Topic Overview

Keeping your blood sugar in a target range reduces your risk of problems such as diabetic eye disease ( retinopathy ), kidney disease ( nephropathy ), and nerve disease ( neuropathy ).

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) suggests the following A1c and blood glucose ranges as a general guide. Children, people who have severe complications from diabetes, and people who have trouble recognizing the symptoms of low blood sugar may need a different target range. Work with your doctor to set your own target blood sugar range. This will help you achieve the best control possible without having a high risk of hypoglycemia. ^{1, 2}

• Adults (non-pregnant)
  • A1c: Less than 7.0%
  • Before meals: 70 to 130 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL)
  • 1 to 2 hours after meals: Less than 180 mg/dL
• Women with type 1 or type 2 diabetes who become pregnant
  • A1c: Less than 6.0%
  • Before meals, bedtime, and overnight: 60 to 99 mg/dL
  • 1 to 2 hours after meals: 100 to 129 mg/dL or lower
• Women who have gestational diabetes
  • Before meals: 95 mg/dL or less
  • 1 to 2 hours after meals: 120 to 140 mg/dL or lower
• Adolescents and young adults (13 to 19 years old)
  • A1c: Less than 7.5%
  • Before meals: 90 to 130 mg/dL
  • Bedtime and overnight: 90 to 150 mg/dL
• School-age children (6 to 12 years old)
  • A1c: Less than 8.0%
  • Before meals: 90 to 180 mg/dL
  • Bedtime and overnight: 100 to 180 mg/dL
• Toddlers and preschoolers (under 6 years old)
  • A1c: Less than 8.5%
  • Before meals: 100 to 180 mg/dL
  • Bedtime and overnight: 110 to 200 mg/dL