Blood Glucose mmol/L to mg/dL
Translate lab or glucometer readings from millimoles per liter (mmol/L) to milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) using the internationally recognised factor of 18. Use the converted value to compare against fasting, pre-meal, or post-meal targets.
Informational tool only. Work with your healthcare provider to interpret blood glucose readings and adjust treatment plans.
Examples
- 5.0 mmol/L (fasting) ⇒ 90 mg/dL
- 7.0 mmol/L (post-meal) ⇒ 126 mg/dL
- 9.5 mmol/L ⇒ 171 mg/dL
FAQ
Why multiply by 18?
Glucose has a molecular weight of 180 g/mol. One mmol/L equals 18 mg/dL when you adjust for the deciliter volume, so multiplying by 18 converts the concentration.
Can this factor be used for other blood chemistries?
No. Each analyte uses its own molecular weight. For example, mmol/L to mg/dL conversion factors differ for cholesterol or potassium.
What are typical target ranges?
General adult targets are 70–99 mg/dL fasting, less than 140 mg/dL two hours after meals, and an A1C under 7% for many people with diabetes. Always confirm personalised goals with your clinician.
Additional Information
- Conversion formula: mg/dL = mmol/L × 18.
- To reverse the calculation, divide the mg/dL result by 18 to regain mmol/L.
- Meters in the United States often report mg/dL, while many countries use mmol/L—this tool bridges both standards.
- Log readings alongside time of day, meal details, and medication doses for richer trend insights.
Show your conversions trace back to the mole
Cite the mole base unit explainer whenever you convert mmol/L measurements so clinical teams understand how concentration standards align with ISO 80000-9 terminology.