How Do I Lower My A1C?

Understanding A1C

Your A1C level reflects your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. Lowering it is crucial for managing diabetes and reducing the risk of complications.

Steps to Lower Your A1C

• Adopt a Healthy Diet:
  • Focus on whole, unprocessed foods like vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
  • Limit sugar, refined carbs, and saturated fats.
  • Consider a low-carb or Mediterranean diet.
• Exercise Regularly:
  • Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week (e.g., walking, cycling).
  • Include strength training 2-3 times a week.
• Lose Weight if Needed: Even a small amount of weight loss can improve blood sugar control.
• Take Medications as Prescribed: Follow your doctor's recommendations for diabetes medications or insulin.
• Monitor Blood Sugar: Regularly check your levels to understand how food, exercise, and medications affect you.

Additional Tips

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help regulate blood sugar.
• Manage Stress: Stress can raise blood sugar levels, so practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
• Get Enough Sleep: Poor sleep can affect insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.

Track Your Progress

Work with your doctor to set realistic A1C goals and monitor your progress over time. Small, consistent changes can lead to significant improvements.