Ask a doctor - Is 200 blood sugar normal after eating?

Q. Is 200 blood sugar normal after eating?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

A blood sugar level of 200 after eating isn't considered normal. Normally, blood sugar levels rise after a meal, but they typically stay below 180 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) if you have diabetes. However, it's important to remember that individual responses to food can vary, and there are different factors that can affect blood sugar levels after eating.

When you eat, your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose, which enters your bloodstream and causes your blood sugar levels to rise. In people without diabetes, the body releases insulin to help move glucose from the bloodstream into the cells, where it's used for energy. But in people with diabetes, either the body doesn't produce enough insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or the cells don't respond properly to insulin (Type 2 diabetes), causing blood sugar levels to remain high.

If you consistently have blood sugar levels of 200 or higher after eating, it could indicate that your diabetes isn't being well managed. High blood sugar levels over time can lead to complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, and eye problems. So it's important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a plan to manage your blood sugar levels effectively.

Managing blood sugar levels involves a combination of factors including following a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, taking medications as prescribed, monitoring blood sugar levels regularly, and making adjustments as needed. Your healthcare provider can help you determine the best approach for managing your diabetes and keeping your blood sugar levels within a healthy range.