Are you familiar with the term “A1C”and how this relates to blood sugar?
A1C, also referred to as glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), is linked to blood sugar as it measures how much sugar is attached to the blood of the hemoglobin protein. A1C is expressed in percentage and is tested through blood tests. A1C is an indication of how blood sugar is controlled over 2-3 months. It is very medically significant regarding blood sugar management. When A1C is high, this indicates that blood sugar is poorly controlled and could lead to the diagnosis of prediabetes/diabetes.
What is considered a normal A1C?
According to the CDC, a normal A1C falls below 5.7%, an A1C between the ranges of 5.7%- 6.4% is an indicator of prediabetes and an A1C of 6.5% or above is an indicator of diabetes.
How often do you need to check your A1C?
If your A1C is within the normal range, you can test your A1c twice a year. If you are pre-diabetic, your A1C should be tested once every year and if you are diabetic, take insulin or your blood sugar is consistently uncontrolled, you may need to have frequent checks of your A1C-perhaps four (4) times a year.
If you are in any way concerned about your blood sugar or have been diagnosed with prediabetes or diabetes, consult with a dietitian at the soonest to help manage your blood sugar.
Dima Salhoobi, RD, CDN, MS
2025A Central Park Ave
Yonkers, NY 10710
(914)426-3896
