A1c Tests

This week I received the following question from http://foodpicker.org

My A1c test result is 6.4% and my fasting blood sugar level is 113.  Do these numbers sound like diabetes and if so what do I do now?

The values mentioned seem to show the borderline of diabetes. A typical range for an A1c level is <6.5%. The A1c test is indicating what your average blood glucose (blood sugar level) has been the previous 3 months. This allows physicians to know how well the patient has monitored and controlled their blood glucose.  6.4% is equal to an average glucose around 135mg/dL which is above normal. Typically we want someone who is not diagnosed with diabetes to be <110mg/dL and a patient that is diagnosed with diabetes should be between 70-130mg/dL. The value of 113 shows that it is slightly high of the normal range for non-diabetics.

Looking at the A1c and fasting blood sugar from the question above, I would suggest scheduling a doctors visit and have them evaluate your blood glucose levels. Being overweight, history of diabetes in the family, high triglycerides and high blood pressure are risk factors that could lead to having Type 2 Diabetes. Many times in the early pre-diabetes stages, losing weight and eating balanced meals can help reduce any further progression to diabetes.

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes then scheduling appointments with a Diabetes Educator and a Registered Dietitian is highly suggested. This will help you get a full understanding of how to monitor your blood glucose levels, what diabetes means, type of diet you should follow, diabetes medications and getting any questions or concerns answered. Many times people are advised by family, friends and neighbors about what diabetes is and what types of foods they need to avoid. Getting educated by a health professional credited for diabetes education and talking with a Registered Dietitian will allow you to get all the right information you need for a diabetic lifestyle.

A1c Equivalents to Blood Glucose - From American Diabetes Association Website