Frequency and Timing: When to Get an FBS Test

It is believed that a diabetic person should frequently monitor their blood sugar levels. But why should you wait to be diabetic to monitor your sugar levels? Why take charge just in the nick of time and not well in advance?

Shrouded by misconceptions, we often miss out on measures we should be mindful of when checking our blood sugar levels. Due to a sedentary lifestyle and dietary habits, a recent study found that diabetes was prevalent in 10.1 crores.

Frequency and time play a major role in giving us accurate reports. The question now is: What is the best time to get the blood sugar level tested, and how often should that be done? Well, read on to find out.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a lifelong condition caused by elevated blood sugar levels due to the pancreas's inability to produce the required amount of insulin. It doesn't differentiate based on age or gender. But yes, it can be managed through medication, regular monitoring, and lifestyle modifications.

The cells in our body need glucose for energy production. This glucose is obtained from the food and drink we consume. If insulin is improper, glucose in the bloodstream can spike, leading to high blood sugar levels or hyperglycemia. 

This can complicate things for the body, impacting the heart, eyes, and nerves. Some of its signs are increased thirst, urination, blurred vision, fatigue, and an imbalanced weight.

Which tests should be taken to monitor blood sugar levels? 

Diabetes takes time to develop; hence, regular screenings can help us keep prediabetic and diabetic conditions under control. Here are some common tests taken to monitor sugar levels:

1. Fasting Blood Sugar Level
2. Random Blood Sugar Level
3. HBA1C
4. Insulin Random

Knowing the blood sugar levels of the body after fasting or going without consuming any kind of food for 8 hours straight is crucial in identifying whether we are at risk of developing diabetes. 

Fasting Blood Sugar Level

Fasting blood sugar levels helps identify a person's diabetic status. The reports aid the healthcare provider in determining if an individual is diabetic, prediabetic, or has been affected by gestational diabetes, which affects during pregnancy due to sudden changes in the hormones.

Diabetes has affected 422 people worldwide, leading to 1.5 million deaths each year, and is estimated to increase with time. The signs and symptoms of these conditions are noticed in the later stages; hence, it is recommended that individuals keep a check on their FBS levels through regular monitoring, as a stitch in time can save you from health troubles in the future.

Preparations required before getting the FBS Test 

For accurate reports, you need to fast for 8-10 hours before giving your blood samples. Most doctors or healthcare providers suggest giving samples in the morning without consuming any food or drink so there are no discrepancies in the test results.

During the blood sample collection, the concerned person deputed will ask you to:

• Sit relaxed in a hygienic place
• Make a fist so that he can identify the vein
• Insert a sanitized needle to draw blood
• Transfer the blood to a test tube
• Apply an alcohol rub and a bandage to the punctured area

After the test, if you experience swelling or pain, apply a cold compress to ease the condition. There is nothing to worry about, as these conditions are temporary.

You will receive the reports within 12 hours. Consult your doctor for proper instructions to maintain a stable blood sugar level.

What do the FBS Test results tell?

Fasting Blood Sugar Test:

The readings for your FBS test might be as follows:

• 99 mg/dL is considered normal
• 100 to 125 mg/dL indicates pre-diabetes
• 126 mg/dL levels are high and highlight that you have diabetes.

Redcliffe Labs' smart test report presentation and clear instructions in layman's language make it easy for you to interpret the results yourself. However, it is always advised that you consult your healthcare provider for an accurate understanding of your reports. 

When the levels are below 70 mg/dL, your FBS levels are lower than they should be. Low FBS levels can lead to dizziness, headaches, rapid heartbeats, and a lack of concentration. 

Keep your FBS levels in check through these simple modifications in your routine.

Maintain Your Fasting Blood Sugar Levels

• Get your sugar levels checked every three months. 

Taking the HbA1C test can clarify your average blood glucose levels for the last three months. If your levels are below 6.5%, there is nothing to worry about. 

• Keep yourself Physically Active.

A sedentary lifestyle can lead to unintended weight gain. A recent report states that 1kg gain in weight increased the chance of diabetes in women by 19% and in men by 15%.

Walking for 30 minutes a day can keep us physically active. Swimming, skipping, yoga, and meditation keep us physically and emotionally healthy. The power of physical activities can never be underestimated in keeping diseases at bay. 

• Control Your Cholesterol Levels 

Cholesterol levels are of two types: good and bad. HDL cholesterol is considered good, while high LDL cholesterol levels are harmful to the body as they can block the arteries, leading to cardiovascular diseases. Seventy percent of people with type 2 diabetes had high cholesterol levels. The right diet and exercise can prevent health complications.

• Quit Smoking

Smoking narrows the blood vessels and strains the heart, leading to major health concerns. The cigarette package itself warns the consumer that tobacco is dangerous, but resisting becomes difficult. 

A well-functioning body is a blessing, and loading it with toxins can lead to disheartening aftermaths. 

• Go for a Well-Balanced Diet

A diet rich in vegetables, pulses, protein, and low-fat dairy can keep us hearty and healthy. Lower your consumption of fats and substitute them with healthy fats such as ghee. Reducing sugar can be difficult, but resisting excessive consumption is possible.

Avoid sugary beverages, and get a bottle of water instead of grabbing your favorite drink. Nothing can quench your thirst better than water.

Inculcating these doable things can help you take charge and pave your path toward a healthy lifestyle.

Book a Test Today

You can easily book a glucose fasting test at an affordable rate with Redcliffe Labs online and enjoy the convenience of home sample collection and a free report consultation. Don’t delay; get your fasting blood sugar levels checked today.