Monitoring Type 2 Diabetes Blood Sugar: Why is it Important?
 Because type 2 diabetes is something that is developed rather than being a lifelong, chronic condition, many people believe it to be less serious than type 1 diabetes. However, this is untrue, and the effects of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can be extremely painful and cause serious health complications. For those with the disease, monitoring type 2 diabetes blood sugar is an integral part of avoiding these complications and maintaining a happy, healthy life .
While people with type 2 diabetes may not be dependent on insulin the way people with type 1 diabetes often are, if you have type 2 diabetes it is still extremely important to keep up with your blood sugar levels. This often involves pricking your finger or other part of the body with a handheld monitor that measures blood sugar.
Some things to keep in mind when monitoring type 2 diabetes blood sugar are:
- Depending on your average blood sugar levels, you may be required to test your blood sugar several times a day. However, if your blood sugar is being well controlled, you may only have to check once.
- Oftentimes, your health care provider may ask you to check your blood sugar when you wake up, before major meals, and before you go to bed.
- Frequent testing helps determine how well you are responding to changes in diet, exercise, and any medications you may be on. It also helps your health care provider decide when these levels should be adjusted based on how well your blood sugar is being managed.
- More frequent testing may be required if you are under a lot of stress or become ill.
Diabetic blood sugar before meals typically should range from 70-130 mg/dL, and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after eating. Type 2 diabetes blood sugar is different for everyone, so it is important to work with your health care provider to determine what your target level is.
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