What Is a Normal Fasting Blood Sugar Level?
A fasting blood sugar test measures glucose after 8+ hours without food. It is the standard screening test for diabetes.
Reference Ranges (Fasting)
- Normal: 70–99 mg/dL
- Prediabetes: 100–125 mg/dL
- Diabetes: 126 mg/dL+ (two tests)
- Hypoglycemia: below 70
How to Prepare
- No food or caloric drinks for 8+ hours
- Water is fine
- Take medications as usual unless told otherwise
- Best drawn in the morning
What Affects Results
- Recent food intake (elevates)
- Stress or illness (elevates)
- Certain medications (steroids elevate)
- Alcohol the night before (can lower)
Source: NLM MedlinePlus, American Association for Clinical Chemistry.
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