If you're using a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM), you may have seen a number called Time in Range (TIR). But what exactly does it mean, and why is it important?
Simply put, Time in Range shows how much of the day your blood sugar stays within a healthy target zone.
For most people with diabetes, the standard range is 70 to 180 mg/dL — but your doctor or diabetes team might set a slightly different range just for you.
Here’s why Time in Range matters:
- Higher TIR = better daily control. It means fewer highs and lows, and your body spends more time in a healthy place.
- Better TIR = lower risk of complications. Studies show that when you stay in range more often, you’re less likely to have problems with your eyes, kidneys, heart, and nerves over time.
How Is Time in Range Measured?
Your CGM tracks your blood sugar all day and night. It then adds up how many hours you spent:
- In range (70–180 mg/dL)
- Above range (over 180 mg/dL)
- Below range (under 70 mg/dL)
If you spend 15 out of 24 hours between 70–180, your TIR is 62%, like the example below:
What Should My Goal Be?
Most experts recommend aiming for a TIR of 70% or higher.
That means about 17 out of 24 hours each day your blood sugar is in the healthy zone!
Of course, everyone's different. Even small improvements — like going from 50% to 60% — are great progress. Every 5% increase in TIR can lower your risk of complications. 🎯
What Else Should I Know?
- It’s normal to have some ups and downs.
Life isn’t perfect, and neither is blood sugar. Focus on trends over days and weeks — not just one day. - Use patterns, not panic.
If you notice certain meals, stress, exercise, or sleep changes pushing your numbers up or down, you can make gentle adjustments with help from your care team. - Pair TIR with other info.
A good Time in Range doesn’t mean every moment feels perfect — so we also watch for how many lows you’re having and your glucose variability (how much your numbers swing).
Takeaways
Time in Range is your blood sugar’s “report card” for the day. The more you stay in range, the better your body feels and the more you protect your long-term health. Even small improvements can make a big difference over time!