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A1C Testing
A1C testing is recommended by the American Diabetes Association, or ADA, as a new diagnostic tool for diabetes. This test–also known as glycated hemoglobin, glycosylated hemoglobin, hemoglobin A1C or HbA1c–is traditionally used to monitor how blood glucose levels are being controlled in diabetics over time, up to three months. The A1C test is a simple blood test that measures the percentage of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen that is coated by sugar. The higher the percentage, the poorer the blood glucose control. According to the American Diabetes Association, pre-diabetes is confirmed at 5.7 to 6.4 percent A1C while diabetes is identified by an A1C of 6.5 percent or greater. Those without diabetes have A1C levels around 5 percent. The test is faster and easier–no fasting, drinking or waiting is required.
Monitoring
For those already diagnosed with diabetes and monitoring blood glucose levels on a glucometer, numbers and results may vary. Glucose levels depend on the type of diabetes and where a patient’s doctor would like the numbers to be at fasting, before eating, after eating and before bed. The American Diabetes Association defines glycemic control in nonpregnant adults with diabetes as 70 to 130 mg/dl before a meal and less than 180 mg/dl after a meal. A reading of less than 70 mg/dl indicates hypoglycemia and should be treated quickly.
Diet, stress, illness and activity are all factors that affect blood glucose levels. Doctors, dietitians and certified diabetes educators can educate and individualize plans for those diagnosed with pre-diabetes, diabetes type 1 or 2, or gestational diabetes.
Mandy Seay, RD, LD, CDE
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