I have been a Type II Diabetic for nearly 18 months now. I have been extremely lucky. My first HbA1c test result was 12.1and my first daily glucose reading caused my meter to errored out. I learned later that my meter errored out because my glucose reading was over 600 which my meter could not handle.

My last HbA1c reading was 5.8 and prior to that I have had readings of 5.5 for the last two tests. My daily glucose reading are around 110-115 in the morning and mid 80 in the early evening. These numbers are wonderful, but it took me some time to learn how to relate these numbers to renewing my health today.

Everyone with diabetes should know their HbA1c score . The HbA1c test measures your average blood glucose levels over the last three months.  This test will tell you how well you have been controlling your blood glucose levels. Your daily blood glucose reading by finger prick blood tests assists controlling your daily glucose levels as you discipline your diet to maintain a relative steady level of  blood glucose.

The HbA1c test score is given as a percentage of glucose in your blood, ranging from 6% to 12%. Most of the time the % sign is dropped for conversation. Here’s how that relates to average blood sugar levels:

Both USA and Canadian readings

HbA1C %

 Average Blood
Glucose
Mg/dl

 Mmol/l
5

 80

 4.44
6

 120

 6.66
7

 150

 8.33
8

 180

 10.00
9

 210

 11.66
10

 240

 13.33
11

 270

 15.00
12

 300

 16.66

A score of 5% to 6% is normal for people without diabetes. You should aim for an A1C score of less than 7%. If you have a score any higher than that you are at higher risk for complications of being diabetic. It’s best to have a HbA1c checked at least twice a year. I have a health check every 90 days with full blood work and to discover if any complications of being diabetic have developed.

Even a 1% drop in your HbA1c score has a big impact. One study on type 2 diabetes shows that men who lower their HbA1c score by 1% have a 35% lower risk for complications such as Erectile Dysfunction. One study directly linked high HbA1c scores to erectile dysfunction and low HbA1c scores to better sexual function.

If at all possible, you should aim to get your HbA1c score down into the range of 6% or less, where people without diabetes are. I have had HbA1c below 6% nearly a year, but I am and will be diabetic the rest of my life. I know of no cure for diabetes. However, my life is better. I live a somewhat disciplined life of eating better food, moderately and daily exercise. I have renewed my health today!

Another important factor is how you take your diabetes medication. Follow directions carefully and don’t skip doses. Skipping doses often results in worse blood sugar control and added complications from the diabetes.

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