What is considered a normal blood sugar level?

A normal blood sugar level, particularly when measuring fasting glucose, typically falls within the range of 70 to 100 mg/dL. This range is widely accepted by health organizations such as the American Diabetes Association and is used as a standard for evaluating metabolic health. Blood sugar levels within this range indicate proper glucose regulation by the body, which is essential for overall health.

The values outside this range represent differing states of glucose metabolism. Levels below 70 mg/dL may indicate hypoglycemia, which can be harmful if not managed appropriately. Conversely, levels above 100 mg/dL, particularly those between 100 and 125 mg/dL, are often categorized as prediabetes, signaling a risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Persistently higher readings, such as those above 126 mg/dL, suggest a potential diagnosis of diabetes.

Understanding these ranges is crucial for monitoring and managing glucose levels effectively, especially for individuals with a risk of diabetes or those already diagnosed.