How long does it take to lower A1C levels. What factors influence A1C reduction. Which lifestyle changes can help lower A1C naturally. Why is maintaining a healthy A1C important for diabetes management. What role does diet play in lowering A1C. How does exercise impact A1C levels. What are the target A1C levels for different groups.

Understanding A1C: The Key to Managing Blood Sugar

A1C, also known as hemoglobin A1C or HbA1C, is a crucial measure for diagnosing and managing diabetes. This blood test provides valuable insights into your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. For individuals with diabetes or prediabetes, monitoring A1C levels is essential for effective disease management and prevention of complications.

What does your A1C percentage mean?

A1C results are expressed as a percentage, representing the amount of hemoglobin in your red blood cells that has bonded with sugar. Here’s a breakdown of A1C percentages and their implications:

• Below 5.7%: Considered normal for individuals without diabetes
• 5.7% – 6.4%: Indicates prediabetes
• 6.5% or higher: Suggests diabetes

For those diagnosed with diabetes, maintaining an A1C level below 7% is generally recommended. However, target A1C levels may vary depending on individual circumstances, so it’s crucial to work closely with your healthcare provider to establish personalized goals.

The Timeline for Lowering A1C Levels

Reducing A1C levels is not an overnight process. Since A1C reflects your average blood sugar over several months, it takes time for changes in your lifestyle and habits to be reflected in your A1C results. Typically, you can expect to see improvements in your A1C levels within 2-3 months of implementing consistent lifestyle changes.

Factors influencing A1C reduction time

Several factors can affect how quickly you can lower your A1C:

• Starting A1C level: Higher initial levels may take longer to reduce
• Consistency of lifestyle changes: Regular adherence to diet and exercise plans yields faster results
• Individual metabolism and health conditions
• Medication adherence (if prescribed)

It’s important to remember that sustainable, long-term changes are more beneficial than quick fixes. Focus on establishing healthy habits that you can maintain over time for lasting A1C improvements.

Diet Strategies for Lowering A1C Naturally

Your diet plays a crucial role in managing blood sugar levels and, consequently, your A1C. While there’s no single “magic” food that will dramatically lower your A1C, adopting a balanced, diabetes-friendly eating plan can significantly impact your blood sugar control.

Best foods for lowering A1C

Incorporate these nutrient-rich foods into your diet to help manage your blood sugar:

• Non-starchy vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, tomatoes, and bell peppers
• Whole grains: Quinoa, brown rice, and oats
• Lean proteins: Chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes
• Healthy fats: Avocado, nuts, and olive oil
• Low-glycemic fruits: Berries, apples, and citrus fruits

The role of carbohydrates in A1C management

Carbohydrates have the most significant impact on blood sugar levels. While it might seem logical to eliminate carbs entirely, this approach isn’t necessary or recommended. Instead, focus on choosing complex carbohydrates and practicing portion control.

Complex carbohydrates, found in whole grains, vegetables, and legumes, are digested more slowly, leading to a gradual rise in blood sugar. This helps prevent the sharp spikes and crashes associated with simple carbohydrates like refined sugars and white flour.

Carb counting for better blood sugar control

Learning to count carbohydrates can be an effective strategy for managing your blood sugar and lowering your A1C. This method involves tracking the number of carbohydrates you consume at each meal and snack, allowing you to make informed decisions about your food choices and portion sizes.

To get started with carb counting:

1. Learn to read food labels and identify carbohydrate content
2. Use measuring tools to ensure accurate portion sizes
3. Keep a food diary to track your carb intake and blood sugar responses
4. Work with a registered dietitian to determine your ideal carb intake per meal

The Power of Exercise in Reducing A1C Levels

Regular physical activity is a powerful tool for lowering A1C levels and improving overall diabetes management. Exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively, leading to better blood sugar control both during and after your workout.

How does exercise lower A1C?

