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Normal Blood Sugar Levels by Age Chart

Know normal blood sugar levels by age, know the normal levels, how it changes with age, symptoms of unbalanced sugar and how to maintain a healthy blood sugar level.

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Written by Dr. Siri Nallapu

Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)

Last updated on 4th Aug, 2025

Introduction

Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is essential for overall well-being, especially as we age. Blood sugar, or glucose, is the primary source of energy for our body’s cells. However, when levels are too high or too low, it can lead to health complications, including diabetes.

This article explains normal blood sugar levels for different age groups, why they matter, and how you can keep them in check.

What Are Normal Blood Sugar Levels?

Blood sugar levels vary depending on age, health conditions, and whether you’ve eaten recently. Here’s a general guideline for normal blood sugar levels:

Fasting Blood Sugar (Before Eating)

  • Adults (18+ years): 70–99 mg/dL

  • Children & Teens (under 18): 70–100 mg/dL

  • Older Adults (65+ years): May be slightly higher (80–130 mg/dL) due to age-related changes

  • Post-Meal Blood Sugar (2 Hours After Eating)

  • Adults & Children: Less than 140 mg/dL

  • Older Adults: Less than 160 mg/dL

HbA1c (Average Blood Sugar Over 3 Months)

  • Normal: Below 5.7%

  • Prediabetes: 5.7%–6.4%

  • Diabetes: 6.5% or higher

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Why Do Blood Sugar Levels Change with Age?

As we grow older, our body’s ability to regulate blood sugar may decline due to:

  1. Reduced insulin sensitivity, which is a hormone that controls blood sugar.

  2. Slower metabolism

  3. Lifestyle factors like diet, activity levels

  4. Other health conditions like high blood pressure, cholesterol.

Children and teens may experience fluctuations due to growth spurts, hormones, and activity levels.

Symptoms of Unbalanced Blood Sugar

High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia)

  1. Frequent urination

  2. Increased thirst

  3. Fatigue

  4. Blurred vision

  5. Slow-healing wounds

Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

  1. Shakiness or dizziness

  2. Sweating

  3. Hunger

  4. Confusion

  5. Rapid heartbeat

If you experience these symptoms often, consult a doctor for proper evaluation.

How to Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar Levels?

1. Eat a Balanced Diet

  • Choose whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

  • Limit sugary foods, refined carbs, and processed snacks.

  • Include fibre-rich foods (vegetables, fruits, legumes) to slow sugar absorption.

2. Stay Active

  • Exercise regularly (walking, yoga, strength training).

  • Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.

3. Monitor Blood Sugar Regularly

  • If you have diabetes or prediabetes, check your levels as advised by your doctor.

  • Use a glucometer or continuous glucose monitor (CGM).

4. Manage Stress & Sleep Well

  • Stress raises blood sugar—practice meditation or deep breathing.

  • Get 7–9 hours of sleep to help regulate insulin.

5. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water to help the kidneys flush out excess sugar.

6. Avoid Smoking & Excessive Alcohol

Both can disrupt blood sugar control.

When to See a Doctor?

Consult a healthcare provider if:

  • Your fasting blood sugar is consistently above 100 mg/dL.

  • You experience frequent high or low blood sugar episodes.

  • You have a family history of diabetes.

Early detection and management can prevent complications like heart disease, nerve damage, and kidney problems.

Final Thoughts

Keeping blood sugar levels in a healthy range is crucial at every age. By making smart lifestyle choices, monitoring regularly, and seeking medical advice when needed, you can reduce the risk of diabetes and enjoy better health.

Consult a Top diabetic specialist

Dr Syed Mateen Pasha, General Physician

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General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

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Dr. Dhanraj K, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Dhanraj K

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

25 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine - Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad

Hyderabad

Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad

recommendation

91%

(375+ Patients)

1000

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr Bhargav Vuppumalla, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

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General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

5 Years • MBBS MD GENERAL MEDICINE

Bengaluru

Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru

550

83 Cashback

Dr. Zulkarnain, General Physician

Dr. Zulkarnain

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS, PGDM, FFM

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

40 Cashback

Consult a Top diabetic specialist

Dr Syed Mateen Pasha, General Physician

Dr Syed Mateen Pasha

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

60 Cashback

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No Booking Fees

Dr. Dhanraj K, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. Dhanraj K

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

25 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine - Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad

Hyderabad

Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad

recommendation

91%

(375+ Patients)

1000

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr Bhargav Vuppumalla, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr Bhargav Vuppumalla

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

5 Years • MBBS MD GENERAL MEDICINE

Bengaluru

Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru

550

83 Cashback

Dr. Zulkarnain, General Physician

Dr. Zulkarnain

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS, PGDM, FFM

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

40 Cashback

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