If you or a loved one has diabetes, you need to know about some important health tests, what they mean, and what the optimal values are.
You will hear the term "A1C" a lot. If you've ever been curious about what the A1C is, this guide will make it easy to understand.
What is A1C, and why does it matter?
A1C is the name of a blood test that tells you how much sugar has been in your blood
on average over the last two to three months. The test is also known as the HbA1C test; hemoglobin A1C. In simple terms, it tells you how much glucose (sugar) is sticking to your red blood cells.
Why does this matter?
Because having high blood sugar for too long can cause major health issues like heart disease, kidney problems, and damage to nerves.
A1C is a better measure of how well blood sugar is being controlled over time, than daily fingerstick tests, which only show a small snapshot.
The goal for most people with diabetes is to keep their A1C below 7%. Based on your unique situation, your doctor may suggest a different goal.
How do you do the A1C test?
The A1C test is quick, and you don't have to fast before it. How it works:
1. A small amount of blood is taken, usually from your arm or by sticking your finger.
2. It is checked to see what percentage of the blood is sugar-coated hemoglobin.
3. You should have the results in one or two days.
The steps are clear and easy to follow and the test is usually ordered by your primary care provider or Endocrinologist.
How to Understand Your A1C Results
The number you get for A1C will be a percentage. So this is what the numbers mean:
Normal: less than 5.7%
Prediabetes: 5.7 - 6.4%
Diabetes: 6.5% or higher
Don't give up if your result is higher than normal or whatever your goal is. Take it as a sign to get back to healthier habits.
Managing your diabetes isn't about being perfect; it's about making steady progress.
What Makes A1C Levels Change?
Your A1C levels can be changed by a number of things. You can stay on top of these things if you know what they are.
1. Food
What you eat has a direct effect on how much sugar is in your blood. Foods that are high in carbs and sugar can cause spikes, but meals that are well-balanced with vegetables and fruits high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats can help keep them steady.
2. Being physically active
When you work out, your body uses insulin better, which lowers your blood sugar. A walk after dinner is a small step that can really help.
3. Medicines
If you have diabetes and take insulin or diabetes medicines, it's very important to stick to the plan your doctor gives you.
4. Stress
Chronic stress can raise blood sugar levels. Managing stress effectively, even simple things like stopping to deep breathe a few times during times of stress, can be helpful.
5. Being sick or having an infection
When your body is fighting off an illness, your blood sugar may rise for a short time.
Poor sleep can disrupt blood sugar regulation; having a regular routine before bed can be helpful.
How to Get Your A1C Down: Useful Advice
To lower your A1C, you don't have to make big changes to your life. Small changes that are easy to make can make a big difference. What works is this:
1. Make meals ahead of time
On busy days, having a plan makes it less tempting to grab foods that aren't as good for you. Eat a lot of vegetables, fruit, lean proteins, and whole grains at each meal.
2. Keep moving
Going to the gym isn't the only way to be active. Your blood sugar can go down by going for a bike ride, having a dance party, or going on a short walk.
3. Keep an eye on your blood sugar levels
Tracking your blood sugar can help you find patterns so you can make changes before your next A1C test.
4. Have a support system
The stress of managing diabetes is lessened when you have help from family, friends, a diabetes coach, or an online community.
5. Put self-care and rest first
It's important to take care of yourself. You can recharge in small ways, like taking a few minutes of quiet time.
Questions That People Ask About A1C
1. Can an A1C level be too low?
Yes. Most of the time, having low A1C levels is a good thing. However, having levels below 4% could mean other health problems, so you should see a doctor.
2. How often should you check your A1C?
The A1C level of most people with diabetes should be checked every three to six months. If your numbers are consistently at target, your doctor may suggest that you get tested less often.
3. What if the A1C value is wrong?
Some health problems, like anemia or kidney disease, can affect A1C results. Talk to your healthcare provider about any worries you have at all times.
The Big Picture: A1C is a Tool, Not a Report
Managing your diabetes is a process, not a race to be perfect. The A1C test is a useful way to learn about your health and make changes for the better.
Keep your eye on progress instead of perfection, and enjoy the little wins that add up over time.
To take charge of managing your diabetes, you need to first understand what the A1C is, what it tests, what the normal or target values are, and what your actual value is.
It's not just about the number, making your life healthier and happier is of utmost importance. It's possible for little changes to have big effects. Just take one day at a time.
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About the Author
Hi! I’m Beth, a Registered Nurse and Certified Diabetes Educator. I provide diabetes coaching for newly diagnosed people with diabetes and also work with people who have been living with diabetes for some time.
With 1:1 coaching, you will feel empowered and supported to confidently manage your diabetes effectively - without it controlling your life! I can help you make sure that you feel good, stay in optimal health and take care of your well-being at all times.
First call is on me! Let’s talk.
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