How to Lower Your A1C

What is A1C?

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

Why Lower Your A1C?

Lowering your A1C can help reduce the risk of serious health complications, such as:

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

Steps to Lower Your A1C

• Healthy Diet:
  • Focus on whole, unprocessed foods.
  • Limit sugar and refined carbohydrates.
  • Include plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
• 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 are overweight or obese.
  • Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
• Medication:
  • Take prescribed medications as directed by your doctor.
  • Discuss any side effects or concerns with your healthcare provider.
• Monitor Blood Sugar:
  • Check your blood sugar levels regularly.
  • Keep a log to track your progress and identify patterns.
• Stress Management:
  • Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
  • Ensure you get enough sleep each night.

Tracking Your Progress

Regularly monitoring your A1C levels and making necessary adjustments to your lifestyle and treatment plan can help you achieve and maintain a healthy A1C level.