A1C monitors glucose levels over two to three months. Also known as hemoglobin A1c or glycated hemoglobin, A1C measures the amount of hemoglobin that has bound to glucose. Standard glucose testing can only give an idea of the glucose levels at the time of the testing. But since hemoglobin is always available, A1C gives a better overview of glucose control. A1C levels below 7 percent are generally considered good; however, laboratory normals may vary.
Monitoring
Monitoring glucose levels is the first step in lowering A1C levels. Test glucose levels before meals and insulin dosing. Since A1C does not measure current glucose levels in the body, only glucose monitoring can be used to determine insulin dosing and to monitor for dangerously low glucose levels. Chart glucose levels to get an idea of overall glucose control. Bring your chart to physician's appointments so adjustments to medications and diet may be done to lower A1C levels.
Diet & Exercise
Diet and exercise play an important role in overall glucose control, which helps lower A1C levels. Diet and exercise works by burning fat deposits and increasing muscle mass. Muscle mass burns glucose at faster levels than other forms of tissues. Additionally, excess fat deposits have been linked to increased insulin resistance.
Use diet and glucose monitoring to control glucose and carbohydrate intake thus avoiding sudden elevations in glucose levels, also known as sugar spikes. Sugar spikes allow more glucose to be taken up by hemoglobin, dramatically increasing A1C levels. Avoid foods high in sugars and carbohydrates such as candies and many desert foods.
Medication
Diabetes and high A1C levels are the result of glucose not being taken into the cells through insulin transport. Medications can assist this process in a variety of ways. Some oral medications work to increase the cells' ability to use insulin to transport glucose. Others work to increase the body's production of insulin. For those that do not make insulin or do not make enough of it, insulin injections may be prescribed.
If you are on medications, either oral or insulin injections, maintain your dosing schedule. Monitor the medications for effectiveness by checking your glucose levels often. Taking medications at the same time each day can allow for better glucose control and can minimize sugar spikes. Notify your physician if your glucose levels do not stay in your target range so medications can be adjusted.
False Readings
A1C levels can be falsely low. The most common cause of a false A1C level is low hemoglobin (anemia). Since there is less total hemoglobin, there is less glucose-bound hemoglobin. Other causes for false A1C levels include sickle cell anemia, heavy bleeding, blood transfusions and iron deficiencies.
Cautions
Low glucose levels are not shown on A1C testing and can be more dangerous than high levels. Always monitor your glucose levels and take immediate action for any level below 70 mg/dl.
Only your physician should prescribe treatments for elevated A1C levels.
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