Blood Glucose and Ketones — What’s Normal, What’s Not

👉 Looking for the simple chart?
See BGL & Ketones — Quick Reference.

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Understanding target ranges for blood glucose and ketones helps you know when things are on track — and when urgent action is needed.

Blood Glucose (BGL) Targets

Typical goals for adults with Type 1 Diabetes (your individual plan may differ):

• Before meals: 4–7 mmol/L
• 2 hours after meals: < 10 mmol/L
• Bedtime: 6–8 mmol/L

When to take action

• < 4 mmol/L: Hypoglycaemia → treat with fast carbs (see Hypo Treatment).
• > 14 mmol/L: High risk zone → check ketones, consider correction insulin.
• Persistent highs despite correction: contact your diabetes team.

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Ketone Levels

Ketones indicate how much the body is breaking down fat for fuel. In Type 1 Diabetes, high ketones with high glucose can mean diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) risk.

• < 0.6 mmol/L: Normal (safe)
• 0.6–1.4 mmol/L: Mild elevation — recheck, hydrate, give correction insulin
• 1.5–2.9 mmol/L: Moderate — follow sick-day plan, increase monitoring
• ≥ 3.0 mmol/L: High risk of DKA — seek urgent medical help

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Red Flags (Seek Help Immediately)

• Ketones ≥ 3.0 mmol/L
• Vomiting or unable to keep fluids down
• Abdominal pain, rapid breathing, drowsiness
• Persistent BGL > 14 mmol/L despite correction insulin

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Related Guides

• BGL & Ketones — Quick Reference
• Blood Glucose Testing — How and When to Check
• Emergency Actions — Hypos, Highs, and Ketones
• Sick-Day Management for Type 1 Diabetes

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Note: These ranges are general guidance. Always follow your own diabetes care plan and consult your healthcare team.