased thirst, or frequent urination, which can be associated with high blood sugar levels. If you notice any concerning symptoms, seek medical advice promptly.

In summary, your fluctuating blood sugar levels suggest that you may be at risk for prediabetes. Monitoring your levels, consulting with a healthcare provider, and making lifestyle changes can help you manage your blood sugar effectively and reduce the risk of developing diabetes in the future.

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