Most people continue to think that sugar is bad for health. On the contrary, the body needs sugar to function. The body converts dietary sugar into glucose that is used for energy. Glucose is the primary source of energy for our body. Blood sugar levels reflect how much glucose is present in the blood.
Normal blood sugar levels are crucial for energy production and cell function. This blog will discuss what normal levels of sugar in the blood are, what normal blood sugar levels are for different ages, and when to see a diabetes specialist doctor.
What is a Normal Level of Sugar in the Blood?
The normal level of blood sugar is a range in which the body is able to control blood sugar levels without much difficulty. Sugar levels are measured in milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL) in the blood. The normal level of sugar in the blood for persons who are healthy or do not have diabetes is between 90 and 110 mg/dL.
Blood Sugar Levels Chart for Different Age Groups
Normal blood sugar levels vary based on age groups. The following tables contain the normal level of sugar and diabetic blood sugar level for children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults.
1. Normal Levels of Sugar for Children ( Below 6 Years of Age)
|
Time |
Normal Level of Sugar in Blood. |
Diabetic Blood Sugar Levels. |
|---|---|---|
|
Fasting |
80-180 mg/dL |
Around 150-200 mg/dL |
|
Before Meals |
100-180 mg/dL |
120-200 mg/dL |
|
2 Hours After Meals. |
Around 180 mg/dL |
Around 180 mg/dL |
|
At Bedtime. |
110-200 mg/dL |
100-200 mg/dL |
2. Normal Levels of Sugar for Adolescents (6-12 Years of Age)
|
Time |
Normal Level of Sugar in Blood. |
Diabetic Blood Sugar Levels. |
|---|---|---|
|
Fasting. |
80-180mg/dL. |
Around 150-200mg/dL. |
|
Before Meals. |
100-180mg/dL. |
120-200mg/dL. |
|
2 Hours After Meals. |
Around 180mg/dL. |
Around 180mg/dL. |
|
At Bedtime |
110-200mg/dL. |
100-200mg/dL. |
3. Normal Levels of Sugar for Teenagers (13-19 Years of Age)
|
Time |
Normal Level of Sugar in Blood. |
Diabetic Blood Sugar Levels. |
|---|---|---|
|
Fasting |
70-150mg/dL |
150-180mg/dL. |
|
Before Meal |
90-130mg/dL. |
120-160mg/dL. |
|
2 hours After Meal |
Upto 140mg/dL. |
Around 180mg/dL. |
|
At Bedtime |
90-150mg/dL. |
100-150mg/dL |
4. Normal Levels of Sugar for Adults ( 20 or Above Years of Age)
|
Time |
Normal Level of Sugar in Blood. |
Diabetic Blood Sugar level. |
|---|---|---|
|
Fasting. |
Less than 100mg/dL. |
Around 100-150mg/dL. |
|
Before Meal. |
Between 70-130mg/dL. |
Between 90-160mg/dL/ |
|
2 hours After the Meal |
Less than 180mg/dL. |
Around 150mg/dL. |
|
At Bedtime. |
Between 100-140mg/dL. |
Between 100-150mg/dL. |
What Affects Normal Levels of Blood Sugar?
The following factors can affect the normal levels of sugar in the blood:
- Unhealthy diet - Any poor diet, such as one high in sugar, carbohydrates, starch, etc., can cause blood sugar levels to rise.
- Sedentary lifestyle - Lack of or no physical activity can result in substantial sugar increases. It is advisable to use a glucometer to check blood sugar levels because excessive activity can also cause physical stress, which can cause spikes.
- Tobacco use: Consuming nicotine and tobacco in the form of cigarettes might make it challenging to maintain a normal level of sugar in the blood.
- Stress: Blood sugar levels are impacted by stress and an increase in the stress hormone cortisol. High stress causes the body to produce more cortisol, raising blood sugar levels and reducing insulin's effectiveness.
- Problems with sleep - Frequent nighttime awakenings, insufficient sleep, excessive sleep, and irregular sleep contribute to glucose intolerance. Additionally, stress and incorrect insulin regulation are brought on by sleep deprivation.
- Medication side effects - Some medications, such as corticosteroids, diuretics, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, etc., can cause blood sugar levels to increase. See a diabetes specialist doctor to discuss the side effects of medications.
When to See a Diabetes Specialist Doctor?
If you have diabetes and suddenly start experiencing persistent blurred vision, uncontrollable highs and frequent lows in the blood sugar levels and other significant symptoms, consult a diabetes specialist doctor right away to prevent the situation from getting worse.
Wrapping Up
Diabetes is a chronic health condition that, if not diagnosed and controlled, can lead to serious health problems like kidney disease, heart failure, etc. Millions of people in India and worldwide are grappling with diabetes. A person with this health condition needs to control their blood sugar levels by following a balanced diet and regular exercise. In case of fluctuation in blood sugar levels, you should consult your diabetes specialist doctor about developing an effective treatment plan.
