A1c is a form of hemoglobin that is also called glycated or glycosylated hemoglobin. A1c levels are commonly monitored as a way of assessing diabetes control: The levels will rise when blood sugar is high. A1c is useful for measuring long-term diabetes control because these levels generally reflect average blood sugar levels over the course of several months. As a result, A1c levels can be reduced via the long-term lowering of blood sugar.
Step 1
Monitor your blood sugar. Because A1c levels are a measure of glucose levels over a period of time, careful monitoring of blood glucose (using home blood glucose testing kits) is essential.
Step 2
Eat a healthy diet. According to the Mayo Clinic, eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains is nutritious and also low in calories and fat. Also try to eat foods with a low glycemic index and limit your carbohydrate intake.
Step 3
Exercise. The Mayo Clinic recommends physical activity as a way of lowering your blood sugar levels. Regular physical exercise (such as 30 minutes of aerobic activity several days a week) can help keep blood sugar and, as a result, A1c levels low.
Step 4
Take diabetes medications. Many doctors will prescribe medications, such as metformin, to help treat your diabetes. These medications will allow for better control of blood sugar and A1c levels.
Step 5
Receive insulin injections. Because diabetes is caused by inadequate insulin production, get insulin injections (especially after a meal). Other options include an insulin pump, which is placed outside of the body and provides regular small injections of insulin.
Things You'll Need
- Metformin
- Insulin