Exercise impacts your A1C levels in several ways:

• Increases insulin sensitivity, allowing your cells to use glucose more efficiently
• Promotes weight loss, which can improve blood sugar control
• Reduces stress, which can indirectly affect blood sugar levels
• Builds muscle mass, which helps regulate blood sugar

A single exercise session can lower blood sugar for up to 24 hours or more. Consistent physical activity over time leads to sustained improvements in A1C levels.

Recommended exercise routines for lowering A1C

To effectively lower your A1C through exercise, aim for a combination of aerobic activities and strength training. The American Diabetes Association recommends:

• 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity
• 2-3 sessions of resistance training per week
• Breaking up periods of prolonged sitting with light activity every 30 minutes

Remember to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts. Always consult with your healthcare provider before beginning a new exercise program, especially if you have any diabetes-related complications.

Lifestyle Changes to Support A1C Reduction

While diet and exercise are cornerstones of A1C management, other lifestyle factors can also contribute to better blood sugar control. Implementing these changes alongside a healthy eating plan and regular physical activity can enhance your efforts to lower A1C levels.

Stress management techniques

Chronic stress can elevate blood sugar levels, making it harder to manage your A1C. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine:

• Meditation or mindfulness practices
• Deep breathing exercises
• Yoga or tai chi
• Regular relaxation time
• Engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy

Importance of quality sleep

Poor sleep can negatively impact blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night by:

• Establishing a consistent sleep schedule
• Creating a relaxing bedtime routine
• Avoiding screens before bed
• Ensuring your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool

Hydration and A1C levels

Proper hydration is often overlooked but can play a role in managing blood sugar levels. When you’re dehydrated, your blood becomes more concentrated, potentially leading to higher blood sugar readings. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and limit sugary beverages that can cause blood sugar spikes.

Monitoring Progress and Adjusting Your Approach

Lowering your A1C is an ongoing process that requires regular monitoring and adjustment. By tracking your progress and making informed decisions, you can optimize your efforts to achieve and maintain healthy A1C levels.

Frequency of A1C testing

How often should you have your A1C tested? The American Diabetes Association recommends:

• For people with well-controlled diabetes: At least twice a year
• For those struggling to meet target levels or who have recently changed treatment: Every three months
• For individuals with prediabetes: Annually, or more frequently if at high risk for developing diabetes

Your healthcare provider may recommend a different testing schedule based on your individual needs and circumstances.

Using home blood glucose monitoring

While A1C provides a long-term picture of your blood sugar control, daily blood glucose monitoring can offer valuable insights into how your body responds to different foods, activities, and stressors. Regular self-monitoring can help you:

• Identify patterns in your blood sugar levels
• Make informed decisions about meals and snacks
• Adjust medication doses (if applicable and under medical supervision)
• Recognize and address high or low blood sugar quickly

Work with your healthcare team to determine the best monitoring schedule for your needs and how to interpret and act on your results.

Adjusting your strategy based on results

As you work to lower your A1C, be prepared to make adjustments to your approach. If you’re not seeing the desired improvements in your A1C levels, consider:

1. Reviewing your food choices and portion sizes
2. Increasing the intensity or frequency of your exercise routine
3. Addressing any lifestyle factors that may be hindering your progress
4. Discussing medication options with your healthcare provider, if necessary

Remember that small, consistent changes can lead to significant improvements over time. Be patient with yourself and celebrate the progress you make along the way.

The Role of Medication in A1C Management

While lifestyle changes are the foundation of A1C management, some individuals may require medication to achieve their target levels. It’s important to understand that medication is not a replacement for healthy habits but rather a complement to them.

