What is a Safe Blood Sugar Level for the Body?

Sugar consumption affects the body's metabolic system. The amount of sugar entering the body must be just right—neither too little nor too much.

The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) states that excessive sugar consumption leads to increased blood sugar levels, or hyperglycemia. This occurs because insulin becomes resistant, meaning it is unable to perform its function of processing sugar into energy.

Hyperglycemia increases the risk of obesity and diabetes mellitus. Uncontrolled diabetes can disrupt the function of other organs, such as the heart and kidneys.

(See also: Many Indonesians Like to Add Sugar to Food and Drinks)

Controlling blood sugar levels is crucial. The first step is to understand whether your body has a balanced level. So, what are the appropriate blood sugar thresholds for the body?

Halodoc provides blood sugar levels based on age as follows:

* Children under 6 years old: For this category, the blood sugar limit is 80-200 mg/dL per day. Blood sugar levels can change when the child wakes up, eats, and before going to bed.

* Children 6-12 years old: For this age group, the blood sugar range is 80-180 mg/dL per day. Similar to the previous age group, the child's condition, such as whether they have eaten or not, should be considered when monitoring their sugar levels.

* Ages 13-19 years: The normal blood sugar level for this age group is 70-150 mg/dL per day. Halodoc mentions that diabetes in adolescents is very difficult to manage due to issues of responsibility and behavioral control related to environmental influences.

* Ages 20 and above: Halodoc explains that this age group should ideally have blood sugar levels of 100-180 mg/dL per day. Upon waking, blood sugar should be at its lowest point because the body has not eaten for approximately 8 hours.

Low blood sugar is categorized as a reading below 100 mg/dL. Levels below 70 mg/dL are considered dangerous.

Meanwhile, high blood sugar is considered to be above 130 mg/dL before meals or above 180 mg/dL after meals within 1-2 hours.

"Most people do not experience symptoms until their sugar levels reach 250 mg/dL or higher. The highest blood sugar level that is still considered safe is generally around 160-240 mg/dL," writes Halodoc on its website, which has been reviewed by Dr. Fadhli Rizal Makarim.

Please note that readings of low or high blood sugar should be confirmed through blood tests and consultation with a doctor.

(See also: Don't Forget to Check Your Health: Safe Cholesterol Levels in the Body)