By adminPosted on October 22, 2025October 31, 2025 Why Knowing Your Blood Sugar Levels Matters Blood sugar levels are the key to staying healthy. If your glucose levels get too high or too low, it can influence your energy, mood, and overall well-being over time. With regular blood sugar tests**, early detection of diabetes and other metabolic diseases is possible. In the Philippines, access to credible testing has become more accessible, enabling Filipinos to be proactive about their health before complications arise. What a Blood Sugar Test Measures A blood sugar test will determine the level of glucose running through your system. Glucose is the body’s primary fuel, obtained from the food you consume. Under normal circumstances, your body maintains a balance of glucose efficiently with insulin, but when there is a disruption in this equilibrium, blood sugar increases. The test will indicate if your body is metabolizing sugar normally and if you are at risk for diabetes. Types of Blood Sugar Tests There are a variety of tests to measure glucose levels. Your doctor will suggest one or more based on your age, symptoms, and medical history. 1. Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) Test This test is performed after an 8–12-hour fast. It provides a snapshot of how your body controls glucose without food intake. Normal readings are typically below 100 mg/dL. Readings between 100–125 mg/dL suggest prediabetes, while 126 mg/dL or higher may indicate diabetes. 2. Random Blood Sugar Test This can be performed at any time, between meals or not. It’s a rapid screening test commonly done in clinics or emergencies to determine if one has high blood sugar levels. 3. HbA1c Test This measures your three-month average blood sugar. It’s especially useful to check long-term glucose control in individuals with diabetes. 4. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) Used frequently in pregnancy, the test assesses the way your body metabolizes a glucose beverage over time. It can detect gestational diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance. When You Should Get a Blood Sugar Test If you experience frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained fatigue, or blurred vision, it’s wise to get tested. People with a family history of diabetes, those who are overweight, or individuals with high blood pressure or cholesterol should schedule regular tests even without symptoms. For adults with no known risk factors, experts recommend testing every three years. However, those with prediabetes or other risks should be screened annually. Where to Get Tested in the Philippines You can have a blood sugar test in the Philippines via: Hospitals and diagnostic centers with walk-in lab services. Community health centers, which can offer free or low-cost testing. Digital health platforms such as NowServing, where you can schedule online appointments with accredited clinics and labs across the country. Digital health platforms have streamlined medical testing for Filipinos so it no longer requires waiting in line or a trip. Blood Sugar Test Prices Prices vary based on test type and clinic: FBS test: ₱150–₱300 HbA1c test: ₱500–₱1,200 Random blood sugar test: ₱150–₱250 OGTT: ₱700–₱1,500 Public hospitals are cheaper, but private clinics mean quicker turnaround and more detailed results. Preparing for Your Test For fasting-based tests: Do not eat or drink anything other than water for a minimum of 8 hours prior to testing. Try not to exert yourself excessively before your appointment. Bring proper identification and any medical referrals necessary by your provider. By following these steps, you get precise readings that represent your actual health condition. What Your Blood Sugar Results Mean Your physician will interpret what your results mean: Normal: Blood sugar levels are within healthy range. Prediabetes: Blood glucose levels are elevated but not diabetic. Diabetes: Levels meet or surpass thresholds to be considered diagnostic, and medical treatment will be needed. If your levels are high, your doctor might suggest more tests, changes in your lifestyle, or medications. Detecting abnormalities early can avoid long-term effects like heart disease, nerve damage, or vision impairment. Taking Charge of Your Health Routine testing isn’t only reserved for diabetics—it’s for anyone who believes in preventive medicine. By having regular blood sugar tests in the Philippines scheduled, Filipinos can take charge of their well-being, mitigate risks, and preserve quality of life. With convenient access to clinics and online scheduling through NowServing, this essential move toward health has never been easier. Health
