The non-fasting test measures how much glucose is in your bloodstream after you eat. Non-fasting normal ( A1C ) levels are less than 140 milligrams/deciliters (mg/dL). If your prediabetes is between 140-199 mg/dL you could have . You may have Diabetes if your blood sugar level is above 200 mg/dL.
It also describes what a normal result is for each test, and at what point a person may need medical assistance for a data-component. The article also explains what a normal test result is and when a person might need medical help for hyperglycemia or low blood glucose.
Why Non-Fasting Glycose Is Tested
Both fasting and non-fasting glucose levels are useful in diagnosing diabetes and prediabetes. Non-fasting glucose can be used to inform diabetes management.
Fasting glucose tests only measure your blood sugar at a certain point, after you’ve been fasting for eight hours. You can find out how low your blood sugar will go.
The non-fasting A1C, on the other hand, helps you determine your average blood glucose level over a two to three month period. This test is a better way to determine how well you are controlling your blood sugar than home blood tests.
What is blood glucose?
Blood glucose provides the body with its main source of energy. Sugar is created when you eat food. It then gets sent into the blood. Insulin helps sugar get into cells where it can be used as fuel or stored.
Non-Fasting Blood Glucose: Normal, Elevated and High
Non-fasting blood glucose levels can indicate if an adult is diabetic or prediabetic.
- Normal:Under140 mg/dL
- Prediabetes:140 to 199 mg/dL
- Diabetes: Above a 200 mg/dL
Here are the levels of fasting blood glucose used for diagnosis:
- Normal: Less than 100 mg/dL
- Prediabetes :100mg/dL up to 125mg/dL
- Diabetes:126mg/dL or more
Diabetes and blood sugar levels
Results from home testing can reveal whether you need an insulin shot to move excess sugar out of your blood and into cells. The results of home tests can tell you if you need to take an shot of insulin in order to move sugar from your blood into your cells.
The non-fasting glucose levels of adults with Type 1 diabetes should:
- Before meal: From 90 mg/dL to 130 mg/dL
- Within 2 hours of eating: Less than 180 mg/dL
- Before bedtime: From 90 to 150 mg/dL
The non-fasting glucose level in adults with Type 2 diabetes should read:
- Before meal: From 70 mg/dL to 130 mg/dL
- Within 2 hours of eating: Less than 180 mg/dL
- Before bedtime: From 90 to 150 mg/dL
A falsely high A1C can be obtained. It is more likely to occur in people with kidney disease, liver disease, and low iron levels. Some medications and vitamin supplements, such as vitamin A, can increase your levels of A1C. Stress and poor sleeping habits can also contribute to elevated A1C.
Low Non-Fasting Blood Glycose: Risks
A glucose level of less than 70 mg/dL is hypoglycemia. When the body does not have enough glucose it can cause symptoms like:
- Difficulty in speaking
- Dizziness
- Fast breathing
- Feeling weak or anxious
- Hunger
- Nausea
- Shakiness
Hypoglycemia is a common side effect for people with diabetes. A person with hypoglycemia could develop a diabetes coma if the glucose level is too low. It is important to contact 911 immediately if the person is unconscious.
Diabetes patients should always have the contact details of their healthcare provider handy so that they can get help if needed.
High Levels Of Non-fasting Glucose Can Cause Serious Health Problems
Hyperglycemia means high blood sugar. Hyperglycemia occurs when there is not enough insulin in the body and too much sugar. Hyperglycemia can be characterized by:
- Blurred Vision
- Fatigue
- Frequent urination
- Headache
- Increased hunger or thirst
Hyperglycemia can cause both short-term and long-term problems, including kidney disease. If your blood sugar levels are too high, and you do not treat them, then you may end up in a diabetes coma.
Hyperglycemia may be prevented or maintained by:
- Avoiding alcohol and smoking
- Eating Right
- Exercising
- Weight management: How to maintain a healthy body weight
- Take medication as prescribed
To get the best result, you should work closely with your doctor.
Ketoacidosis
Diabetic Ketoacidosis may develop in those with type 1 diabetes who are not treated for hyperglycemia. When toxic acids or ketones accumulate in the blood. This condition can lead to a coma or even death.
Conclusion
Diabetics must be proactive in monitoring their blood sugar levels. They could develop hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia or ketoacidosis if they do not. Regular exercise and a healthy eating plan can help control blood sugar.
