Blood Glucose Monitoring

If you have diabetes, self-testing your blood glucose levels can help you prevent complications when managing diabetes. You can test your blood sugar at home with a portable electronic device or continuously with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). 

Why is it important to test your blood sugar

By checking your blood glucose levels frequently you will notice the influences different foods and activities have on your readings. Importantly, blood glucose level pattern changes can alert you and your health care team to a possible need for a change in how your diabetes is being managed. By checking your blood glucose levels can help you develop confidence in looking after your diabetes and better understand the relationship between your blood glucose levels with the exercise that you do, the food you eat, and lifestyle influences.

Know your target range

Ask your doctor what the right blood sugar range is for you, and they will most likely set target blood sugar test results based on several factors. Some of these factors may include the type and severity of your diabetes, your age, and how long you have been diagnosed. They may also monitor your overall health and the presence of diabetes or other medical complications. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) between 80 to 130 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) is the recommended range. The ADA also notes that these goals may vary depending on your age, personal health, time of day, and should be individualised. 

When should you check your blood glucose level

When and how often you check your blood glucose level depends on each individual, the type of diabetes and the insulin being used. Your doctor or diabetes educator will help you decide how many checks are needed and the levels to aim for. Some possible times to check are before breakfast, before meals and snacks, before and after exercise, before bed, and sometimes during the night. Testing amounts can vary depending on if you are sick, if you are changing your daily routine, or if you are starting new medications - check with your doctor or diabetes educator if this is the case. 

By monitoring your blood glucose levels you can know when to seek advice from your health team about adjusting your insulin, tablets, and meal planning if your goals are not being met. There are many reasons why you could have inaccurate blood glucose results. Therefore, it is important to prepare your lancing site and maintain your meter and equipment for the most accurate results.

Remember to always seek advice from your medical practitioner before changing anything about your diabetes management. The above information is not medical advice.