HbA1c, or haemoglobin A1C, is a simple blood test that takes the average blood sugar levels over three months. This test is used to determine if you have diabetes or prediabetes. Doctors also use this test to manage your diabetes if you have already been diagnosed. Other than these common uses of the test, there are additional surprising insights the HbA1c test provides about your health, which this post will discuss. We will also let you know who needs this test and the normal HbA1c test range.
Who Needs This Test?
The HbA1c test is necessary for you if you:
- Are under 45 years old and diagnosed with prediabetes
- Are overweight
- Have a family history of this condition
- Have a heart disease or had a stroke
- Have had gestational diabetes
- Have PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome)
You also need this test, if you experience the following diabetes symptoms:
- Excessive thirst
- Losing weight
- Increased urination
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue
- More infections than usual
- Dry skin
Surprising Insights HbA1c Can Provide About Your Health
We all know that the HbA1c test is used to monitor blood sugar levels when you have been diagnosed with diabetes. But, this test can also offer insights into various aspects of your health, which include:
- Cardiovascular Health: The test helps predict the risk of heart disease. Even individuals who don’t have diabetes have shown a strong link between high HbA1c levels and an increased risk of heart-related conditions, such as attacks or strokes.
- Brain Function: High HbA1c levels can affect your brain function, increasing your risk of cognitive decline and even dementia. This happens when high sugar levels damage blood vessels in the brain that carry oxygenated blood. When the brain receives less blood, it cannot function and cells can die.
- Kidney Health: Our kidneys are made up of tiny filters called nephrons. High sugar levels in your blood for a long period can cause damage to blood vessels in the kidney and nephrons, resulting in kidney dysfunction.
- Liver Health: Unchecked levels of high blood sugar can damage your liver. You may develop non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Fat builds up in your liver in this condition, even if you drink no alcohol. Most people living with type 2 diabetes may develop non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
- Sleep Quality: If you have a poor sleep cycle and sleep less than 7 hours a day, you may be at risk for insulin resistance.
- Stress: If your HbA1c is high for no apparent reason, then it may be due to stress levels. Chronic stress can elevate blood sugar levels. You should practice yoga and meditation to control your stress and sugar levels.
Preparation for the Test
HbA1c test does not need any preparation. You don’t have to fast or avoid drinks. Also, you can take the test any time of the day.
How Is HbA1c Test Done?
A phlebotomist will use a sterile needle to draw the blood from your vein. The blood sample is then put into a tube and sent to a lab for analysis. This entire procedure is quick and takes less than 5 minutes.
HbA1c Test Range: What’s Normal, High, and Low?
The normal HbA1c test range is below 5.7%. However, your doctor should tell you what is normal. The range of normality depends on age, health and other factors. People with type 2 diabetes should aim for 6.5% or lower.
The commonly used range for diabetes and prediabetes screening are:
- Prediabetes: Between 5.7% and 6.4%
- Diabetes: 6.5% or higher
In conclusion, the HbA1c test can provide various insights into your health status beyond diagnosing diabetes and prediabetes. It can be an early marker for cardiovascular health, stress, kidney and liver health, and brain function. It is essential to manage your sugar levels to have a healthy life. For that, you should exercise for at least 30 minutes every day and eat a diet that has healthy fats, fibre, protein and carbohydrates.
