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You've probably had your blood sugar level checked: a quick finger prick and a drop of blood will show how much sugar is in your bloodstream. This is a useful tool for diagnosing and treating diabetes, but it only shows your blood sugar level at that time. Unless you have fasted and timed the test correctly, it is not an accurate way to know how your body processes sugar all the time.
vanA1C levelis your average blood sugar level over the past three months. It helps to know this numberyour doctorfind and treat diabetes (and prediabetes) before you experience serious complications.
Why your A1C level matters
Diabetes doesseventh most common cause of deathin the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most cases of type 2 diabetes can be treated with diet, exercise and medications, but uncontrolled blood sugar levels increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, eye problems, foot and leg amputations and kidney failure.
About 30.3 million Americans have diabetes – that's about 9 percent of the U.S. population. Of the people with diabetes, 7.2 million are undiagnosed. Another 84.1 million American adults have prediabetes, meaning they are at risk of developing diabetes without medical intervention and lifestyle changes. Performing regular A1C testing can help your doctor detect the disease early, often while it is preventable. If you've already been diagnosed with diabetes, your A1C tells your doctor whether the current treatment plan is working.
What the numbers mean
The A1C test measures how much glucose is attached to the hemoglobin in your blood. The results are reported in percentages. Diagnosis of diabetes with aA1C-testdoctors use the following scale:
- Normal: less than 5 percent
- Prediabetes: 5.7 to 6.4 percent
- Diabetes: 6.5 percent or higher
It is recommended that diabetics maintain an A1C level below 7 percent to avoid complications.
7 Ways to Improve Your A1C
Whether you are managing diabetes or trying to avoid it, you can lower your blood sugar levels by:
1. Movement
Physical activity makes your body use insulin more efficiently, so it can better process the glucose in your blood. Consistent exercise can lower blood sugar levels and improve your A1C. It also lowers the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious diseases that diabetics are prone to. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise at least five days a week.
2. Eat well
Go easy on sweets and sugary drinks, white bread, potatoes, pasta, starchy vegetables and other carbohydrate-rich foods, as these raise your blood sugar levels. Instead, choose foods high in fiber, fruits and vegetables, small portions of lean meat and poultry, and low-fat milk or cheese.
3. Take medications as prescribed
Some people can control diabetes and prediabetes with diet and exercise; others need medication. The right medication and dosage varies from person to person, so work with your doctor to create an individualized treatment plan and then stick to it.
4. Manage your stress
Stress makes your body behave as if you are under attack. In preparation for a fight-or-flight response, the body stores energy in the form of glucose and fat. Over time, this can increase your A1C level. To reduce stress, make time to relax, spend time with people you love, and do things you enjoy. Mindful meditation and other relaxation techniques can also help. If you still feel chronically stressed, talk to your doctor.
5. Stick to a schedule
If you don't eat for too long, your blood sugar level may drop too low. You're also more likely to overeat later, causing your blood sugar levels to rise. Plan to eat three balanced meals and two healthy snacks every day.
6. Drink met mate
Drinking alcohol can cause your blood sugar levels to drop, especially if you haven't eaten or if your glucose levels are already low. Otherwise, the American Diabetes Association recommends that diabetics follow suitthe same guidelinesjust like everyone else: no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
7. Keep an eye on your numbers
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes, it is important to check your blood sugar levels as often as your doctor recommends to avoid spikes and dangerous drops. Your doctor will also want to closely monitor your A1C level to make sure your current treatment plan is controlling your condition.
Diabetes is a serious, lifelong condition, but with some healthy changesthe right healthcare providersin your corner you can still live a full and healthy life.
