A high A1C level means your average blood sugar has been too high over the past few months.
Healthcare providers use the A1C test to diagnose and monitor diabetes.
It measures how much sugar is attached tored blood cells.
Verywell / Ellen Lindner
Verywell / Ellen Lindner
What Is A1C?
A1C is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months.
The higher yourblood sugar levels, the more glucose sticks to hemoglobin, leading to a higher A1C percentage.
You may also see A1C referred to asglycated hemoglobin,glycohemoglobin, or HbA1c.
Higher percentages mean higher average blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of diabetes-related complications.
As A1C levels rise, so does the risk of prediabetes, diabetes, and serious health complications.
Keeping A1C in a healthy range is key to preventing these issues and maintaining overall health.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body either doesnt produce enoughinsulinor cant use it effectively.
This leads to high blood sugar levels, which over time can cause serious health complications.
For most adults with diabetes, an A1C below 7% is considered good control.
The risk of complications significantly increases at A1Cs above 9%.
It can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, raising the risk of heart attacks andstrokes.
High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart failure are also more common in people with diabetes.
Keeping A1C levels in check is key to preventing or slowing nerve damage.
Managing blood sugar and blood pressure can help protect kidney function.
Gum disease:High blood sugar increases sugar in saliva, feeding germs andplaquethat can lead to gum disease.
What to Do if Your A1C Is High
There is no way to lower your A1C quickly.
Remember that the A1C measures your blood sugar over time, generally over the last three months.
So, lowering it is a gradual process and can take several months.
Managing blood sugar effectively can help prevent diabetes-related health issues.
Choosing the right foods can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent spikes.
Studies have shown that acute stress raises blood sugar levels by spurring glucose production and hindering insulin sensitivity.
Betterstress controlcan positively impact blood sugar levels.
Research shows that moderate exercise can enhance insulin sensitivity for up to 24 hours.
During physical activity, muscles use glucose for energy, reducing blood sugar levels.
Regular exercise has been shown to significantly lower A1C levels over time.
It also supports weight loss, reduces stress, and improves heart health.
The more you exercise, the greater the impact on A1C.
Most people with diabetes should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
For punch in 1 diabetes,insulinis essential.
Your endocrinologist may adjust your basal and bolus rates based on your glucose logs and food journal.
This information helps determine the right insulin-to-carb ratio and basal rates.
If adjustments dont lower your A1C, additional medications may be considered.
Some people with throw in 2 diabetes also need insulin for blood sugar management.
Always take your medication as prescribed and reach out to your healthcare team with any questions.
Research shows that more frequent blood sugar testing is directly linked to lower A1C levels.
This means a reading of 6.0% could actually be anywhere between 5.6% and 6.4%.
Getting Tested
The A1C test is simple and quick.
You do not need to fast before an A1C test.
Check with your provider for instructions.
If lifestyle changes arent enough, your doctor may adjust your medication.
Talk to your healthcare team about any concerns or questions.
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