Blood sugar levels: acceptable values for men and women of different ages

endocrinologist – nutritionist FNAC FMBA of Russia

“The content of glucose in the blood is not a constant value. Sugar levels vary depending on the food consumed, age and gender. To control vital signs, there are physiological limits that are the norm. I will tell you what are the acceptable values that are not harmful to health.”

Blood sugar levels are the main indicator in the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. Glucose is a source of energy for the normal functioning of all human organs and systems. Its excess or deficiency destabilizes the work of the entire body. The more significant the fluctuations in the level of this compound, the higher the risk of complications.

Instability of blood sugar is dangerous because it goes unnoticed for a long time. Many patients suffering from diabetes do not suspect it, since they do not control this indicator. At the same time, excess glucose slowly destroys the body: negatively affects the vascular system and nerve fibers. Their defeat increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, deterioration of vision, kidney failure, amputation of legs.

What is glucose and its role in the body

Glucose is a simple carbohydrate that enters the body together with food or is formed as a result of the breakdown of other more complex carbohydrates. Its main function is to provide cells with energy. It is an important participant in metabolic processes. Without its help, proteins cannot be digested.

Thanks to glucose in the muscles and liver accumulates a reserve of glycogen, which provides the work of organs and systems in case of prolonged starvation.

Despite the fact that it is of vital importance, exceeding its level in the blood negatively affects the body. This usually happens after a meal. However, if a person is healthy, after a while the indicators come back to normal. Therefore, the most accurate data can be obtained only on an empty stomach.

Normal blood sugar levels

There are norms that are established by the World Health Organization and accepted as a standard. For healthy people, the indicators range from 3.3 to 5.5 mmol / l. At the same time, two hours after a meal, the glucose level should not exceed 7.8 mmol / l.

These values are average: when conducting laboratory tests should take into account age, eating behavior, the presence of comorbidities and the patient’s usual lifestyle.

Thus, the acceptable value for children under 14 years of age is 2.3-3.9 mmol / l, in older adolescents up to 19 years of age, the indicators can increase to 4 mmol / l, and in older people the upper limit is 6.5 mmol / l.

How is blood sugar measured?

Blood sugar should be measured in the morning, before meals. To get accurate readings, the last meal should be at least eight hours ago. It is forbidden to consume alcoholic beverages a day before the study. It is also recommended to refuse chewing gum, taking medications and brushing teeth before taking venous or capillary blood.

A convenient tool for measuring blood sugar levels at home is a glucometer. Before the procedure, it is necessary to wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly. It is recommended to make a puncture on the lateral surface of the fingertip.

To obtain a result, a small drop of blood is enough, which should fall on the intake tip of the test strip. It is important after each measurement to fill out a diary of self-monitoring to observe the readings in dynamics.

Factors affecting sugar levels

The level of sugar in the blood depends on various factors. First of all, it is associated with age, especially in women. Fading reproductive function leads to hormonal changes in the body. This is often the cause of dysfunction of the pancreas, which produces insulin. Acceptable blood sugar levels change during pregnancy.

A person’s dietary habits play a big role. Drinks with caffeine, starchy foods, fried foods can increase glucose levels. People who live in a state of chronic stress have higher blood sugar levels. This is due to excess adrenaline, which can trigger the development of type 2 diabetes.

Some diseases increase glucose levels. This happens with prolonged diarrhea and vomiting, fever, inflammatory diseases. Antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, steroids and cold medicines can affect the values. Inflammatory diseases of the gums can also increase blood sugar levels. At the same time, moderate physical activity has a positive effect on diabetics and prevents glucose spikes.

Dangers of high and low levels

High blood sugar levels negatively affect the brain, kidneys, blood vessels, lens of the eye. Therefore, diabetics often develop chronic kidney failure, blindness, coronary heart disease, cerebral and lower extremity blood vessels. Low glucose levels are no less dangerous. In this case, the brain under-receives energy, which causes weakness, rapid fatigue, dizziness, drowsiness and irritability.

In severe cases, hypoglycemic coma (a life-threatening condition caused by a sharp drop in blood sugar levels and an acute energy deficit in the brain) may occur.

Recommendations for maintaining normal blood sugar levels

To keep your entire body healthy, it is important to maintain normal blood glucose levels. Even people who do not suffer from diabetes should monitor the indicators annually. Observance of acceptable values will help to maintain the overall health of the body. This is facilitated by regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and reducing stress.