6 things diabetics must know to measure fasting blood sugar accurately
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It's crucial to note that inaccuracies in fasting blood sugar measurements are not always due to a faulty blood glucose meter. Several factors can significantly impact the accuracy of the reading. Here's a summary of the six essential points to consider when ensuring an accurate fasting blood glucose measurement:
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Proper Fasting Duration: Ensure you fast for exactly 8 to 12 hours without consuming any calorie-containing food or beverages (except water). Drinking water does not typically interfere with the results. Fasting outside this window can lead to misinterpreted readings.
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Timely Measurement: Take the fasting blood glucose test between 7 and 9 a.m., ideally before 8 a.m. Blood sugar levels tested outside this timeframe or without adhering to the fasting duration cannot be considered fasting blood glucose.
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Regular Dinner Routine: Eat a regular-sized dinner the evening before, maintaining your typical meal pattern. Avoid heavy or difficult-to-digest foods that might affect your blood sugar levels overnight.
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Quality Sleep and Stress Management: Maintain a consistent sleep schedule and aim for a peaceful night's sleep. Lack of sleep and stress can elevate fasting blood sugar levels. Ensure you're calm and well-rested before the test.
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No Morning Exercise: Skip morning exercises, especially on an empty stomach, as physical activity can lower or temporarily raise blood sugar levels. If you usually exercise after breakfast, adjust your routine accordingly on the test day.
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Medication Usage: Continue taking your prescribed antidiabetic medications as usual the day before the test, but do not take them before your morning fasting blood glucose test. Taking hypoglycemic drugs before testing can skew the results and potentially cause hypoglycemia. Resume medication intake after the test and breakfast.
Furthermore, fasting blood glucose testing is particularly important for individuals at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This includes those who:
- Are obese or overweight
- Have a first-degree relative with diabetes
- Have a history of gestational diabetes or delivering a large baby (≥ 4 kg)
- Suffer from hypertension (blood pressure ≥ 140/90 mmHg)
- Have dyslipidemia (low HDL cholesterol ≤ 35 mg/dL and high triglycerides ≥ 250 mg/dL)
- Have previously shown impaired fasting glucose or impaired glucose tolerance in screenings
Regular fasting blood glucose screenings are part of diabetes prevention strategies and aid in early detection and intervention for those at risk.