Types of medications for lowering A1C

Several classes of medications can help lower A1C levels in people with type 2 diabetes:

• Metformin: Often the first-line medication, it reduces glucose production in the liver
• Sulfonylureas: Stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin
• DPP-4 inhibitors: Help the body continue to make insulin and reduce glucose production
• GLP-1 receptor agonists: Slow digestion and help the pancreas produce insulin more effectively
• SGLT2 inhibitors: Help the kidneys remove excess glucose through urine
• Insulin: For those whose bodies don’t produce enough insulin naturally

The choice of medication depends on various factors, including your overall health, A1C level, and other medical conditions. Your healthcare provider will work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Combining medication with lifestyle changes

For optimal A1C management, it’s crucial to combine medication (if prescribed) with consistent lifestyle modifications. This integrated approach can:

• Enhance the effectiveness of your medication
• Potentially reduce the dosage or number of medications needed
• Improve overall health and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications

Always take medications as prescribed and communicate any concerns or side effects to your healthcare provider. Never adjust or stop your medication without medical supervision.

Long-Term Benefits of Lowering A1C

Achieving and maintaining a healthy A1C level offers numerous long-term benefits for individuals with diabetes or prediabetes. Understanding these advantages can provide motivation to stay committed to your A1C management plan.

Reduced risk of diabetes complications

Keeping your A1C within target range can significantly reduce your risk of developing serious diabetes-related complications, including:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Kidney disease (nephropathy)
• Eye problems (retinopathy)
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Foot problems and amputations

Even small improvements in A1C can have a substantial impact on your long-term health outcomes.

Improved overall health and well-being

Beyond reducing the risk of complications, maintaining a healthy A1C can contribute to:

• Increased energy levels
• Better mood and mental clarity
• Improved sleep quality
• Enhanced immune function
• Slower aging process

Many individuals report feeling better overall when their blood sugar is well-controlled, leading to a higher quality of life.

Potential for diabetes remission

For some individuals with type 2 diabetes, significant lifestyle changes and weight loss can lead to diabetes remission, where blood sugar levels return to normal without the need for medication. While not achievable for everyone, this possibility underscores the power of lifestyle modifications in managing A1C levels.

It’s important to note that even if remission is achieved, ongoing monitoring and maintenance of healthy habits are crucial to prevent the recurrence of high blood sugar levels.

Lowering your A1C is a journey that requires patience, persistence, and a commitment to long-term health. By implementing a combination of dietary changes, regular exercise, stress management, and appropriate medical care, you can effectively manage your blood sugar levels and reduce your risk of diabetes-related complications. Remember that every small step towards a healthier lifestyle contributes to better A1C control and overall well-being. Stay motivated, celebrate your progress, and don’t hesitate to seek support from your healthcare team and loved ones along the way.

The Scope Blog – How Long Does It Take to Lower A1C Levels?

Has your doctor told you that you have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes?

If so, your A1C level is a great tool to help track how well you’re managing your diabetes because it gives a picture of your blood sugar levels over the past two or three months. If you have diabetes, knowing your A1C level can help manage the condition.

If you don’t have diabetes, knowing your A1C level can keep diabetes at arm’s length. Regardless, if you have a high A1C level, you’re likely wondering how long it takes to lower it.

What do my A1C test results mean?

A1C test results are unique.

Unlike other measurements, A1C is given as a percentage. This is a percentage of your body’s red blood cells that contain sugar-coated hemoglobin (Hemoglobin is a protein in your red blood cells).

Also known as your estimated average glucose (eAG), a healthy A1C (or eAG) for people without diabetes is below 5.7%. Go over that threshold, and you’re considered prediabetic.

Push it to 6.5% or above, and your A1C level indicates diabetes.

Once you have diabetes, managing the disease is best done by maintaining an A1C level of less than 7%. However, every person is different.

Your target A1C may be different as well. Work with your provider to set and meet A1C goals for your good health.

Can exercise and diet reduce your A1C level?

Fortunately, there is a lot you can do to lower your A1C level.

Exercise is one of the best ways to lower blood sugar. A single session of exercise can lower blood sugar for 24 hours or more.

Get in the gym consistently, and your A1C level will drop as well.

Helpful as exercise is for your A1C, you can sabotage your efforts if you don’t eat right.

What are the best foods to lower A1C?

