Monitoring Blood Glucose Levels Maintaining normal blood glucose levels significantly reduces the risk of complications from diabetes. If an individual has type 1 or type 2 diabetes, regular use of a glucose meter to determine blood sugar levels will help determine what adjustments to diet, oral medications, or insulin injections may be needed to get good control. What is glucose? Glucose is a simple form of sugar. Dextrose, fructose, sucrose and other forms of sugar are broken down into glucose so that the body can use it for energy or store it for later use. What does insulin do? In a normally functioning body, food intake triggers the release of a corresponding amount of insulin. As food is digested, blood flow transports nutrients to various cells where insulin "opens" the door and allows the cells to use the glucose. With diabetes, the body is unable to produce or use insulin properly, so the sugar stays in the bloodstream. Chemical components involved in the normal regulation of blood sugar. Normal Blood Glucose Levels Blood sugar levels are considered within the normal range when they measure between 80 and 120 mg/dl after fasting. The goal is to keep blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible. Low blood sugar can occur suddenly. Its symptoms may include dizziness, tremors, weakness, sweating, nervousness, irritability and hunger. If left untreated, low blood sugar can lead to seizures and loss of consciousness. High blood sugar levels can lead to long-term complications, including damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves and blood vessels, or more immediate adverse events. choose the contraceptive method best suited to you. PREGNANCY: Women who use insulin often need to increase their insulin dose during pregnancy to maintain tight control of glucose levels. Some women need to increase the dose considerably, especially in the last trimester because pregnancy releases hormones that create insulin resistance. This increase in insulin resistance is normal. You and your healthcare team should decide how to change your insulin schedule and dose. After giving birth, your blood glucose levels may fluctuate unpredictably because your hormone levels and overall body chemistry are still constantly changing. You may need less insulin for the first three to four weeks. If you find that maintaining good blood sugar control is difficult, talk to your healthcare team.