The Best Times to Check Your Blood Sugar: A Comprehensive Guide

TLDRDiscover the five general rules for the correct timing of fingerstick blood sugar checks. Learn the valuable times to monitor your blood sugar and how often to do it.

Key insights

Know the basics: the most valuable times to monitor your blood sugar are 15 minutes before a meal and two hours after a meal.

💡Less might be more: checking your blood sugar before meals and at bedtime is sufficient and easier to remember.

📝The number of fingerstick checks per day varies for each patient, depending on their diabetes control and medication use.

🔄Don't discriminate, alternate: change the time of day when you check your blood sugar to gain new and valuable information.

📝Don't be a clown, write it down: keep a log of your blood sugar values to review with your doctor for better management.

Q&A

When should I check my blood sugar?

You should check your blood sugar 15 minutes before a meal and two hours after a meal.

How often should I check my blood sugar?

The frequency of blood sugar checks varies for each patient. Consult your doctor for personalized recommendations.

What if I'm on insulin injections?

If you're on insulin injections, it is recommended to check your blood sugar 3 to 6 times per day. Your doctor will provide specific guidance.

Why is it important to change the time I check my blood sugar?

Changing the time of day when you check your blood sugar helps you gain new information and better manage your diabetes.

Should I keep a log of my blood sugar values?

Yes, it is recommended to keep a log of your blood sugar values. This helps your doctor identify patterns and make informed decisions about your treatment.

Timestamped Summary

00:24The most valuable times to monitor your blood sugar are 15 minutes before a meal and two hours after a meal.

00:51Checking your blood sugar before meals and at bedtime is sufficient and easier to remember.

01:24The number of fingerstick checks per day varies for each patient. Consult your doctor for personalized recommendations.

02:24Changing the time of day when you check your blood sugar helps you gain new and valuable information.

03:10Keeping a log of your blood sugar values helps your doctor identify patterns and make informed decisions about your treatment.