Blood Sugar Indicators: What to Look For

When evaluating high blood sugar levels, several key indicators are commonly used by healthcare professionals. These metrics provide insight into both immediate and long-term glucose control, helping to determine if a person's blood sugar is within a healthy range or elevated.

Fasting Blood Glucose

Fasting blood glucose is one of the primary indicators used to assess blood sugar levels. It measures the amount of glucose in the bloodstream after a period of not eating, typically overnight. A fasting glucose level above 6.1 mmol/L is considered high and may indicate prediabetes or diabetes.

Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c)

Glycated hemoglobin, or HbA1c, offers a broader view of blood sugar control over the past three months. This test reflects the average blood glucose level and can be influenced by factors such as red blood cell turnover and anemia. An HbA1c value greater than 6.5% is generally classified as high, suggesting chronic hyperglycemia.

Glycated Albumin

Glycated albumin provides a shorter-term assessment, reflecting blood sugar levels over the past two to three weeks. This measurement is often expressed as a ratio, typically around 17, which adjusts for variations in blood albumin levels. A ratio exceeding 17 indicates elevated glucose levels during that time frame.

Postprandial Blood Glucose

In certain cases, postprandial (after-meal) blood glucose testing is also used. Blood sugar levels naturally rise after eating, but if they surpass 7.8 mmol/L two hours after a meal, it may signal impaired glucose tolerance or hyperglycemia.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Time in Range

For more detailed monitoring, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems can be employed. These devices track glucose fluctuations throughout the day and night. One important metric derived from CGM is Time in Range (TIR), which shows the percentage of time a person's glucose levels remain within a target range. TIR is increasingly used to evaluate glucose stability and manage diabetes more effectively.