What Is A1C Testing And The Purpose Behind It?

By Stephen Ross


Being healthy is a necessity for those who have high blood sugar. Staying in control of blood glucose levels is always a conquest. Many times, individuals who suffer with sugar diabetes often go through testing. What is A1C testing may be a question that many diabetes sufferers ask their doctors.

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 American Diabetes Association suggests to have A1C testing done twice a year, even if sugar levels have continued to be stable. Some doctors use a finger stick when performing the tests, with results being available after 10 minutes. The test determines if individualized treatment plans are working and what can be changed to make them better. Doctors may choose to run the tests three times a year.

Glycated hemoglobin is measured by measuring the amount of protein in blood cells. When sugar enters in the body it connects to hemoglobin. The more glucose that is present, the more glycated hemoglobin as well.

When a person has a level of 5.7 percent or lower, it is considered as being normal. Those that range from 5.7 to 6.4 are categorized as being pre diabetic. However, levels that extend above 6.5 brings a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes. The goal is to have controlled blood glucose levels of a good 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.

Although managing diabetes takes a lot of work, it is manageable. The more work a person puts into it, the better ones quality of life will become. The key is to follow a healthy lifestyle. Making the necessary changes will be worthwhile in the end.

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.

Maintain a schedule so that blood sugar levels don't spike or fall. Skipping meals is not good when it comes to controlling sugar levels. Continue to follow the treatment plan as specified by a physician as well as monitor blood sugar consistently. When an individual understands A1C levels, they have a better chance of controlling them, and living a better life.




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