Normal Blood Sugar Level in Women

Insulin controls the amount of glucose, or sugar, in the blood and the rate at which it is absorbed by the cells of the body for energy. When a woman's blood glucose levels are high or low, health problems can result.

Diabetes

In diabetes, blood sugar levels are above normal. According to the American Diabetes Association, 15.7 million Americans have diabetes. It is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States.

Hypoglycemia

In hypoglycemic women, blood sugar levels are below normal, causing hunger, dizziness, sweating, confusion, palpitations and tingling of the lips.

Blood Sugar Levels

Blood sugar level is measured in milligrams of glucose per one-tenth liter of blood. In women, normal blood sugar levels are 110 mg/dl and under. Borderline blood sugar levels, considered impaired glucose intolerance, are between 110 and 126 mg/dl. In women with diabetes, blood sugar levels remain higher than 126 mg/dl for two to three days.

Measuring Blood Sugar

Women can test blood sugar levels at home using glucose testing strips. Electronic testing devices are also available.

Solutions

A low-fat, high-fiber diet and regular physical exercise may help promote normal blood sugar levels in women. Drug or insulin therapies are also available.

References

• Prescription for Nutritional Healing; Phyllis A. and James F. Balch, M.D. ; 2000.