Is a fasting blood sugar level of 140 a sign of diabetes?

Dear Ms. Nam,

Sustained high blood sugar levels can lead to metabolic disorders affecting the processing of nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Regular monitoring of blood sugar is crucial to managing the risk of diabetes and controlling potential complications.

1. Is a blood sugar level of 140 high? What is considered normal?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), normal fasting blood sugar levels range from 70 - 100 mg/dL (3.9 - 5.6 mmol/L). A fasting blood sugar level between 100 - 125 mg/dL (5.6 - 6.9 mmol/L) suggests prediabetes, a condition that indicates an increased risk of developing diabetes and calls for lifestyle changes and regular monitoring.

As you mentioned, your blood sugar level was measured when you hadn’t eaten, but you did not specify how long you had been fasting before the test. Normally, a blood sugar level of 140 mg/dL under fasting conditions is considered high or hyperglycemic, indicating that your blood sugar is elevated beyond the normal range.

Having a fasting blood sugar level of 140 mg/dL suggests that you are at a higher risk of developing diabetes compared to someone with normal levels. Fasting blood sugar tests are used to encourage healthy dietary habits, lifestyle choices, and monitor the effectiveness of diabetes treatment.

2. Does a fasting blood sugar level of 140 mg/dL mean you have diabetes?

To determine if you have diabetes, you can refer to the diagnostic criteria outlined by the American Diabetes Association (ADA), which include any of the following:

• Fasting blood sugar level ≥ 126 mg/dL (after fasting for at least 8 hours).
• Blood sugar level ≥ 200 mg/dL two hours after consuming 75 grams of glucose.
• HbA1c level ≥ 6.5% (a measure of long-term blood sugar levels).
• Presence of classic symptoms of hyperglycemia or a random blood sugar reading ≥ 200 mg/dL.

A diabetes diagnosis can be confirmed if two test results from the same sample or at different times meet the diagnostic criteria. For the fourth criterion (random blood sugar reading), only one result is needed.

If you don’t have any typical symptoms of high blood sugar, such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, increased hunger, or unexplained weight loss, you should repeat the fasting blood sugar test within 1-7 days to confirm the diagnosis. Alternatively, you could opt for an HbA1c test to get a better assessment

• If the fasting blood sugar level during the next test is ≥ 126 mg/dL, diabetes is confirmed.
• If the fasting blood sugar level during the next test is < 126 mg/dL, diabetes is not yet confirmed, but you should consult with a doctor for further evaluation.
• If the HbA1c level is ≥ 6.5%, diabetes is confirmed.
• If the HbA1c level is < 6.5%, diabetes is not confirmed, but you should consult with a doctor to assess if you are at risk for prediabetes.

3. How can you reduce a blood sugar level of 140 mg/dL?

Diet plays a key role in lowering blood sugar levels, and physical activity is essential for maintaining stable blood sugar. To help reduce your blood sugar level, you should:

• Choose foods with a low Glycemic Index (GI), which helps stabilize blood sugar levels. Foods with a GI below 55 are recommended for better control and to slow the development of complications.
• Avoid overcooked, blended, or fried foods that can spike blood sugar quickly.
• Add vitamins and minerals such as zinc, vitamin C, E, D, folic acid (B9), selenium, which help regulate blood sugar and strengthen the immune system.
• Incorporate physical activities like walking, especially in the morning or evening (ideally 2.5-3 hours after meals), for at least 20 minutes each time.
• Regularly check your blood sugar levels and follow any medication prescribed by your doctor (if necessary).

Thank you for sharing your concerns, Ms. Nam. Blood tests are an essential part of general health checkups. They allow doctors to assess your current health and provide the best care plan. By doing so, long-term health complications can be minimized.

If you have any further questions, feel free to contact the Dripcare medical team for timely support.