Diabetes has become one of the most prevalent diseases today; however, it is becoming easily manageable. Physicians are discovering new factors that could help people with diabetes to live comfortable lifestyles. Understanding of the relationship between blood glucose and diabetes has helped diabetics to lead normal lives without being dependent on others.

One of the most effective ways of dealing with diabetes is to keep blood sugar (glucose) levels within a specific range. A diabetic can keep glucose levels within a healthy range by eating the right food, living a healthy lifestyle and taking medication for diabetes. To do so, glucose monitoring is imperative to enhance understanding of the link between the main players that influence the disease—food, blood glucose, insulin and exercise.

Poor monitoring of blood glucose can lead to complications arising from diabetes, while knowledge of blood sugar levels can help a physician and the diabetic to determine the best management strategy.

People suffering from diabetes can monitor glucose levels themselves as frequently as they can or as per the doctor’s recommendations; it is important because too low (hypoglycemia) or high (hyperglycemia) sugar levels can cause life-threatening complications. Normally, patients receive portable diabetes-monitoring kits that they can use to monitor glucose with minimal difficulty. The kits typically contain test strips, a lancet device and glucose meter. Diabetics often receive training on how to use the kits to check glucose levels. The monitoring frequency depends on an individual patient. Diabetics must keep a log of glucose levels, which can help health professionals to provide the most appropriate and timely assistance.

Nowadays, mobile apps that help keep records exist, making it easier for everyone to monitor and maintain the records. Apart from records of tests done, it is also important to record the food eaten, exercises done and so forth. In case of any complications, it will be easy to identify its origin. Proper monitoring will help the patient and healthcare professional understand whether a specific medical measure is effective and should be continued.

The target ranges for blood glucose levels vary according to duration an individual has had diabetes, age, medication or other medical problems. Healthcare professionals usually offer advice on individual target ranges. However, a range of between 4.0–7.8mmol/L. is the normal blood glucose level for most people; the American Diabetes Association provides recommended targets for patients in different categories to prevent the risk of generalization.

It is possible to get a higher or lower glucose reading than usual. This discrepancy could be brought about by several issues. In some cases, the individual may have another affliction, such as a virus in the blood stream. The food one has eaten may also affect the reading. Foods rich in starch, such as cereals and bread are known to influence blood sugar levels. Alcohol and medications may also cause abnormal blood glucose levels.

Sometimes, an individual might use the testing equipment wrongly, which may produce inaccurate results. In some situations, testing kits have been found to be faulty. Checking them regularly for expired strips, for instance, can be instrumental in salvaging a serious situation.

Blood glucose and diabetes can be managed easily with the right equipment and practice. If blood sugar monitoring is conducted as required, it will be easy for patients and health professionals to deal with the disease with confidence.

*The author of this blog is not a medical professional and this article does not contain professional medical advice. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, treatment, or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of the contents of this article. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.