Many people may not realize that a diet rich in simple carbohydrates can be detrimental to one’s health. People who consume large quantities of carbohydrates are taking a risk with their health. It is crucial to understand what the normal blood glucose range is, how to read an A1C levels chart and a blood glucose levels chart.
As a substance itself, there is nothing wrong with glucose. A balanced level of glucose is needed in order for the body to function properly. Diabetes is a chronic disease in which the body is unable to produce enough or use its own insulin, so blood sugar levels go too high. It is a serious condition that needs strict attention and ongoing communication with doctors or medical professionals to manage efficiently. Prolonged high blood sugar levels can lead to blindness, stroke, paralysis and possible limb amputation. People need a better education about what they eat in order to avoid potential long-term complications and better general health. There are various tests that can be carried out to determine blood sugar levels and how well the body responds to glucose.
(click on chart to embigify) One of the tests often ordered by the doctor is the fasting blood sugar test. This test is usually done first thing in the morning before eating or drinking anything. The person has to abstain from eating about eight to ten hours prior to the test as well. After the blood is drawn, it is tested to evaluate the blood glucose level. This helps determine whether the patient has normal blood glucose levels, insulin resistance or full-blown diabetes. The test can be repeated at various times to see if the results are consistent. It can also help the doctor determine the best course of action if the patient keeps a blood sugar level chart. He or she should log each blood sugar reading they get from their home glucometer and list all of the foods they ate that day as well.
When sugars are dangerously high, the patient may need a series of insulin adjustments to bring it down to normal levels. A diabetic also has to be aware of too low blood sugar levels, this is an extremely dangerous situation for a diabetic as well and can lead to coma or even death. Diabetics need a blood sugar chart to monitor their blood glucose levels on a daily basis and an A1C levels chart shows the average of that blood sugar range over time.
The A1C is another test the doctor will order for the diabetic patient. It is typically performed every three months and is done with a simple blood draw. The A1C is like a snapshot that allows the doctor to see the average blood sugar levels for the last three months. Although it misses the dangerous spikes and drops, it does give a good estimate of overall control. A very good explanation of this test can be found here.
Diabetics would do well to follow a regular exercise routine. Regular exercise will help to keep blood sugar levels balanced and closer to the blood glucose normal range. Physical exercise allows the body to burn off excess glucose and to use insulin more effectively.
Diabetes can quickly get out of control with a high carbohydrate diet and too little exercise. By making the right food choices and engaging in regular physical activity, a diabetic can keep their blood sugar levels much more stable.
*Excellent sources of information are: A1C test and Plot your blood sugar with Excel
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