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Type 2 diabetes: why blood sugar management matters

Key takeaways from this article

  • Managing your blood sugar is key to living well with type 2 diabetes and reducing the risk of complications, like heart and kidney disease1,2.
  • Understanding your body's signals and using simple blood sugar management tips, like regular meals and hydration, can help you stay in your target range3.
  • Focusing on these small lifestyle changes can be a powerful blood sugar control strategy that supports your energy, mood, and long-term health3.

If you’re living with type 2 diabetes, you’ve probably heard a lot about changes in your blood sugar. But you may have wondered what it really means for your day-to-day health, and why it matters so much.

Your body’s systems are interconnected, and small changes in one system can impact the others4. If you have type 2 diabetes, it can have an impact on your heart and kidneys, too5. For example, high blood sugar can damage your blood vessels and even double your risk of heart disease5. That’s why managing your blood sugar can help stabilise your body’s systems and reduce the risk of further complications1,2.

When you understand how diabetes affects your body, you’re in a better position to take control of your health.

Keep reading to take a closer look at how blood sugar affects your body, and how small changes to your daily routine can help you feel your best.

Why does managing your blood sugar matter?

Keeping your blood sugar within a healthy range is a key part of managing type 2 diabetes, and protecting your overall wellbeing. When your blood sugar is too high or too low, it can affect your energy, mood and even your ability to concentrate.

Over time, poor blood sugar management can increase the risk of serious complications, including heart disease6. But don’t worry! By learning to understand your blood sugar levels and how to keep them in check, you can feel better now and protect your health in the long run.

What happens when blood sugar is out of range?

Keeping your blood sugar within your target range is important, and your body will send you signals when your blood sugar isn’t where it should be:

Over time, if blood sugar levels aren’t well-managed, it can lead to complications like heart disease, kidney problems, nerve damage and vision issues. That’s why keeping on top of your blood sugar management is essential.

How does checking your blood sugar help?

Checking your blood sugar regularly is a simple way to stay in tune with your health, and prevent diabetes complications. It gives you insight into how your body responds to food, activity and medication. For more blood sugar control strategies, check out our guides with more tips on how to manage your diabetes treatment on the go.

Many people aim for a target range of 70–180 mg/dL and an A1c below 7%. Unsure about your target range, and what this means for you? Don’t worry - your healthcare professional will help you set the goals that are right for you and your treatment plan3.

Even a small improvement can make a big difference for your long-term health3! That’s a great reason to keep an eye on your levels and celebrate the progress you make.

Tips to help manage your blood sugar

Here are a few smart tips you can integrate into your daily life, to manage your blood sugar and help you feel your best7:

heart day
  • Eat breakfast: Skipping it can raise your blood sugar levels8
  • Stay hydrated: Dehydration can cause blood sugar to rise7
  • Stick to regular meals: Balanced meals with fibre, protein and healthy fats help keep your levels stable3,9. For more ideas on eating a balanced diet, visit our page for more tips!
  • Snack smart: Healthy snacks can prevent dips and spikes10
  • Know your range: Learn the signs of when your blood sugar is out of range and how to respond

And remember, if you’re unsure about your targets or how to manage your sugar levels, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare professional. They’re there to support you and can help you create a comprehensive plan that includes medication, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring.    

Ready to take control of your health? Start with small, achievable changes today! Download our guide for simple daily tips and tricks to help keep your blood sugar steady!

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Learn more about how diabetes impacts your body

Type 2 diabetes and heart disease prevention: what you need to know

Type 2 diabetes and heart disease prevention: what you need to know

When you’re living with type 2 diabetes, your heart health becomes even more important. It’s natural to feel concerned about your risk of heart disease, but understanding the connection can help you feel more confident and in control.

Type 2 diabetes and stroke prevention: reduce your risk

Type 2 diabetes and stroke prevention: reduce your risk

A stroke can happen suddenly and is a serious condition, but knowing how it happens – and what you can do to reduce your risk – can help you feel more confident and in control.

Tips for monitoring blood sugar levels

Tips for monitoring blood sugar levels

Learn how routine, strict recording methods, accurate readings and being vigilant can help keep track of your blood sugar levels.

Reference
  1. Kumar M, Dev S, Khalid MU, et al. The Bidirectional Link Between Diabetes and Kidney Disease: Mechanisms and Management. Cureus. 2023;15:e45615.
  2. NIDDK. Diabetes, Heart disease & Stroke. Available from: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/heart-disease-stroke. Last accessed: August 2025.
  3. ADA Standards of Care 2025; Battelino T et al., Diabetes Care. 2019;42(8):1593–1603.
  4. Bartsch RP, Liu KK, Bashan A, et al. Network Physiology: How Organ Systems Dynamically Interact. PLoS One. 2015;10:e0142143.
  5. CDC (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Diabetes and Your Heart. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/diabetes-complications/diabetes-and-your-heart.html. Last accessed: August 2025.
  6. Jankowski J, Floege J, Fliser D, et al. Cardiovascular Disease in Chronic Kidney Disease: Pathophysiological Insights and Therapeutic Options. Circulation. 2021;143:1157-1172.
  7. The Eatwell Guide. Diabetes UK. Available at: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/living-with-diabetes/eating/the-eatwell-guide. Last accessed: August 2025.
  8. Jakubowicz D, Wainstein J, Ahren Bo et al. Fasting until noon triggers increased postprandial hyperglycemia and impaired insulin response after lunch and dinner in individuals with type 2 diabetes: a randomized clinical trial. Diabetes Care. 2015 Oct;38(10):1820-6.
  9. Sutton EF et al. Cell Metab. 2018;27(6):1212-1221.e3.
  10. Diabetes UK. 10 tips for healthy eating if you are at risk of type 2 diabetes. Available from: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/preventing-type-2-diabetes/ten-tips-for-healthy-eating. Last accessed: August 2025.