I am diabetic and I haven't been keeping track of my blood glucose levels for years. These fasting glucose levels are also a standard protocol before any lab tests or bloodwork is taken during annual health checkups. information submitted for this request. People with diabetes should test their non-fasting glucose levels regularly. Non-fasting glucose levels can be a key measurement of any person's health, and regular blood sugar testing is an especially critical part of any diabetes care plan. Here's what you should know about non-fasting blood work, including normal blood glucose levels. When any of these systems are impairedincluding the different organs that regulate the pancreasglucose can be released inappropriately and cause high blood sugar. What are the tests to perform for monitoring blood glucose? The higher your A1C level is, the poorer your blood sugar control and the higher your risk of diabetes complications. This is a warning sign that you should stop ingesting extra glucose through your diet. Pregnant women can also develop gestational diabetes, often between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy, due to hormonal changes that affect the way that glucose is metabolized in the body. In a healthy individual, blood glucose levels should return to a normal level within about two hours after finishing the meal. Mathew TK, et al. When you work out, your body converts glucose into energy. Numbers between 100 and 126 are considered impaired, or pre-diabetes, where a person can more easily return to normal levels through diet changes and exercise. Yes, dehydration can lead to transient increases in blood sugar. Those with impaired fasting glucose have a 1.5 fold increased risk of developing clinical diabetes within 10 years, when compared to the general population. The ADA emphasizes individualized care and goals. ElSayed NA, et al. Physical stress to the body, including trauma, burns, and other injuries, can cause high blood sugar by altering the way glucose is metabolized. In one study by the National Health Institute Elevated Blood Sugar Levels and Diabetes | Sutter Health