Sadly, there is no magic A1C-lowering food.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires ongoing disease management. To lower your A1C level, you need to eat foods that help you manage diabetes and maintain healthy blood sugar every day.

Good choices include:

• Carbohydrates — Go with limited servings of whole grains, fruits and starchy vegetables, such as squash and potatoes.
• Protein — Select eggs, soy, fish, chicken, lean cuts of beef and other healthy options.
• Vegetables — Choose plenty of non-starchy options, such as broccoli, green beans and tomatoes.

Can eating no carbs lower your A1C level?

Carbohydrates raise your blood sugar levels.

Avoiding carbs altogether would make your blood sugar levels lower and eventually lower your A1C levels.

However, your body needs carbohydrates, even if you have diabetes. Healthy carbs (such as fiber) provide long-lasting energy and help stabilize your blood sugar levels.

While you may want to lower your A1C levels overnight, that can’t happen. It took months for your A1C to get where it is. It will take months to lower.

Instead of looking for a quick fix, eat healthily and exercise regularly. In a few months, your healthy lifestyle will reward you with a lower A1C level.

Want to learn more about the benefits of counting carbs? Sign up for our next Carb Counting class.

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How to Lower A1C Naturally

Prediabetes and diabetes (high blood sugar levels) are linked to a number of serious health conditions, like cardiovascular disease. Hemoglobin A1c—also called glycosylated hemoglobin, A1c, or HbA1c—is a common blood test used to diagnose and manage prediabetes and diabetes. A1c is an indication of your average blood sugar levels over the past 3 months. 

Please continue reading to learn more about why your A1c level is so important and what you can do to lower your A1c naturally. 

How does the A1C test measure blood glucose levels?

Hemoglobin A1c is a simple and commonly performed blood test used to diagnose prediabetes, type 1 diabetes, and type 2 diabetes. In people who already know they have diabetes, A1c levels are a measure of glycemic control (blood sugar control) over the past few months.

Here’s how the A1c test works. When sugar enters your blood, it binds to hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen and is found in your red blood cells. Even people with normal blood sugar numbers have some sugar attached to their hemoglobin. However, people with higher blood sugars have more sugar attached to their hemoglobin. The A1c test measures the percentage of red blood cells that have sugar-coated hemoglobin. Therefore, it shows what your average blood sugar levels have been like over the past few months.

According to the American Diabetes Association, healthy people with normal blood glucose levels have A1c levels below 5.7%. In people with prediabetes (those at risk of developing diabetes), A1c levels are between 5.7% and 6.4%. A1c levels of 6.5% or higher indicate that a person has diabetes. 

How can I get my A1C down quickly?

It is not possible to lower your A1C levels overnight. While your blood sugar levels can fluctuate very quickly (within minutes), your A1C level takes time to change. As mentioned above, your A1c level is a reflection of your average blood sugars over the past three months. Therefore, it takes 3-6 months on average to lower your A1c levels. 

In general, people with high A1c levels (over 10%) usually see a drop within 2-3 months with a healthy eating plan and exercise routine, weight loss, and medical care, including diabetes medications. Those with an A1c level of around 7.5% can take a little longer to see improvement.

What foods reduce your A1C?

There are no specific foods that can lower your A1c. However, a combination of healthy eating patterns and physical activity can positively impact A1c levels. It is worth noting that if you have excess body weight, weight loss by itself will not bring your A1c number down. Instead, losing weight along with other strategies to control blood glucose levels will help lower A1c levels.

In general, strict diets are not advisable because they are difficult to stick to and may deprive you of important nutrients. Diets like the keto diet that limit carbohydrate intake are not recommended for people with diabetes. 

A more sensible approach is to incorporate more fiber into your diet. Fiber-rich foods help control blood sugar levels by slowing how much glucose enters the blood and body’s cells from the digestive tract and how quickly blood glucose rises. A diet rich in fiber also reduces your risk of heart disease. Moreover, fiber-rich foods and healthy carb intake help you feel full sooner, thus helping to reduce your caloric intake and lose weight. 

