What are the benchmark numbers for well-controlled diabetes?

The recommended target for self-tested blood glucose values is between 90 and 130 for plasma values before meals and less than 180 after meals, and target A1C values should be less than 7 to keep diabetes in control, according to the New York State Department of Health.

An A1C test measures blood glucose levels over the previous three months, which is useful in tracking how effective the course of diabetes treatment is over time, says the New York State Department of Health. Blood glucose levels can be tested by a diabetic at any time, and they are usually tested before and after meals to gauge how effective treatment is on a daily basis.