Key takeaways
- Insulin moves glucose into cells.
- Normal fasting: under 100 mg/dL.
- Normal A1C: under 5.7%.
- 1 in 3 U.S. adults has prediabetes.
- Get screened if you are at risk.
You don't need a medical degree to understand blood sugar. Here are the essentials.
Blood sugar ranges
| Test | Normal | Prediabetes | Diabetes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fasting glucose | Under 100 mg/dL | 100–125 mg/dL | 126 mg/dL or higher |
| A1C | Under 5.7% | 5.7–6.4% | 6.5% or higher |
| 2-hour glucose test | Under 140 mg/dL | 140–199 mg/dL | 200 mg/dL or higher |
What causes spikes and crashes?
Refined carbs and sugary drinks
Absorbed quickly, causing sharp rises.
Large meals
More glucose at once.
Inactivity
Muscles use less glucose.
Stress and poor sleep
Hormones like cortisol raise blood sugar.
Warning signs
- High blood sugar: thirst, frequent urination, tiredness, blurred vision, slow-healing cuts
- Low blood sugar: shakiness, sweating, hunger, confusion, fast heartbeat
Supporting healthy blood sugar
Balanced meals, regular movement, good sleep and stress management are the foundation. Insufend adds daily nutritional support with chromium, cinnamon, gymnema, green tea, theobromine, eleuthero and vitamins B1 and D.
Talk to your doctor about screening if you are overweight, have a family history of diabetes or are over 35. If you take diabetes medicines, never change them without medical advice. Seek emergency care for confusion, fainting or vomiting with very high or low readings.
Sources
- CDC – "Diabetes testing" and "Prediabetes: your chance to prevent type 2 diabetes."
- American Diabetes Association – "Standards of Care in Diabetes," 2024.
- U.S. Preventive Services Task Force – "Prediabetes and type 2 diabetes: screening," 2021.
Common questions
What is a normal blood sugar level?
A fasting level under 100 mg/dL and an A1C under 5.7%.
What does insulin do?
It helps glucose move from the blood into your cells for energy.
Who should be screened?
Adults 35 to 70 who are overweight, and anyone with risk factors.