HbA1c, also known as Glycated Hemoglobin, is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2 to 3 months. It is a key marker used to diagnose and monitor diabetes and prediabetes.

 

What does HbA1c measure? Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. When glucose (sugar) circulates in your blood, some of it attaches to hemoglobin. The higher your blood sugar levels, the more glucose binds to hemoglobin, forming glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c).

 

The HbA1c test shows the percentage of hemoglobin that is glycated.

 

What are normal HbA1c levels?

 

• Normal: Below 5.7%
• Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
• Diabetes: 6.5% or higher

 

For people with diabetes, the goal is often to keep HbA1c below 7%, but this can vary based on individual health needs.

 

Image credit: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/924261 (CC0 Public domain)

 

References:

 

1. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/hemoglobin-a1c-hba1c-test/
2. https://www.diabetes.ascensia.co.uk/about-diabetes/hba1c-monitoring/
3. https://healthify.nz/health-a-z/h/hba1c-testing/
4. https://www.diabetes.co.uk/what-is-hba1c.html
5. www.healthylife.werindia.com

 

Why Is HbA1c Important?

 

 

Foods That Help To Lower HbA1C Levels

 

 

Healthy Fats And Probiotic Rich Foods

 

Herbs, Spices And Protein Rich Foods

 

General Tips To Maintain HbA1C

 

 

Daily Natural Tips For Lowering HbA1c Level