Contents:
Why check my blood glucose?
How do I check my blood glucose?
Who should be monitoring?
When should I check my glucose levels?
When should I check my glucose levels more often?
Blood glucose targets
How do I control my blood glucose?
What should I do if my blood glucose is high?
What should I do if my blood glucose is low?
Useful resources
Why check my blood glucose?
Monitoring blood glucose is the best way to stay in control of your diabetes because it tells you what is happening at any particular moment. "It can help determine if you are at risk of low blood glucose (hypoglycaemia, also known as a ‘hypo’) or high blood glucose (also known as hyperglycaemia).
Checking your blood glucose regularly shows you how lifestyle changes and medication affect your levels and helps you maintain control of your diabetes. High glucose levels increase your risk of developing health issues such as heart, kidney and eye diseases, nerve damage, stroke and poor circulation.
The closer the blood glucose is to recommended levels, the better.
Blood glucose ranges for people without diabetes are 3.5-5.5 mmol/L before meals and less than 8 mmol/L two hours after meals.