How to Decrease Your A1C

What is A1C?

The A1C test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It is a crucial indicator of diabetes management.

Why Lower Your A1C?

Lowering your A1C can help reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications, such as:

• Heart disease
• Kidney damage
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Vision problems

Steps to Lower Your A1C

• Adopt a Healthy Diet:
  • Focus on whole, unprocessed foods.
  • Limit sugar and refined carbohydrates.
  • Incorporate fiber-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
• Exercise Regularly:
  • Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
  • Include both aerobic (e.g., walking, swimming) and strength training exercises.
• Lose Weight if Necessary:
  • Even a modest weight loss can improve blood sugar control.
• Take Medications as Prescribed:
  • Follow your doctor’s instructions for diabetes medications or insulin.
• Monitor Blood Sugar Levels:
  • Regularly check your blood sugar to track progress and make adjustments.
• Manage Stress:
  • Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
• Get Enough Sleep:
  • Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.

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.