Your ideal blood sugar levels depend on whether you have diabetes or not and the timing of the measurement relative to meals. Here are general target ranges: For people without diabetes:
- Fasting (before eating): 70 to 99 mg/dL (3.9 to 5.5 mmol/L)
- Two hours after meals: less than 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)
For adults with diabetes (type 1 or type 2):
- Before meals: 80 to 130 mg/dL (4.4 to 7.2 mmol/L)
- One to two hours after meals: less than 180 mg/dL (10.0 mmol/L)
For children with type 1 diabetes:
- Before meals: 4 to 7 mmol/L (72 to 126 mg/dL)
- After meals: 5 to 9 mmol/L (90 to 162 mg/dL)
Additional notes:
- Blood sugar levels naturally fluctuate during the day depending on food intake and activity.
- Individual target ranges may vary based on age, health conditions, and recommendations from your healthcare team.
- Pregnant women and people with gestational diabetes have specific targets, often slightly different from the above
- Consistently high fasting blood sugar (126 mg/dL or 7.0 mmol/L and above) may indicate diabetes
It is best to discuss your personal target blood sugar levels with your healthcare provider, as they can tailor goals to your specific health needs
