Is an A1C Level of 5.8% Bad?

What Does 5.8% Mean?

An A1C level of 5.8% is considered prediabetes. It indicates that your average blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes.

Is 5.8% Bad?

A 5.8% A1C is not classified as diabetes but is a warning sign. It means you are at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other health complications, such as:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Kidney damage
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)

What Should You Do?

• Consult Your Doctor: They will assess your risk factors and recommend a plan to prevent diabetes.
• Lifestyle Changes:
  • Adopt a healthy diet (low in sugar and refined carbs).
  • Exercise regularly (aim for 150 minutes per week).
  • Lose weight if overweight or obese.
• Monitor Blood Sugar: Regularly check your levels to track progress.
• Preventive Measures: Your doctor may suggest medications like metformin if you are at high risk.

Can You Lower Your A1C?

Yes! With proper lifestyle changes and monitoring, many people can lower their A1C and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.