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Checking it at the right time can help you get the most accurate picture of your blood sugar patterns. Why is it important to monitor blood sugar? According to experts, regularly checking your blood sugar levels helps you understand how your body responds to different factors like food, activity, stress, and even medications. It helps track trends and identify patterns over time. Also, there are times when you would help identify hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia - high or low blood sugar levels. You can also adjust your meal timings and medications accordingly. Best times to check your blood sugar levels The time you check your blood sugar levels depends on various factors. Different timings to do that include: Fasting (Early in the morning) A fasting blood glucose level is measured after eight or more hours without eating anything. Testing just after you wake up shows how your body manages your blood sugar levels overnight. Doctors say it is helpful, especially if you are on medications for insulin. Before eating Testing your blood sugar before you eat anything helps you know how high or low your blood sugar is before eating food. It helps you decide adjustments for not just meal portions but also what food you should be eating. It also helps you understand the impact of stress or activity on your glucose levels throughout the day. After eating Two hours after you eat is the best time to know how well your body can handle the food you have eaten. A spike in blood sugar at least two hours after eating is normal but should not be too high. The results that come post-meals help you know about the foods that can lead to bigger spikes and help you size your food accordingly. Before you sleep When you check your sugar levels right before you hit the bed, you may reduce the risk of overnight lows or highs - both of which can be detrimental to your health. Bedtime blood sugar checks are useful for checking if dinner or late-night snacks affect your blood sugar. They also help reduce stress and give peace of mind before you crash. What happens when your numbers are not in target? If your numbers are way over the targets, you must look for patterns and note them, especially before and after meals. Always discuss the readings with your doctor before making changes to any medications or your diet. According to experts, illness, stress, and hydration can affect your readings in the long term. How often should you check blood sugar levels? The frequency with which you check your blood sugar depends on your needs and health goals. However, according to doctors, these guidelines can be extremely helpful: Type 1 diabetes At least four times a day, or you can also wear a continuous glucose monitor. Type 2 diabetes At least two to four times a day, or occasional checks, depending on what your doctor says. No diabetes Occasional checks can give you insights and help monitor for insulin resistance or prediabetes.