A normal blood sugar level is critical to maintaining proper balance within the bloodstream of the human body. Glucose, the main source of energy for animal and human cells is a form of sugar that is found traveling throughout the bloodstream. Glucose is converted into your body after you eat foods that contain carbohydrates. Glucose levels are regulated and maintained by glucagon and insulin hormones. Insulin is produced by the pancreas organ and is released into the the blood stream whenever a rise in the amount of glucose is determined.

Normal blood glucose levels have a range between 70 and 150 mg and are generally lower in the morning (when you wake up) and rise after food is consumed. Blood glucose sugar levels that fall above the 150 mg range are normally considered to be signs of high blood sugar, or hyperglycemia. Chronic or frequent low levels, falling below 70 mg. are indicative of low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is considered a potential serious or even fatal condition if left untreated. Some symptoms of low blood glucose levels include (but are not limited to) irritability, lethargic (lack of energy) as well as the loss of consciousness. People who experience persistent or frequent bouts of hyperglycemia can experience diseases related to blood glucose - mainly diabetes which can result in damage to the eyes, kidneys and nerves.

Persons who experience symptoms of high or low blood sugar should take a blood glucose test which will measure the amount of glucose present in the bloodstream. Physicians who perform testing for glucose levels are usually checking for the presence of various diabetes diseases, including type I, type II or gestational diabetes. There are many types of glucose tests available. The fasting blood glucose test is administered in order to check glucose level amounts following an 8 hour fast. Normal levels for this test are considered to be between 70 and 99 mg. There is also a postprandial blood sugar test that is administered which measures blood glucose levels within the blood two hours following eating a meal. Normal glucose levels in the blood for this test are considered between 70 and 145 mg. Another type of test, called random blood sugar testing monitors glucose levels at random intervals throughout the day - independent of the time or whether or not meals have been consumed. Normal glucose readings for this test are considered to be between 70 and 125 mg. There is also the oral glucose tolerance test which is frequently administered to women in the mid-stages of pregnancy. With this test, glucose levels are measured following drinking a sugary drink which contains glucose.

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