Discuss glucose (sugar) targets with your healthcare team when creating your diabetes management plan.

People who have diabetes should be monitoring their glucose regularly at home. Regular glucose monitoring helps you determine how well your diabetes management program of meal planning, exercising and medication (as necessary) is doing to keep your glucose within your target range.
 

The results of the nationwide Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) show that the closer you keep your glucose to your target range, the more likely you are to prevent diabetes complications such as eye disease, nerve damage, and other problems. For some people, other medical conditions, age, or other medical concerns may cause your diabetes care team to set individual glucose target goals.
 

The following chart outlines the usual glucose ranges for a person who does and does not have diabetes. Use this as a guide to work with your diabetes care team to determine what your glucose target goals should be, and to develop a program of regular glucose monitoring that will help you manage your diabetes.
 

 

Time of CheckGoal glucose ranges
for people without diabetes
Goal glucose ranges 
for people with diabetes
Before breakfast (fasting)< 10070 - 130
Before lunch, supper and snack< 11070 - 130
Two hours after meals< 140< 180
Bedtime< 12090- 150
A1C (also called glycosylated hemoglobin A1c, HbA1c or glycohemoglobin A1c)< 5.5%< 7%



< = less than

> = greater than
> = greater than or equal to
< = less than or equal to

Information obtained from Joslin Diabetes Center's Guidelines for Pharmacological Management of Type 2 Diabetes

 

Although this content is reviewed by Joslin Diabetes Center healthcare professionals, it is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider for advice about a specific medical condition.