Blood Sugar Levels: Normal Range, Causes of High & Low, and How to Maintain Balance

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30 Oct, 2025

Dr. Nikunj Jain

Dr. Nikunj Jain

Co-Founder and HOD - Nuclear Medicine ,

MBBS, DRM, DNB, FEBNM, FANMB, Dip. CBNC

Blood Sugar Levels: Normal Range, Causes of High & Low, and How to Maintain Balance

Blood sugar (or blood glucose) is the main source of energy for your body. It comes from the food you eat and is regulated by a hormone called insulin.
When your blood sugar levels are too high or too low, it can affect every organ — including your heart, kidneys, eyes, and brain.

With diabetes becoming increasingly common worldwide, understanding and monitoring your blood sugar has never been more important.
Regular testing can help you prevent or manage diabetes and maintain optimal energy levels throughout the day.

What Are Normal Blood Sugar Levels?

Your blood sugar levels fluctuate throughout the day — depending on when and what you eat.
Below are the recommended normal blood glucose ranges (according to WHO and ADA):

Test Type Normal Range Prediabetes Diabetes
Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) 70–99 mg/dL 100–125 mg/dL 126 mg/dL or higher
Postprandial (2 hours after meal) <140 mg/dL 140–199 mg/dL 200 mg/dL or higher
HbA1c (3-month average) <5.7% 5.7–6.4% 6.5% or higher
Random Blood Sugar (RBS) <140 mg/dL 140–199 mg/dL ≥200 mg/dL (possible diabetes)

Tip: If your readings are slightly above normal, it doesn’t always mean you have diabetes — but it’s a signal to make lifestyle changes or take a preventive health check.

High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia): Causes and Symptoms

When the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it effectively, blood sugar levels rise — leading to hyperglycemia.

Common Causes:

  • Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes
  • Insulin resistance
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • High sugar and refined carb intake
  • Stress and lack of sleep
  • Hormonal changes (e.g., PCOS, thyroid issues)
  • Certain medications (like steroids)

Symptoms of High Blood Sugar:

  • Frequent urination
  • Excessive thirst
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Blurred vision
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Slow wound healing
  • Recurrent infections (skin or urinary tract)

If you notice these signs, a Fasting Blood Sugar Test or HbA1c Test can confirm your glucose status.

Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): Causes and Warning Signs

Low blood sugar occurs when glucose levels drop below 70 mg/dL.
It’s more common in people with diabetes who take insulin or certain medications — but it can also happen to healthy individuals.

Possible Causes:

  • Skipping meals or eating late
  • Overdose of diabetes medication
  • Intense physical activity
  • Excess alcohol without food
  • Hormonal or liver disorders

Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar:

  • Shakiness or sweating
  • Dizziness
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Irritability or confusion
  • Blurred vision
  • Fainting (in severe cases)

If you experience these symptoms, immediately consume a quick source of sugar like fruit juice, glucose tablets, or a banana.

Key Blood Tests to Check Sugar Levels

There are several ways to monitor your blood sugar levels accurately:

Test Name Purpose When to Take It
Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) Measures glucose after 8–10 hours of fasting Morning before eating
Postprandial Sugar (PPBS) Checks sugar after meals 2 hours post-meal
Random Blood Sugar (RBS) Measures glucose at any time Anytime in the day
HbA1c Test Averages blood sugar over 3 months Every 3–6 months
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) Evaluates insulin resistance and diabetes risk Used for pregnancy or prediabetes screening

Expert Tip: Regular testing — especially HbA1c — helps track long-term blood sugar control more effectively than random readings.

How to Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar Levels Naturally

Managing your sugar levels is not just about medication.
A balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper hydration can help maintain glucose balance and reduce the risk of diabetes complications.

1. Choose the Right Carbs

  • Opt for whole grains, oats, quinoa, and brown rice instead of white rice or sugar.
  • Avoid sugary drinks, candies, and processed foods.

2. Eat Fiber-Rich Foods

  • Vegetables, fruits, legumes, and nuts slow down sugar absorption.
  • Fiber also improves gut health and weight management.

3. Stay Active

  • Engage in 30 minutes of physical activity daily — walking, cycling, or yoga.

  • Exercise improves insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake.

4. Stay Hydrated

  • Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily to help flush out excess glucose.

5. Get Enough Sleep

  • Poor sleep raises cortisol levels, leading to high sugar and cravings.

6. Limit Alcohol and Smoking

  • Both can worsen insulin resistance and affect blood sugar stability.

7. Manage Stress

  • Practice meditation, deep breathing, or hobbies that help relax your mind.

Risk Factors for Blood Sugar Imbalance

Some people are more prone to developing blood sugar issues than others.
Common risk factors include:

  • Family history of diabetes
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Poor diet
  • Hormonal disorders (like PCOS)
  • Age above 40
  • High blood pressure or cholesterol

If you fall into these categories, consider scheduling a preventive full body checkup including glucose, lipid, and HbA1c tests every 6 months.

Conclusion: Take Charge of Your Blood Sugar Today

Balanced blood sugar means better energy, sharper focus, and a lower risk of chronic diseases.
Regular testing helps you stay informed and take preventive action before complications arise.

“What gets measured, gets managed.”

Don’t wait for symptoms — schedule your Blood Sugar or HbA1c Test today with Molecular Diagnostics and take a proactive step toward lifelong health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Between 70–99 mg/dL for a healthy adult.

Less than 140 mg/dL two hours after a meal.

If diabetic — daily or as advised; if healthy — once or twice a year.

Increased thirst, urination, fatigue, and blurred vision.

Yes, with proper diet, exercise, hydration, and weight control — mild cases can be managed naturally.

Yes, it shows your average sugar control over 3 months.

Yes, chronic stress increases cortisol, which raises glucose levels.

Leafy greens, whole grains, cinnamon, chia seeds, and lentils.

At least 2–3 liters daily for optimal hydration.

If your fasting sugar is consistently above 110 mg/dL or you notice symptoms like fatigue and frequent urination.

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