What are the best times of the day to take blood sugar readings?

Individuals with type 1 diabetes should test their blood sugar four to eight times per day, including before meals or snacks, before and after exercising, before bed and sometimes during the night, notes Mayo Clinic. People with type 2 insulin controlled diabetes should test before meals and sometimes before bed.

It is important to note that people with type 1 diabetes may need to check their blood sugar levels more often if their medication is changed, they are ill or their daily routine changes, states Mayo Clinic. People with type 2 diabetes who do not take insulin and control their diabetes with exercise and diet alone may only need to test their blood sugar levels every few days.