Normal blood sugar levels fasting and nonfasting
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Normal Blood Sugar Levels: Fasting and Nonfasting
Understanding normal blood sugar levels is crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This article synthesizes findings from multiple research studies to provide a clear picture of what constitutes normal blood sugar levels in both fasting and nonfasting states.
Fasting Blood Sugar Levels
Normal Range for Fasting Blood Sugar
Research indicates that the normal fasting blood sugar levels for healthy individuals range between 70 and 95 mg per 100 cc of blood, with an average level of approximately 81.6 mg%. This range is consistent across both men and women, suggesting a standard benchmark for evaluating fasting blood sugar levels.
Importance of Fasting Blood Sugar in Cardiovascular Health
Fasting blood glucose levels are not only a marker for diabetes but also play a significant role in cardiovascular health. A study involving 237,468 participants found that lower fasting blood glucose levels are associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including stroke and ischemic heart disease (IHD). Specifically, each 1 mmol/l decrease in usual fasting glucose was linked to a 21% lower risk of total stroke and a 23% lower risk of total IHD. This highlights the importance of maintaining normal fasting blood sugar levels to mitigate the risk of cardiovascular events.
Nonfasting Blood Sugar Levels
Effects of Nonfasting Blood Sugar
Nonfasting blood sugar levels can vary more widely due to recent food intake and other factors. However, studies have shown that nonfasting blood glucose levels are generally higher than fasting levels. For instance, in diabetic mouse models, treatments that improved blood glucose control also showed significant reductions in nonfasting blood glucose levels, indicating that effective management of blood sugar can positively impact both fasting and nonfasting states.
Weaker Associations with Cardiovascular Risk
While nonfasting blood glucose levels are important, their association with cardiovascular risk is weaker compared to fasting blood glucose levels. This suggests that fasting blood glucose is a more reliable indicator for assessing long-term cardiovascular health risks.
Conclusion
Maintaining normal blood sugar levels, both fasting and nonfasting, is essential for overall health. Fasting blood sugar levels should ideally be between 70 and 95 mg per 100 cc of blood, with an average of around 81.6 mg%. Lower fasting blood glucose levels are associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, making it a critical marker for long-term health. Nonfasting blood sugar levels, while variable, also benefit from effective blood glucose management strategies. Understanding and monitoring these levels can help in the prevention and management of diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.
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