Understanding Blood Glucose Monitoring and Control

Why Your Blood Sugar Matters

Glucose is your body’s main source of energy. It comes from the food you eat and moves through your bloodstream to your cells, where it’s used for fuel. But, if your blood sugar stays too high for too long, it damages blood vessels, nerves, and organs. Over time, the damage can lead to heart disease, kidney problems, vision loss, and other serious conditions. People with diabetes are more likely to have a heart attack or stroke, so many cardiologists work closely with patients on blood sugar control, so your heart doctor might be just as concerned with your glucose numbers as your endocrinologist. Knowing your numbers and learning how they shift throughout the day is the first step toward protecting your health.

Choosing the Right Tools for the Job

The most common ways to check your glucose is with fingerstick meters and continuous glucose monitors. A standard glucose meter gives you a quick snapshot. You prick your finger, place a tiny drop of blood on a test strip, then wait for the result. It’s simple, but it only shows what’s happening at that moment. If you only check once or twice a day, you might miss important patterns. CGMs are small devices that use a tiny sensor placed under the skin to measure glucose levels every few minutes. The data gets sent to your phone or a reader device so you can see trends. You’ll know how your blood sugar responds to meals, stress, exercise, and sleep. CGMs can also send alerts if your levels go too high or too low. The best option depends on your health, preferences, and insurance. CGMs are usually recommended for people with type 1 diabetes, but more doctors are encouraging their use for type 2 diabetes and prediabetes. Talk to your primary care doctors about whether a CGM might be right for you. Don’t assume it’s only for tech-savvy patients or those already on insulin. It’s also important to keep a written or digital log of your numbers, especially if you’re using a fingerstick meter. Note the time of day, what you ate, how you felt, and any medications.

Blood Sugar Targets

Understanding your target range makes your monitoring useful. Blood sugar goals can vary, but most agree on these general guidelines:

• Fasting: 80 to 130 mg/dL
• Two hours after meals: Less than 180 mg/dL
• Bedtime: 100 to 140 mg/dL

If you’re older, have multiple health conditions, or are at risk for low blood sugar, your target range may be adjusted to keep you safe. It’s normal for blood sugar to rise and fall during the day, but it’s important to avoid spikes and crashes that put stress on your body. If your numbers are slightly outside your target range often, you’ll want to check in with your cardiologist. Your treatment plan may need adjusting.

What You Can Do About It

You don’t have to overhaul your entire life to make meaningful changes. Small, consistent habits make the biggest difference.

• Food Choices: Focus on balanced meals. Combine protein, fiber, and healthy fats with carbohydrates to slow digestion and prevent spikes. Try grilled chicken with quinoa and steamed broccoli instead of pasta with a sugary sauce. You don’t have to cut carbs completely, but be mindful of the quality and quantity.
• Movement: Exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively. A simple 15-minute walk after a meal can lower your blood sugar. Find something you enjoy and can stick with.
• Stress and Sleep: Cortisol is a stress hormone that raises blood sugar. Poor sleep does, too. Learning how to wind down and get consistent rest supports every part of your metabolism.
• Medication Management: If you take medications or insulin, pay close attention to timing and dosage. Always let your provider know what you’re taking and how your symptoms are changing.
• Regular Follow-Ups: Check in with your doctor even if you’re feeling fine. Preventive care is more effective than reacting to a crisis.

Are You Worried About Your Blood Sugar?

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or want to stay ahead of future risks, blood glucose monitoring is a core part of your personal health toolkit. If you’re not sure where to start or if it’s time to update your current routine, Southern Maryland Medical Group is here to help. We work with each patient to create plans that make sense for your life. Book a visit with a heart doctor or one of our primary care doctors today so you can take control of your blood sugar on your own terms.