Checking your blood sugar on your own is an important step. It can be done using a hand-held device called a glucometer, also just called a meter. In all types of glucometers, your blood sugar level will show up as number on a screen. Knowing how your blood sugar changes after a meal can help you choose the right foods. It can also show you how well your diabetes pills or insulin is working. The chart shows target blood sugar ranges for adults with diabetes:

Blood Sugar Control

Blood sugar before a meal	70 - 130 mg/dl (5.0 - 7.2 mmol/l)
Blood sugar after a meal	<180 mg/dl (<10.0 mmol/l)
A1C	<7.0%

Here are some other things to consider:

• Are you checking your blood sugar as often as your doctor directed?
• Do you have a meter and the other supplies you need for testing?
• Are you comfortable with using your meter and taking diabetes medicines?
• Are you keeping a log of your blood sugar test results?

If you answered yes to all of those questions, you’re doing great! If not, it may be time to review the diabetes care plan you and your health care team worked to create. This will help you know how often to check your blood sugar. Your doctor can help you get all the tools you need for testing your blood sugar. You can also bring your meter with you to your next doctor’s appointment. Ask the doctor or nurse to show you how to use it. Write down your test results each time you check your blood sugar. Keep your log with your meter.

We've included a tracking chart to help you.

Anyone with diabetes can benefit from doing blood sugar checks. It is extra important for those who are:

• Taking insulin or diabetes pills
• Pregnant
• Having a hard time controlling their blood sugar levels
• Having severe low blood sugar levels or ketones from high blood sugar levels
• Having low blood sugar levels without the usual warning signs

The A1C test is another important tool to help you and your health care team check your progress. Your score is measured by a blood test that your doctor orders. Your A1C result shows your average blood sugar levels for the past three months. This is different from the tests you do at home each day. It is usually done two to four times a year. The A1C test is not meant to replace your daily self blood sugar testing.

The A1C goal for most people with diabetes is less than 7 percent. Almost half of adults with diabetes have an A1C of 7 percent or higher. You can use the A1C converter to see how your A1C number compares to your daily blood sugar test results. 

• Glucose Tracking Chart - English 

A chart that shows what exams and tests are needed and when for people with diabetes with space to write down the results.

• Healthy Guidelines for People with Diabetes - English 

All about the A1C test, what it means and why it is an important part of your diabetes care plan.

• Know Your Numbers - English

• We can help you talk to your family or caregiver about your diabetes. 
• We can assist you in finding community programs and resources in your area.
• Tips to talk with your doctor and get the most out of your visit:
  • Ask any questions you may have about your diabetes. You can write them down and take them with you to your visit.
  • Follow your doctor’s advice. If you have questions or concerns, let your doctor know. 
  • Make sure your doctor knows what medicines you are taking.

• Depression 
• Other health conditions 
• Preventive care screenings, such as wellness checkups, mammograms and Pap tests

• American Diabetes Association 
• Children with DIABETES Online Community 
• Diabetes Health