A1C machine is commonly used to measure the amount of glucose in your blood. What does this mean? How is A1C different from other types of glucose tests? What are the pros and cons of using A1C compared to another test? One way to find out more about it is to read on!
How to Interpret an A1C Value
An A1C is a diagnostic test used to measure blood sugar control over the past two to three months. The test measures average blood sugar levels over the previous two to three months. Diabetes patients and people with prediabetes are especially interested in an A1C number because it can help them better monitor their diabetes care.
The goal of diabetes treatment is to keep blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible. An A1C above 7 percent indicates that your blood sugar control has slipped, and you may need to adjust your diabetes medications or follow a stricter diabetes diet. An A1C number below 6 percent is generally considered good glucose control.
The Importance of the A1C Measurement
The A1C blood test is a long-term measure of blood sugar control. People with diabetes must keep their A1C levels below 7%. However, if your A1C level is above 7%, you may need to take additional steps to control your blood sugar.
The A1C test measures how well the body’s cells use glucose (sugar) to produce energy. Glucose levels are high when the body doesn’t use it fast enough to meet the needs of the cells and low when it uses it properly.
Normal levels of A1C vary from person to person, but most people with diabetes have an A1C level above 6%. The average American has an A1C level of 7%. Levels over 8% are considered severe forms of diabetes and can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and blindness.
