Blood Sugar Monitoring: How to Test, Track and Use Results

Want clearer control of your blood sugar without confusion? Testing is the most direct way to know how food, meds and activity affect you. This short guide gives practical steps, testing times, device tips, and what results usually mean.

Which device and supplies to pick

Choose between a standard blood glucose meter (fingerprick) or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Meters are cheaper and simple: buy a reliable brand, keep test strips sealed and use fresh lancets. CGMs give continuous trends and alarms — great if you have frequent lows or need tight control, but they cost more and sometimes need a prescription.

Check meter accuracy: use control solution once in a while, avoid expired strips, and store strips at room temperature. If your readings suddenly change for no reason, try a new strip pack and clean the meter.

When and how often to test

There’s no one rule for everyone. Typical testing times that give useful info are:

• Fasting (first thing in the morning).
• Before meals and 1–2 hours after starting a meal (postprandial).
• Before exercise, and sometimes after, to see the effect of activity.
• At bedtime, or during the night if you suspect lows while sleeping.
• Anytime you feel symptoms of low (shaky, sweaty, dizzy) or high (very thirsty, blurry vision).

Frequency examples: people with type 1 diabetes or those on insulin often test multiple times daily (before meals, bedtime, and sometimes overnight). If you have type 2 diabetes and aren’t on insulin, testing can be less frequent — your clinician will suggest a schedule that fits your treatment and goals.

Common targets many clinicians use: fasting 80–130 mg/dL and roughly under 180 mg/dL two hours after a meal. A1c gives average control over months; most targets are near 7% but should be personalized. Always confirm targets with your healthcare team.

Quick safety tip: if glucose is under 70 mg/dL, treat with 15–20 grams of fast-acting carbs (juice, glucose tablets), recheck in 15 minutes, and repeat if needed. If readings stay very high or you’re sick, contact your provider.

Keep a simple log with time, reading, what you ate, meds and activity. Patterns are more useful than single numbers: they help your provider adjust doses, timing, or meal plans. Use phone apps or a small notebook — whatever you’ll keep up with.

Small fixes often help: replace old strips, set alarms on a CGM, test before driving, and compare meter results to lab checks now and then. If cost is an issue, compare prices for meters and strips online or ask your pharmacist about savings programs.

Testing gives you real answers fast. Use readings to learn, not just to worry: spot patterns, try small changes, and check with your care team when things don’t improve.