How is my postprandial sugar level less than fasting sugar?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 21 years old. I am not a diabetic nor my parents are. Recently, I checked my blood sugar levels fasting sugar: 100 mg/dL and postprandial: 81 mg/dL and HbA1c: 4.9 %. On a routine ultrasound scan, two years ago I was diagnosed with bilateral polycystic ovaries and doctor told me not to take any medication but just do regular exercise which I could not do (sedentary lifestyle). Am I diabetic yet? Is it because of PCOS? Also, how is my postprandial sugar levels less than fasting sugar?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. Fasting and postprandial blood sugar levels are an indicator of your blood sugar on the day of testing. On the day of testing, if you have eaten less food than usual, or if you have indulged in physical activity after the meal, you could get a lower postprandial blood sugar reading. You could also have high secretion of insulin, which can be regulated by following a healthy lifestyle of a balanced diet and regular exercise (which you already seem to be following). HbA1C is a better indicator of blood sugar control. It shows your blood sugar control over the last couple of months. Since your HbA1C is within a normal range, you do not have anything to worry. PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) is a risk factor for developing diabetes. Since you are following a healthy lifestyle, you are at less risk of developing diabetes. Continue your healthy habits, make conscious positive efforts, but stop worrying. Stress is a risk factor for many chronic diseases, one of which is diabetes. Hence, keep calm and carry on. Keep checking your HbA1C once in six months to keep your mind calm. As long as HbA1C is normal, you do not have to worry about diabetes. As for PCOS, keep it checked with yearly ultrasound scans. Go to reputable laboratories to avoid erroneous reports.