Blood sugar testing is an essential part of diabetes care. Each test tells you how your body is reacting to food, medicines, physical activity and stress. If you do these tests regularly and at the right time, it helps you understand the patterns of fluctuations in your sugar level and by understanding these patterns, you can prevent problems and keep your treatment in the right direction.
It is very important for everyone to know how often blood sugar should be tested, although it depends on your type of diabetes, use of medicines, sugar control and lifestyle. In such a situation, let us know how often to do blood sugar test and what is the right time for it.
Why is blood sugar test important?
1. Fluctuations are revealed – Blood sugar level always changes in diabetes. Morning sugar may appear normal, but may suddenly increase after eating. Similarly, levels may appear normal before sleeping at night, but may be very low in the morning. With regular checkups, you can detect these changes in time.
2. Correct quantity of medicines and insulin – InPatients taking Sulin check their blood sugar to adjust their dosage, and those taking medications to see if the medication is working.
3. For security – Regular checkups give patients a sense of control over their health and they can take informed decisions instead of guessing.
Blood sugar test guidelines
According to RSSDI, the timing of blood sugar test depends on your type of diabetes, medication and level of control.
1. Type 1 Diabetes – In this type the sugar level can change very quickly. In this, it is advised to get tested 5 to 8 times a day. Which includes before eating, 2 hours after eating, before sleeping and sometimes at 3 o’clock in the night.
2. Type 2 Diabetes – In this, the time of investigation depends on the method of your treatment. Those who are only on medicines should get tested at least 4 times a day. Especially if you are taking sulfonylureas or meglitinides. In addition, in a stable or controlled condition, get tested at least 4 times a week, once on an empty stomach and the remaining 3 times after eating. Those who are on insulin should get themselves tested at least 4 times a day. Which includes before eating, after and before sleeping. Apart from this, get tested 4 times a week in stable condition, which includes FBG and three post-meal tests.
3. Diabetes during pregnancy – Sugar balance in pregnant women is important for both mother and child. If you are on insulin or OADs then get tested 4 times a day. If you are only on diet and exercise, then get the profile test done for at least 1 full day in a week.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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