When to Check Your Blood Glucose Levels

The frequency of testing usually depends on the type of diabetes you have and your treatment plan as well as other factors such as the diabetes medications you are taking, your general health, and the demands of your daily life. Your healthcare professional will advise you on how frequently you should check.

One may need to check their blood sugar levels several times a day, such as before meals or exercise, before bed, before driving, and whenever one suspects your blood sugar levels are low.

In people with type 1 diabetes, doctor may advise them to test their blood sugar 4 to 10 times a day; Prior to meals and snacks, before and after exercise, before going to bed, and occasionally during the night.

In people with type 2 diabetes, especially insulin users, the doctor may advise them to test their blood sugar multiple times each day, depending on the kind and amount of insulin they use. For people taking many daily injections, testing is typically indicated before meals and after bedtime. People taking intermediate or long-acting insulin may only need to test before breakfast and possibly before dinner or at sleep.

People who manage type 2 diabetes with noninsulin drugs or diet and exercise alone, may not need to test their blood sugar on a regular basis.

More frequent blood sugar monitoring may be beneficial in people who:

  • Use insulin
  • Are pregnant
  • Have difficulty reaching their blood glucose targets
  • Have frequent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) episodes
  • Have hypoglycemia without experiencing the usual warning signs
  • Are ill
  • Just had surgery