Is an A1C Level of 5.7% Bad?

What Does 5.7% Mean?

An A1C level of 5.7% falls into the prediabetes range. It indicates that your average blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes.

Is 5.7% Bad?

While 5.7% is not considered diabetes, it is a warning sign. Without intervention, it can progress to type 2 diabetes and increase the risk of:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Kidney damage

What Should You Do?

• Consult Your Doctor: They can provide guidance on managing your blood sugar levels.
• Lifestyle Changes:
  • Adopt a balanced diet (focus on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins).
  • Exercise regularly (aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week).
  • Lose weight if overweight or obese.
• Monitor Blood Sugar: Keep track of your levels to ensure they stay within a healthy range.

Can You Lower Your A1C?

Absolutely! With healthy lifestyle changes, many people can lower their A1C and prevent the progression to diabetes.