When undergoing a blood sugar test, you are often asked to take a fasting blood sugar test as well. This test measures the sugar levels in your blood after you have refrained from eating or drinking for 8-12 hours.

The purpose of the fasting blood sugar test is to evaluate how effectively the body processes glucose, the primary source of energy. Knowing the results of this test is crucial for the early detection of potential diabetes or other metabolic disorders.

Normal Values for Fasting Blood Sugar Levels

Fasting blood sugar levels are measured through a blood sample taken after you have fasted for 8-12 hours, avoiding any food or drinks (except water).

The normal range for fasting blood sugar levels can vary slightly from person to person. Below are the general guidelines used to assess fasting blood sugar:

• Normal fasting blood sugar levels: 70 - 100 mg/dL
• Prediabetes: 100 - 125 mg/dL
• Diabetes: ≥ 126 mg/dL

If your fasting blood sugar level falls between 100-125 mg/dL, you are in the prediabetes range, indicating a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, if your fasting blood sugar levels are 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate tests, it may indicate type 2 diabetes.

Factors Affecting Fasting Blood Sugar Levels

Several factors can influence your fasting blood sugar levels, including:

• The type and amount of food you consume, particularly foods high in sugar and carbohydrates, can raise blood sugar levels.
• Physical activities can help lower blood sugar levels.
• Stress triggers the release of hormones that can elevate blood sugar levels.
• Health conditions and medications can impact your blood sugar levels.

How to Keep Blood Sugar Levels Stable

Maintaining stable and healthy blood sugar levels requires a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Here are some tips to help you keep your blood sugar levels in check:

1. Eating smaller meals more frequently is better than consuming large portions at once, which can lead to blood sugar spikes.
2. Fiber helps regulate blood sugar by slowing the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. Foods like vegetables, fruits, nuts, and whole grains are good sources of fiber.
3. Avoid processed carbohydrates such as white bread, pasta, and white rice have a high glycemic index and can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.
4. Consume healthy fats and proteins that can slow down carbohydrate digestion and can prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar.
5. Ensure adequate sleep because insufficient sleep can lead to insulin resistance, which may result in higher blood sugar levels.
6. Drinking enough water can help keep your blood sugar levels stable.
7. Alcohol can lead to drastic fluctuations in blood sugar levels, so it's important to limit intake.
8. Quit smoking to help regulate blood sugar levels in the long run.

If your fasting blood sugar levels indicate prediabetes or diabetes, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. You can also use the health consultation feature on the Ai Care app, which is available for download from the App Store or Play Store.

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