The highest blood sugar level that people can tolerate without experiencing severe health complications is variable and can depend on individual factors such as age, overall health, and presence of diabetes or other medical conditions. However, generally speaking, the body's normal blood sugar regulation aims to keep blood glucose levels within a relatively narrow range.
For individuals without diabetes, the fasting blood sugar level (measured after at least 8 hours without eating) is typically between 70 to 100 mg/dL (3.9 to 5.6 mmol/L). After eating, blood sugar levels can rise temporarily, but they usually return to normal within a few hours.
For people with diabetes, the target blood sugar levels may be different and will be determined in consultation with their healthcare provider. However, in general, the following ranges are often recommended:
- Fasting Blood Sugar (before meals): 80 to 130 mg/dL (4.4 to 7.2 mmol/L)
- Postprandial Blood Sugar (after meals): Less than 180 mg/dL (10.0 mmol/L)
It's important to note that prolonged high blood sugar levels, especially in people with diabetes, can lead to various complications over time, including damage to blood vessels, nerves, and organs.
Severely high blood sugar levels, such as those seen in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS), can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. These conditions often involve blood sugar levels well above 250 mg/dL (13.9 mmol/L) or even higher.
If you are concerned about your blood sugar levels or have diabetes, it's crucial to work with your healthcare provider to establish appropriate blood sugar targets and develop a management plan to keep your blood sugar levels within a safe and healthy range.