Examples of foods that have high fiber content include beans, legumes, whole fruits, non-starchy vegetables, nuts, flax seeds, and whole grains (whole grain bread, pasta, and cereal). Foods to avoid include saturated fats, trans fats, and sodium (salt-rich) foods. 

If you are not sure what foods are good for you, consulting a certified diabetes educator or registered dietitian/nutritionist might be worthwhile.

How can I lower my A1C without medication?

Here are some easy-to-implement non-pharmaceutical intervention options if you are wondering how to lower your A1c naturally.

Physical Activity

Even moderate physical activity, such as a 30-minute brisk walk every day, can lower your A1c level. Being active throughout the day and avoiding snacking will also help.

Balanced Meals

One of the ways to lower A1c naturally is to follow a healthy eating plan that includes all the major food groups – proteins, carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber. Controlling portion sizes is also effective. 

Intermittent Fasting

If you are wondering how to lower A1c naturally, one of the things to consider is intermittent fasting (IF). This involves avoiding snacking or eating at nighttime and limiting food intake to around 8 hours in a 24-hour period. If can help control your blood sugar levels overnight and lower your A1c. Remember, if you eat more food during the daytime eating window, If will not work.

Sleep Habits

Peer-reviewed studies have shown that the body’s reaction to sleep loss can resemble insulin resistance. In other words, insufficient or poor-quality sleep can be associated with poor blood sugar control. Therefore, you should practice good sleep hygiene, as this can positively impact your A1c level.

Weight Loss Surgery

Suppose diet and exercise haven’t worked or you have serious health problems because of your weight. In that case, your doctor may recommend gastric bypass or another weight-loss surgery, known collectively as bariatric surgery. This involves making changes to your digestive system to help you lose weight. Research shows that bariatric surgery can also lower your A1C, and in fact, it’s the only proven way to reverse type 2 diabetes.

FAQ

Does apple cider vinegar lower A1C?

Apple cider vinegar is often touted as a natural way to treat type 2 diabetes and other health conditions. This claim may have some merit to it. Trials have shown that apple cider vinegar can lower A1c levels. However, the scientific evidence is sparse and more research is needed to determine actual benefits, dosing, and safety considerations.

Can dietary supplements lower A1c?

There are some claims that taking dietary supplements like cinnamon can result in an improvement in glycemic control. However, it is not clear whether this translates to lower A1c levels. You should not rely on supplements to control high blood sugar levels. A more effective approach is to get professional guidance from a registered dietitian to fine-tune your diet to a healthy one and combine it with regular physical exercise.
 

References:

1. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/managing/managing-blood-sugar/a1c.html
2. https://www.diabetes.org/a1c#
3. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/intermittent-fasting-surprising-update-2018062914156

How to quickly downgrade A1C?

Fortunately, there are many things you can do to lower your A1C levels. Exercise is one of the best ways to lower your blood sugar . One workout can lower your blood sugar for 24 hours or more. Go to the gym regularly and your A1C levels will drop as well.

Similarly, can apple cider vinegar lower A1C levels? The review reported that apple cider vinegar caused a slight significant decrease in HbA1c results after 8–12 weeks. HbA1c levels reflect a person’s blood glucose levels over many weeks or months.

How can I lower my A1c naturally in a week? Making these healthy changes can help you improve day-to-day blood sugar management and lower your A1C levels:

1. Start an exercise plan you enjoy and do it regularly.
2. Eat a balanced diet with the correct portion sizes.
3. Keep a regular schedule to help you follow a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Accordingly, at what level of A1c does damage begin? A normal A1C level of less than 5.7%, a level of 5.7% to 6.4% indicates prediabetes, and a level of 6. 5% or more indicates diabetes. In the prediabetes range of 5.7% to 6.4%, the higher your A1C level, the higher your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Your result is A1C.

Also, what makes your A1c go up?

