Glucose normal range
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Understanding the Normal Range of Blood Glucose Levels
Normal Fasting Plasma Glucose Levels
The normal fasting plasma glucose level is generally defined as less than 100 mg/dL (5.55 mmol/L) . This range is crucial for identifying individuals at risk for type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that even within this normal 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 in the bottom quintile (less than 81 mg/dL or 4.5 mmol/L). Similarly, individuals with fasting plasma glucose levels of 95 to 99 mg/dL are significantly more likely to develop diabetes compared to those with levels less than 85 mg/dL.
Blood Glucose Levels Throughout the Day
Blood glucose levels fluctuate throughout the day, influenced by factors such as meals and physical activity. After a meal, glucose levels can rise to a maximum concentration usually not exceeding 165 mg/dL, while during fasting or after exercise, levels can drop but typically remain above 55 mg/dL. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has provided insights into these fluctuations, showing that healthy individuals maintain glucose levels within a narrow range, with a mean CGM of 102 ± 7 mg/dL and variability expressed by an interquartile range of 21 ± 4 mg/dL.
Glycemic Variability and Its Importance
Glycemic variability, which refers to the fluctuations in blood glucose levels, is an important metric in diabetes management. For healthy individuals, the mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE) and standard deviations (SD) are used to measure this variability. Studies have established that the upper limits of normal for MAGE and SD are 3.9 mmol/L and 1.4 mmol/L, respectively. These values help in understanding the range of euglycemic patterns and setting realistic treatment goals for individuals with diabetes.
Blood Glucose Levels in Different Life Stages
Blood glucose levels vary across different life stages. For newborns, blood glucose levels can range between 1.4 mmol/L and 6.2 mmol/L in the first few hours of life, 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, increasing after meals to levels above 140 mg/dL and then reducing after 4-5 hours.
Conclusion
Maintaining blood glucose levels within the normal range is crucial for overall health and reducing the risk of diabetes and its complications. Normal fasting plasma glucose levels are less than 100 mg/dL, with higher levels within this range indicating an increased risk for type 2 diabetes. Continuous glucose monitoring has provided valuable insights into daily glucose fluctuations and glycemic variability, helping to establish normative values and improve diabetes management. Understanding these ranges and their implications can aid in better health outcomes and effective diabetes prevention strategies.
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