Is a blood glucose level of 130 indicative of diabetes?

Hello, Ms. Vân,

Consistently elevated blood sugar levels over time can lead to metabolic disorders related to nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential for managing the risk of diabetes and controlling complications if present.

1. Is a blood sugar level of 130 mg/dl high? What is considered normal?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), normal fasting blood glucose levels range from 70 to 100 mg/dL (3.9 - 5.6 mmol/L). Fasting blood sugar levels between 100 and 125 mg/dL (5.6 - 6.9 mmol/L) are considered indicative of prediabetes, and at this point, lifestyle changes and regular blood sugar monitoring are recommended.

Based on the information you provided, your blood glucose level was measured early in the morning before eating, meaning it is your fasting blood glucose level. Thus, your fasting blood glucose of 130 mg/dl is considered elevated, commonly referred to as "hyperglycemia."

An elevated fasting blood sugar level, as in your case (130 mg/dl), indicates a higher risk of diabetes compared to those with normal fasting blood glucose. Fasting blood glucose is used to encourage healthy eating and behavior and to monitor the effectiveness of diabetes treatment.

2. Does a blood glucose level of 130 mg/dl confirm diabetes?

To determine if a blood glucose level of 130 mg/dl confirms diabetes, you can refer to the following diagnostic criteria for diabetes (according to the American Diabetes Association - ADA), which include one of the following four standards:

• Fasting blood glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL. You must fast for at least 8 hours before the blood draw (no sugary drinks, typically overnight fasting for 8-14 hours);
• Blood glucose ≥ 200 mg/dL two hours after a 75g oral glucose tolerance test;
• HbA1c ≥ 6.5%;
• Classic symptoms of hyperglycemia or a random blood glucose test ≥ 200 mg/dL.

If you have no classic hyperglycemia symptoms, criteria 1, 2, and 4 should be tested again 1 to 7 days after the first test to confirm whether or not you have diabetes.

From the information you shared, we do not yet know whether you have experienced any typical symptoms of diabetes, such as:

• Frequent urination,
• Increased thirst,
• Increased hunger,
• Unexplained weight loss.

If you have these symptoms along with a fasting blood glucose of 130 mg/dl as measured in your recent health check, it is likely you have diabetes.

If you have no such symptoms, we recommend you recheck your fasting blood glucose within 1 to 7 days or take an HbA1c test.

• If Ms. Vân's repeat test shows a fasting blood glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dL, it confirms diabetes.
• If the repeat test shows a fasting blood glucose level < 126 mg/dL, it doesn't yet confirm diabetes, and Ms. Vân should consult a doctor for further evaluation.
• If the HbA1c level is ≥ 6.5%, it confirms diabetes.
• If the HbA1c level is < 6.5%, it doesn't confirm diabetes, but Ms. Vân should consult a doctor to evaluate the risk of prediabetes, if present.

3. How can I lower my blood glucose of 130 mg/dl?

Diet plays a critical role in reducing blood glucose levels. Physical activity is also essential for maintaining stable blood glucose levels.

To reduce blood glucose, choose foods with a low glycemic index (GI) to help stabilize blood sugar levels, manage diabetes, and slow the onset of complications. The GI of food determines how much it will raise blood sugar after consumption. Foods are divided into three groups based on their GI:

• Low GI (≤ 55),
• Medium GI (56-69),
• High GI (≥ 70).

Avoid overcooked, mashed, or fried foods, as these can rapidly raise blood glucose.

Also, ensure you're getting vitamins and minerals that help regulate blood sugar and boost immunity, such as: Zinc, Vitamin C, E, D, Folic Acid (B9), and Selenium.

It's recommended to walk in the morning and evening (ideally 2.5-3 hours after meals), walking for at least 20 minutes each time. Regularly test your blood sugar and follow any prescribed medications from your doctor (if necessary).

Through Ms. Vân's sharing, we can see that blood tests are an essential part of overall health checks. Through these tests, doctors can assess the current health condition and provide the best care for patients, helping to minimize long-term health complications.

Thank you, Ms. Vân, for your question. If you have further concerns, please feel free to contact us directly for timely support from the Dripcare team of doctors and experts.