Educational content only. This article does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal health decisions.
Blood glucose (blood sugar) is the concentration of glucose circulating in your bloodstream. Glucose is your body's primary energy source, derived from the carbohydrates you eat. Your pancreas releases insulin to help cells absorb glucose and keep levels stable.
Persistently elevated glucose is the defining feature of diabetes and pre-diabetes. Even within the "normal" statistical range, where your glucose sits relative to its optimal zone — and whether it is trending up or down over months — gives a more complete picture of metabolic health than any single reading.
| Group | Low | Normal | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fasting (adults) | < 70 mg/dL | 70–99 mg/dL | ≥ 100 mg/dL |
| Pre-diabetes range | — | 100–125 mg/dL | — |
| Diabetes threshold | — | — | ≥ 126 mg/dL (two separate tests) |
| 2-hour post-meal | < 70 mg/dL | < 140 mg/dL | ≥ 200 mg/dL |
Note: Reference ranges vary by laboratory and population. Always interpret your result alongside the reference range printed on your own report.
A single fasting glucose reading tells you where you are today. Tracking the same measurement across 3–6 tests over months reveals whether your level is stable, drifting upward, or improving — which is far more actionable than any one data point.
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Get started free →This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges are general guidelines — always use the values on your own laboratory report and consult your healthcare provider.