Blood Glucose Converter

Understanding Blood Glucose Units

Blood glucose (blood sugar) levels can be measured in two different units depending on the country or healthcare system. Understanding the conversion between these units is essential for managing diabetes effectively, especially when traveling or using international medical resources.

The Conversion Formula

The conversion between mg/dL and mmol/L is based on the molecular weight of glucose:

• mg/dL to mmol/L: Divide by 18.0182 (or multiply by 0.0555)
• mmol/L to mg/dL: Multiply by 18.0182

The factor 18.0182 comes from the molecular weight of glucose (180.182 g/mol) divided by 10.

Which Countries Use Which Units?

mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter)

Used in:

• United States
• Japan
• France
• Egypt
• Colombia
• Israel

mmol/L (millimoles per liter)

Used in:

• United Kingdom
• Canada
• Australia
• China
• Most of Europe
• Most of Asia

Blood Glucose Target Ranges

For Non-Diabetics

• Fasting: 70-99 mg/dL (3.9-5.5 mmol/L)
• 2 hours after eating: Less than 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)

For People with Diabetes (ADA Recommendations)

• Before meals: 80-130 mg/dL (4.4-7.2 mmol/L)
• 1-2 hours after meals: Less than 180 mg/dL (10.0 mmol/L)

Common Conversions Quick Reference

mg/dL	mmol/L
70	3.9
80	4.4
100	5.6
120	6.7
140	7.8
180	10.0
200	11.1
250	13.9
300	16.7