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The Definition of Hemoglobin A1C

Diabetes affects more than 21 million people in America. Ninety to 95 percent of them have Type 2 diabetes. It is important for all diabetics to have their hemoglobin A1C level monitored because uncontrolled glucose levels or hyperglycemia can cause serious systemic complications. Hemoglobin A1C testing is a monitoring tool that will help with your diabetic treatment and prevention of these systemic complications.

  1. Definition

    • Hemoglobin A1C is the amount of the protein hemoglobin that has combined with glucose in a person's body. Diabetics test their hemoglobin A1C levels to monitor the average amount of glycosylated hemoglobin (glucose attached to hemoglobin) that has been in their blood over a two- to three-month period.

    Facts

    • For a hemoglobin A1C test, a physician will take a sample of the patient's blood and send it to a lab for testing. Based on the test, the physician can assess how well a diabetic treatment plan is working and can make any adjustments needed to improve care.
      The normal A1C level recommended by the American Diabetic Association is 7 percent or less. Maintaining such a level should prevent diabetic complications including heart attacks, strokes, blindness and nerve damage. A change in treatment is recommended for diabetics with hemoglobin A1C levels higher than 8 percent. Monitoring their hemoglobin A1C level every three to six months is recommended for diabetics.

    Benefits

    • Benefits of monitoring your hemoglobin A1C level include warding off or delaying the serious complications of diabetes, and keeping your A1C levels under control to improve your overall health. Improving your health and delaying or preventing diabetes symptoms can extend your life. A1C testing allows your health-care practitioner to recognize what changes in your treatment are needed.

    Recommended A1C Levels

    • Recommended A1C levels are set by two organizations, the Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and the American Diabetes Association.
      The ACE recommends A1C levels of 6.5 percent or lower, which is an average blood sugar reading of 135 mg/dl over a two- to three-month period.
      The ADA recommends A1C levels of 7 percent or lower, which is an average blood sugar reading of 150 mg/dl over a two- to three-month period.

    Managing Your AIC Levels

    • Managing your A1C levels involves managing your blood glucose levels. To do this:
      Eat a proper diet of fresh fruits, vegetables and proteins, and drink adequate fluids. Avoid sugars and eat a low-carbohydrate diet. Exercise daily to improve your metabolism and control you weight. Monitor your blood sugar levels. Follow your physician's advice, keep your doctor appointments and have your hemoglobin A1C testing done as your doctor prescribes.

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