Fasting blood glucose

Definition

Fasting blood glucose is the level of glucose in a person's blood after they have not eaten for at least 8 hours. It is commonly used to diagnose and monitor diabetes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A normal fasting blood glucose level is typically between 70-99 mg/dL.
2. Levels between 100-125 mg/dL indicate prediabetes.
3. A reading of 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate tests suggests diabetes.
4. It is usually measured in the morning before breakfast.
5. Fasting blood glucose levels are influenced by factors like medications, stress, and illness.

Review Questions

• What is considered a normal range for fasting blood glucose?
• How long should a person fast before having their fasting blood glucose measured?
• What fasting blood glucose level indicates diabetes?

Related terms

HbA1c:

A measure of average blood glucose levels over the past three months.

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Test measuring body's ability to use glucose, taken two hours after ingesting a sugary drink.

Insulin:

A hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar levels.