Checking After-Meal Blood Glucose Levels May Reduce Complications

The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) issued a press release on September 19th, recommending that people with diabetes take their blood sugar two hours after eating meals. This is called the "postprandial" blood glucose level. Based on studies, the IDF feels that keeping the postprandial blood glucose under 140 mg/dl (7.8 mmol/l) will help control diabetes better and reduce the risk of complications, especially cardiovascular disease.

Until now, the usual recommendation was focused on the importance of the A1c and fasting blood sugar levels (preprandial or before meals). The American Diabetes Association (ADA) currently sets satisfactory postprandial blood glucose at 180 mg/dl while the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (ACE) does suggest 140 mg/dl as the target goal. Now, the IDF also advises postprandials at or below 140 mg/dl, to reduce risks of complications.

Professor Stephen Colagiuri, Chair of the IDF Task Force on Clinical Guidelines, said in the press release...

“Diabetes is now recognized as one of the largest epidemics humanity has ever faced and a leading cause of death. It accounts for 3.8 million deaths per year, many of which are related to cardiovascular disease. This new advancement underscores the importance for people with diabetes and their healthcare providers to adopt all possible ways to better manage the disease,”

More from your diabetes guide...

• Recommended Blood Glucose Numbers
• Five Good Reasons to Check Your Blood Sugar