Final answer:
A blood sugar level of 120 mg/100 ml is within the normal fasting range. This value indicates that the individual's body is effectively managing blood sugar through insulin activity. It is only when fasting blood glucose consistently surpasses 125 mg/dL that one might be diagnosed with diabetes.
Step-by-step explanation:
If your blood sugar is 120 mg/100 ml, it falls within the normal range for fasting blood glucose as described by normal blood glucose levels. The average fasting range is between 70 mg/dL to 130 mg/dL. After a meal, blood sugar levels may rise up to 140 mg/dL but should return to normal in healthy individuals due to the action of insulin. If there is a problem with insulin production, sensitivity, or action, blood sugar levels might remain consistently high, leading to hyperglycemia or diabetes.
It's important to note that blood sugar levels should be interpreted in context; a single measurement of 120 mg/100 ml doesn't necessarily indicate a health issue. Blood glucose levels can be influenced by recent food intake, physical activity, stress, and other factors. Patients who are diabetic or pre-diabetic need to consider the pattern of their blood glucose levels over time and in various states (fasting, post-prandial, and random) to assess their condition effectively.
For someone who is not diabetic, a blood sugar level of 120 mg/100 ml may simply indicate a normal response to dietary intake. Medical professionals consider a fasting blood glucose level between 100 to 125 mg/dL as a sign of pre-diabetes, and levels above 125 mg/dL may result in a diabetes diagnosis. It's essential for individuals to monitor their blood sugar and consult with healthcare providers to maintain it within healthy limits and prevent complications associated with abnormal glucose levels.