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When to Test Blood Glucose

Ask your healthcare team when it is best to check your blood glucose and how often you should test. You may want to check at different times of the day to get an idea of how well your treatment program is working for you. The best times to check are before breakfast, before lunch, before dinner, and before bedtime snack. Sometimes it is helpful to check blood glucose 2-4 hours after a meal to see the effect of food on your glucose levels.

There are times when you will want to check your blood glucose more often than usual. You may think of other times as well.

During periods of stress, illness or surgery.
When you are pregnant.
When low blood glucose is suspected.
When blood glucose levels are erratic.
When there are changes made in your treatment program, such as a change in medication doses, meal plan or activity.
When taking new medications, like steroids.

Find more information about diabetes in What You Need to Know about Diabetes – A Short Guide available from the Joslin Online Store.

When to Test Blood Glucose

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