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What is fasting glucose?

Fasting glucose, also known as fasting blood sugar, is a critical marker of metabolic health and refers to the concentration of glucose in the blood after an overnight fast. It provides insight into the body’s ability to maintain and regulate blood sugar levels within a narrow range, even in the absence of food intake.

Why is fasting glucose important?

Your fasting glucose can help you monitor and manage your fasting glucose levels. According to the CDC, approximately 38.4 million Americans have diabetes, and around 8.7 million may be undiagnosed [1]. Fasting glucose levels are crucial for diagnosing and monitoring various metabolic disorders, including prediabetes, diabetes mellitus, and insulin resistance. Elevated fasting glucose levels indicate impaired glucose metabolism and may increase the risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

How can I better understand my fasting glucose levels?

Fasting glucose is typically measured after an overnight fast of at least 8 hours. Here are the general ranges for fasting glucose levels:

  • Out of range: 0-70 mg/dL
  • In range: 70-105 mg/dL
  • Out of range: 105+ mg/dL

Values above this range may indicate hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), while values below the range may suggest hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Symptoms of high fasting glucose levels include increased thirst and frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, slow healing of cuts and wounds, and frequent infections [2]. Symptoms of low fasting glucose include hunger, weakness, blurred vision, difficulty concentrating, confusion/disorientation, dizziness/lightheadedness, and nausea [3].

How can I maintain optimal fasting glucose levels?

If you need to maintain or adjust your fasting glucose levels, consider the following strategies:

Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments: Adhering to low-carbohydrate diets, getting adequate sleep, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress effectively can help maintain optimal fasting glucose levels.

Medical Guidance: Underlying health conditions such as diabetes, hormonal imbalances, and liver or kidney disease can impact fasting glucose levels and require careful management to ensure stability. For individuals with diabetes, adherence to prescribed medications, insulin therapy (if needed), and regular medical follow-ups are crucial for optimal glucose control. Please consult with your physician for guidance in managing health conditions.

Regular Monitoring and Testing: Regular monitoring of fasting glucose is crucial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems offer a valuable tool for monitoring glucose levels in real-time and tracking trends over time [4]. These devices provide immediate feedback on how diet, exercise, medications, and other factors affect blood sugar levels, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their health management. By using a CGM system, individuals can gain valuable insights into their glucose patterns, identify trends, and adjust their lifestyle or treatment plan as needed to maintain optimal glucose control and overall health.

Where can I learn more?

DISCLAIMER: IF YOU ARE CONCERNED WITH ANY OF YOUR RESULTS, PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN.

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