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How to diagnose diabetes? What you need to know about blood sugar levels and body signals.

Diagnostic criteria for diabetes: not just looking at one indicator

While we cannot diagnose diabetes ourselves, understanding relevant blood test results can help detect the problem early. According to the American Diabetes Association standards :

· Fasting blood glucose ≥126 : Diabetes mellitus

· Fasting blood glucose 100–125 : Insulin resistance (prediabetes )

· Fasting blood glucose 100–110 : a gray area

· Fasting blood glucose <100 : Normal

However, Dr. Burg points out that the ideal blood sugar range is between 70 and 86 , which is equivalent to only half a teaspoon of sugar in the blood. This sugar does not come from food, but is produced by the body from fat or protein through "gluconeogenesis" .

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Insulin testing: Reflects problems earlier than blood sugar levels.

Even with normal fasting blood glucose levels, insulin resistance may still exist. High insulin levels (e.g., above 10 , or even reaching 20 , 30 , or 40 ) indicate that there are problems at the cellular level, but they are not yet reflected in blood glucose. If this condition is not improved, it will eventually develop into diabetes .

Body Signals: Don't Ignore These Warning Signs

· Postprandial drowsiness

· Unable to hold on between meals

· Strong craving for sweets

· Finger numbness, abnormal sensation in the hand

These are all early signs of insulin resistance or diabetes and should be noted .

A1C and postprandial blood glucose: Supplemental testing is more accurate.

A1C (glycated hemoglobin) is another common test, but it is easily affected by factors such as stress, caffeine, dehydration, exercise, or lack of sleep. The American Diabetes Association recommends an A1C below 6 , but Dr. Burg believes the ideal value should be between 4.6 and 5.3 , or even below 5 .

Another practical test is the "postprandial blood glucose test": blood glucose is measured two hours after a meal using a blood glucose meter, and the ideal value should be below 120. Although the official standard is below 140 , the standard is relatively lenient because high-carbohydrate diets are common .

Conclusion: Multi-faceted detection to safeguard health

Hong Kong residents lead busy lives with diets high in sugar and carbohydrates, making the risk of diabetes a significant concern. Don't rely on a single test; a comprehensive assessment of your health requires monitoring blood sugar, insulin, A1C , and other bodily signals. Early detection and intervention can help you avoid diabetes and live a healthier life !