Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a test used to measure your average blood sugar levels over the past 3 months. It is an important indicator of diabetes control and can help you understand how well your body manages blood sugar. In this article, we will discuss what HbA1c is, why it is important, and how it can be used for more than just Diabetes management. We will also discuss the different levels of HbA1c and what they mean.

Listen To The Podcast On Managing Your A1C Here:

Click here to download this episode to your computer.

What is Hemoglobin A1c?

Hemoglobin A1c (or HbA1c) is a type of hemoglobin found in red blood cells that binds with sugar (glucose). The amount of glucose bound to the hemoglobin is directly proportional to the average blood sugar value over the past 3 months. The HbA1c test measures this amount of glucose and indicates your average blood sugar level.

Using the marker hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), which officially assesses the proportion of your red blood cells whose hemoglobin proteins are glaciated, or covered with sugar, think of the test as an “average blood sugar” reading.

Although managing diabetes is its primary association, its importance extends beyond that. According to research, even small increases in HbA1c levels are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, kidney damage, and other illnesses.

• 4.8-5.6 is considered the normal range for HbA1c
• 5.7-6.5 is pre-diabetic.
• 6.6 and higher is considered diabetic.

Practitioners of functional medicine use HbA1c to detect insulin resistance and pre-diabetes in their early phases, enabling prompt therapies through dietary, physical activity, and lifestyle adjustments. People can dramatically lower their chance of getting crippling diseases by monitoring and maintaining appropriate HbA1c levels.

Natural Methods of Blood Sugar Management

• Diet: Cut down on highly processed foods and sugary treats. See our Dirobi UnDiet for 7 simple ways to live and eat in a simple, but healthy way. Focus on protein with each meal, and get enough fiber.
• Supplements: Both Pounds and Inches Drops and Mimi’s Miracle Multi are specifically designed for both weight loss and good blood sugar management.
• Lifestyle: Eat at regular times, drink plenty of water, avoid soda.

Why is Hemoglobin A1c Important?

Hemoglobin A1c is important because it can give doctors and patients an indication of how their blood sugar is being managed. High levels of HbA1c indicate that blood sugar levels are too high, which means that blood sugar is not being controlled properly. Lower levels of HbA1c indicate better blood sugar regulation.

How to Monitor Hemoglobin A1c

The best way to monitor HbA1c is to get a blood test at least twice a year. This will give you an indication of your average blood sugar over the past 3 months and can help you determine if your blood sugar is being managed properly.

Different Levels of Hemoglobin A1c

The American Diabetes Association(ADA) recommends that people aim for an HbA1c level between 4.8-5.6 percent. Pre-diabetic HbA1c range is considered to be between 5.7-6.5 percent, and Diabetic is 6.6 and above.

Conclusion

Hemoglobin A1c is an important test for people with diabetes, but it’s also a really important marker for all grown ups to be aware of as well, for preventive reasons.

It’s important to get your HbA1c tested at least twice a year and to keep track of your daily glucose readings, too. If your HbA1c is higher than 6 percent, it may indicate that diabetes is not being managed properly and you should talk to your doctor about what changes need to be made.

In addition to regular testing and monitoring, there are lifestyle changes that can help lower your HbA1c level. These include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing stress.

By getting regular HbA1c tests and monitoring your glucose levels, you can ensure that your diabetes is being well-managed and that you are staying healthy.

Good diabetes management can help to reduce the risk of getting diabetes such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. It’s important to take control of your health by understanding and monitoring your HbA1c levels so that you can manage your diabetes effectively.

If you are unsure of how to best manage your blood sugar or have questions about hemoglobin A1c, talk to your doctor. They can provide guidance and support to help you understand and monitor your blood sugar in a way that works for you.