Lab Recommendations

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) provides recommendations for those with diabetes for optimal health.  These recommendations include the following 3 categories:  glycemic control (blood sugar control), blood pressure, and lipids (includes HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides).

• Blood sugar recommendations

  A1c <7.0%.  The A1c test or glycated hemoglobin test examines the average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months.

  Preprandial plasma glucose 90-130 mg/dl.  Preprandial is before a meal.  The ADA indicates prior to eating a meal, the tested blood sugar goal is 90-130 mg/dl.

  Peak postprandial plasma glucose <180 mg/dl.  Peak postprandial is generally 2 hours after a meal.  The ADA indicates 2 hours after eating, the tested blood sugar goal is <180 mg/dl.

• Blood pressure recommendation

The ADA recommends blood pressure is less than 130/80 mmHg.

• Lipids/Blood Fats

LDL-cholesterol <100 mg/dl.  LDL-cholesterol or Low Density Lipoprotein cholesterol is the "bad cholesterol".  LDL cholesterol is the type of cholesterol that builds up in arteries.

HDL-cholesterol >40 mg/dl.  HDL-cholesterol or High Density Lipoprotein cholesterol is the "good cholesterol".  HDL cholesterol aids in excretion of cholesterol from the body.

Triglycerides <150 mg/dl.

 

The American Diabetes Association.  Standards of Medical Care for Patients with Diabetes Mellitus.  Diabetes Care, Volume 26, Supplement 1.

Notes:  Always check with your healthcare provider on your specific lab recommendations.  Diabetes care is specific and your specific lab recommendations may differ.