What Is A1C And How Do You Manage It?

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By Stephen Ross


Having good health is important, especially those that struggle with diabetes. It is important to stay on top of blood sugar levels to make sure they stay controlled. There are tests that individuals may have to go through that are deemed important. One common question that individuals want to know is what is A1C testing?

Oftentimes, diabetes sufferers are able to check their blood glucose levels from the comfort of their own home. However, it may not give the most accurate account of what is going on in their bodies. As a precaution, doctors give a test that can measure blood sugar averages for up to three months. This test, the A1C test, gives more detail of whether or not a diabetes management program is working for the individual.

The ADA(American Diabetes Association) states that A1C tests should be taken two or three times a year, no matter how stable levels have been. Tests are usually performed in a doctor's office and takes only 10 minutes to find out the results. These tests determine if there should be any type of modifications made in the treatment plan. Again, depending upon the physician, they may decide to run the test three more times during the year.

The test measures the amount of glycated hemoglobin in the blood stream. Glucose usually binds to the glycates of the hemoglobin. The glycated hemoglobin increases depending upon the amount of glucose in the body.

Levels 5.7 percent or below are considered normal. Levels from 5.7 percent to 6.4 points to pre diabetes. Levels that go beyond 6.5 usually results in a diagnoses of Type 2 diabetes. The main goal is to make sure that A1C levels are lowered and are controlled over a long period of time.

Goals are different for every individual. Different factors can play a huge role. They can include how advanced the diabetes is, age, and even health conditions. One goal that many diabetics choose is to stay under the 7 percent mark. Anything over this level may result in complications that can be devastating. This can include nerve damage, eye issues, and maybe even the loss of limbs.

Diabetes may take a lot of work in controlling, however it is something that can be managed. The harder an individual works to control it, the better their health will be. Having a healthier lifestyle sometimes means that changes need to made to promote they type of life an individual wants to live.

Many wonder what can be done to lower A1C levels. This can be done by exercising on a consistent basis. Just spending 30 minutes a day can make a difference. Also eating a proper diet is just as important. Eating fruits, vegetables and lean proteins in small portions is a great start.

It is so important to develop a good eating schedule to prevent blood glucose levels from spiking. Never skip meals but be consistent. Treatment plans that created by a physician should be adhered to unless a modification needs to take place. Having good A1C levels is a way to ensure that a healthy lifestyle will continue to be beneficial.




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