Community Answer

Answered by Dr. Emily Carter, MD 🩺

A blood sugar level of 120 mg/dL can be interpreted differently depending on when the measurement was taken:

  • Fasting Blood Sugar (before eating): A level of 120 mg/dL is slightly above the normal range (70-99 mg/dL) and may indicate prediabetes or impaired fasting glucose. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
  • Postprandial (after eating): A level of 120 mg/dL 1-2 hours after eating is generally considered normal for most people.

Key Points:

  • Normal fasting blood sugar: 70-99 mg/dL
  • Prediabetes range: 100-125 mg/dL
  • Diabetes range: 126 mg/dL or higher

If you consistently see levels around 120 mg/dL while fasting, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor to rule out prediabetes or diabetes.

Last updated: 1/12/2025

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