How to Lower A1C

What is A1C?

The A1C test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It's an important indicator of how well you're managing diabetes.

Why Lower 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 A1C

• Healthy Diet:
  • Focus on whole, unprocessed foods.
  • Limit sugar and refined carbohydrates.
  • Include plenty of fiber-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
• Regular Exercise:
  • Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week.
  • Include strength training exercises twice a week.
• Weight Management:
  • Lose weight if you're overweight or obese.
  • Even a small amount of weight loss can improve blood sugar control.
• Medication:
  • Take prescribed medications as directed by your doctor.
  • Common medications include metformin, insulin, and other diabetes drugs.
• Monitor Blood Sugar:
  • Regularly check your blood sugar levels.
  • Keep a log to track your progress and identify patterns.
• Stress Management:
  • Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
  • Get adequate sleep each night.

Monitoring Progress

Regularly monitor your A1C levels to track your progress. Work closely with your healthcare provider to adjust your treatment plan as needed.