Estimated Average Glucose Normal Range

Normal Fasting Plasma Glucose Levels

Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels are a critical measure for assessing glucose homeostasis and potential diabetes risk. The normal fasting plasma glucose level is defined as less than 100 mg/dL (5.55 mmol/L). However, even within this normoglycemic range, higher fasting plasma glucose levels can independently predict the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. For instance, men with fasting plasma glucose levels of 87 mg/dL (4.83 mmol/L) or more have a progressively increased risk of type 2 diabetes compared to those with levels below 81 mg/dL (4.5 mmol/L).

Average Glucose Levels Throughout the Day

Arterial plasma glucose values average approximately 90 mg/dL over a 24-hour period. Postprandial (after meal) glucose levels can peak at around 165 mg/dL, while glucose levels can drop to about 55 mg/dL after exercise or moderate fasting. This relative stability contrasts with other metabolic substrates, which exhibit wider fluctuations.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Insights

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) provides a detailed picture of glucose levels throughout the day. In healthy, non-diabetic individuals, the mean average glucose is typically around 98-99 mg/dL (5.4-5.5 mmol/L) for most age groups, with slightly higher levels (104 mg/dL or 5.8 mmol/L) observed in individuals over 60 years old. The median percentage of time spent within the normal glucose range (70-140 mg/dL or 3.9-7.8 mmol/L) is about 96%.

Glycemic Variability

Glycemic variability, which refers to fluctuations in blood glucose levels, is an important metric for overall glycemic control. In healthy adults, the mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE) and standard deviations (SD) of blood glucose readings are used to measure this variability. For instance, in a study of healthy Chinese adults, the 95th percentiles for MAGE and SD were 3.86 mmol/L and 1.40 mmol/L, respectively. These values are recommended as the upper limits of normal glycemic variability.

Reference Ranges for Blood Glucose

Normal blood glucose levels are maintained within a narrow range by various regulatory mechanisms. For newborns, blood glucose levels can range between 1.4 mmol/L and 6.2 mmol/L shortly after birth, stabilizing to normal infant, child, and adult values (3.5-5.5 mmol/L) by about 72 hours of age. For adults, normal fasting blood glucose levels are typically between 70 and 130 mg/dL (3.9-7.2 mmol/L).

Conclusion

Understanding the normal range of blood glucose levels is essential for identifying and managing potential glucose homeostasis disorders. Normal fasting plasma glucose levels are less than 100 mg/dL, with average daily glucose levels around 90 mg/dL. Continuous glucose monitoring provides valuable insights into glycemic variability, with established reference ranges aiding in the assessment of overall glycemic control. Maintaining glucose levels within these normal ranges is crucial for preventing diabetes and other metabolic disorders.

Estimated average glucose normal range

Summary

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