A blood glucose reading of 160 mg/dL is not normal regardless of age

A fasting blood sugar reading of 160 mg/dL is abnormal and falls squarely within the diabetes range, according to specialist Dr. Rajiv Kovil.

Diabetes is clinically diagnosed through parameters including a fasting plasma glucose level of 126 mg/dL or higher, or an HbA1c of 6.5% or greater.

Temporary spikes in blood glucose can be triggered by carbohydrate-heavy meals, acute infections, severe stress, sleep deprivation, or certain medications.