DIABETES:  YOUR AIC SCORES AND HOW TO LOWER THEM

                      AVEON HEALTH Diabetes Experts   For those of us who “prick” our fingers daily, the results sometimes appear to be nothing more than a crap shoot.  Not only do they vary from day to day, they can even vary from morning to afternoon.  With that thought in mind, medical science has discovered that a more accurate measurement of our sugar levels to be our A1C numbers.  In simplest terms, the A1C gives a two to three month average of our sugar levels, which give a better idea as to how well we are managing our Diabetes.

One of the first issues we need to consider is how often we should have our A1C tested.  Most experts believe that twice a year is bare minimum.  A better frequency might be every three months, or four times a year.  This increased testing allow us to react should there be an increase in the A1C results.

Interpreting A1C results is not on a par with deciphering Hieroglyphics!  There is a range of scores that can be used to evaluate our average sugar levels, as indicated below: < 5.7                   Normal 5.7 – 6.4             Pre-Diabetic =/> 6.5               Diabetic As can be imagined, our goal is to lower any reading above 6.5 to a more acceptable level. Interesting enough, while the numbers indicated above represent the Diabetic Populace in “average” terms, your actual goal should be specific to you.  Factors like our age, how advanced our Diabetes is, and various other Health Conditions will enter factor into the equation as well!

Check Your Blood Sugar Levels as Your Doctor has Directed.              There are several ways that we can, in fact, strive towards the goal of lowering our A1C levels.  These include, but are not limited to:

• Eat a Balanced Died with Proper Portion Sizes.
• Follow the Diabetes Treatment Plan Your Healthcare Team Recommends.
• Start an Exercise Plan You Enjoy and Do It Regularly.
• Stick to a Regular Schedule so You Can More Easily Follow Your Healthy Diet and Lifestyle. 

One of the never-ending duties of a Diabetic is to keep track of the numbers that affect their well – being and strive diligently to keep them as low as possible.  A1C is but another one of those numbers that we need to be vigilant about.   If you, or someone you know, needs help in managing their Diabetes, please call AVEON HEALTH at 480-300-4663 to make an appointment with a member of our staff and allow them to escort you down the path to an improved quality of life for you and your loved ones!  One of the very special services we provide is offered by our on-staff Podiatrist.   This Blog was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:   https://www.everydayhealth.com/type-2-diabetes/treatment/ways-lower-your-a1c/