As a diabetic, you need to manage your blood glucose levels and keep them within a healthy range. You’ll see your physician on a regular basis. In most cases, your doctor will check your A1C levels. In this article, we outline what A1C level test are and what their purpose is. What’s more, we provide you with 5 proven methods to lower your A1C levels.
What Is an A1C Level Test?
With an A1C test, your doctor monitors your blood glucose levels over a two to three-month period. The value you get from the test denotes a percentage representing how high your blood glucose levels have been during that time. The lower the percentage, the better. A score below 5.7 falls within the normal range, whereas a score of between 5.7 and 6.4 indicates prediabetes. Any score above that means your suffering from diabetes. If that’s the case, you need to try to keep it below 7 to avoid developing complications.
Now to the 5 proven methods to lower your A1C levels.
#1 – Work Closely with Your Medical Team
Your medical team including your physician and dietician will help you with your diabetes management.
#2 – Stick to Your Diet Plan
Together, you’ll compile a suitable diet plan. Stick to it.
#3 – Exercise Regularly
Exercising ranks high among our list of 5 proven methods to lower your A1C levels. Start by walking for 20 minutes every day. Ideally, you should put in 150 minutes of exercise every week.
#4 – Monitor Your Blood Glucose Levels
If you keep a watchful eye on your blood sugar levels, you’re less likely to experience spikes and prolonged raised levels. This will help to lower your A1C levels.
#5 – Keep a Record of What You Eat
If you write down what you eat, you can relate it to your A1C levels. This will help you to compile your ideal diet.