Understanding Your Blood Sugar Numbers

Blood sugar (glucose) is your body's main energy source. Consistently high levels indicate that your body isn't using insulin effectively — a condition called insulin resistance that can progress to prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. In Nigeria, diabetes prevalence has more than doubled in the last two decades, now affecting over 5 million adults. Many remain undiagnosed because early hyperglycaemia causes no symptoms. This interpreter helps you understand where your glucose reading falls according to international standards.

Nigerian Context: Diet and Diabetes Risk

Traditional Nigerian diets high in refined carbohydrates (white rice, yam, garri, pounded yam) and low in fibre can cause rapid blood sugar spikes. However, simple swaps make a big difference: choose brown rice or ofada rice, add vegetables to every meal, reduce portion sizes of swallows, and include protein (beans, fish, chicken) to flatten glucose response. Regular walking after meals (10-15 minutes) also significantly reduces postprandial spikes.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If your fasting glucose is consistently above 100 mg/dL, or postprandial above 140 mg/dL, schedule a medical evaluation. Readings above 126 mg/dL fasting or 200 mg/dL random/PP indicate diabetes — you need confirmatory testing and treatment. Never ignore very high readings (>250 mg/dL) especially with symptoms like excessive thirst, urination, or blurred vision. Early intervention can prevent complications like kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision loss.