With the introduction of our new lifestyle testing products onto our website, Test2Go take a closer look at why it is important to know your blood glucose levels.
Why do blood glucose levels matter?
Sugar (also known as glucose) is something that we all need to have in our blood to provide our cells with energy. Glucose enters your cells from your bloodstream through the hormone insulin. So if you don’t have enough insulin in your body, the glucose will stay in your bloodstream instead of going into your cells, which can damage your blood vessels in the long term. It can also lead to other health problems, such as eye disease, heart disease and kidney disease in the long term.
This is why it is really important to know your blood glucose level so that you reduce the risk of potential damage to your health.
Suppose you are found to have a high blood glucose level. In that case, it could be an indication that you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes or that you are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Diabetes UK lists the following as common symptoms of diabetes:
- Being very thirsty
- Blurred eyesight
- Cuts and wounds take longer to heal than normal
- Feeling more tired than usual
- Genital itching or thrush
- Going to the toilet a lot – especially at night
- Increased hunger
- Losing weight without trying to
However, not everyone diagnosed with diabetes gets these symptoms, or if they do, they may only feel them mildly. This is why it is so important to regularly test your blood glucose levels to keep an eye on things.
How do I check my blood glucose levels?
You can check your blood glucose levels by using Test2Go Blood Glucose Test. This test is a finger-prick blood sample test that you can do in the comfort of your own home – with the results ready to read in minutes.
Your blood glucose levels will vary at different points in the day, depending on what food and drink you have. People with diabetes will experience more significant changes more often than those without diabetes.
What are the recommended blood glucose levels?
The NHS states that target blood glucose levels are different for everyone. Still, generally speaking, a standard target is 4 to 7 mmol/l before eating and under 8.5 to 9 mmol/l 2 hours after a meal if you monitor yourself at home with a self-testing kit.
What does mmol/l mean?
mmol/l means the number of millimoles per litre. A mole is a scientific unit that is used to measure chemicals.
What should I do if glucose levels look too high?
If you use the Test2Go blood glucose test and your results come back to show a high blood glucose level, you should get in touch with your Dr to confirm the result. They can then also help you devise a treatment plan to help get your blood glucose levels under control – including diet, exercise and medication (if needed).
Blood Glucose Test
A simple and reliable test to check whether your overall blood glucose level is within normal limits.
- Results available ‘on the spot’ within minutes
- Free shipping
Further reading
If you want to find out more about blood glucose levels and diabetes, the following resources are beneficial:
- NHS website – Hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar)
- Diabetes UK – Diabetes: The Basics
- World Health Organisation – Diabetes