If a person has a consistently high blood glucose level over time, the A1c level rises because more of the red blood cells are covered in sugar. The test is representative of a 2–3 month average because once the red blood cell is covered in sugar, the bond becomes irreversible.

Contents

Does lemon juice lower blood sugar?

Lemon juice significantly reduced mean peak blood glucose by 30% (p < 0.01) and delayed it by more than 35 min (78 vs. 41 min with water, p < 0.0001).

How can I lower my blood sugar in the morning?

How to control high blood sugar in the morning?

1. Changing the timing or type of your diabetes medications.
2. Light breakfast.
3. Increasing the morning dose of diabetes medications.
4. If you are on insulin, switch to your insulin pump and program it to deliver more insulin in the morning.

Can you have high A1C and not be diabetic?

Is it possible to have a high A1C level and not be diabetic? According to one 2009 study, 3.8% of people without a history of diabetes have an elevated A1C level (greater than 6.0). This group is more likely to have other risk factors for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Can walking lower A1C levels?

When you do moderate exercise, such as walking, your heart starts to beat faster and your breathing gets harder. Your muscles use more glucose, the sugar in the bloodstream. Over time, this can lower your blood sugar levels. It also improves the way insulin works in your body.

How quickly can A1C levels drop in 3 months?

The good news is that if your A1C is on the high side, say 10% or higher, it will likely start to decline within two to three months (in other words, the higher it is, the faster it declines). On the other hand, if your A1C is 7.5%, it may take a little longer for your A1C to drop.

What is the highest A1C ever recorded?

However, they report that Michael Patrick Buonocor survived a blood glucose (GG) level of 2.656 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) upon admission to the emergency room in March 2008 in East Stroudsburg, PA.

Why do I have high glucose levels but normal A1C levels?

A1C tests measure your average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months. You may have high fasting blood sugar, but your total blood sugar may be normal, or vice versa. A normal fasting blood sugar level cannot rule out the possibility of type 2 diabetes.

Can A1C be cancelled?

Diabetes is most often diagnosed when someone has a hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c is a measure of blood sugar) greater than or equal to 6.5%. For diabetes to be reversed, a person must have an HbA1c level below the diabetic range, indicating that blood sugar levels have improved without the use of medications such as insulin.

Can stress increase A1C levels?

When your body is under stress, it prepares to either fight or flee from the stressor. To do this, your body needs energy in the form of glucose, so the hormone cortisol is released, which raises blood sugar levels. In turn, this also causes your A1C to go up.

Is cucumber water good for diabetics?

This natural health tonic, also known as cucumber water or cucumber detox water, can help you stay hydrated, lose weight, lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that people with type 2 diabetes can lower their blood sugar levels by eating cucumbers.

Green tea lowers blood sugar?

Epidemiological studies have shown that green tea consumption may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Intervention studies show that green tea can lower blood glucose levels as well as increase satiety.

Why do I have high fasting glucose but normal A1C?

A1C tests measure your average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months. You may have high fasting blood sugar, but your total blood sugar may be normal, or vice versa. A normal fasting blood sugar level cannot rule out the possibility of type 2 diabetes.

What is in Berberine?

Berberine is a chemical found in certain plants such as European barberry, goldenrod, goldenrod, Oregon grape, phellodendron, and wood turmeric. Berberine is a bitter-tasting, yellow-colored chemical. This can help increase the heart rate, which may benefit people with certain heart conditions.

Why does my blood sugar rise as soon as I wake up?

In the early hours of the morning, hormones including cortisol and growth hormone signal the liver to increase its production of glucose, which provides energy to help you wake up. This causes the beta cells in the pancreas to produce insulin to control blood glucose levels.

Can stress increase A1C levels?

Chronic stress, especially in relation to living with diabetes, was most strongly associated with A1c, especially among subgroups that experience disproportionate stress, such as minority groups or adolescents/young adults.

What foods cause high A1C levels?

In general, the foods that cause the greatest rise in blood sugar levels are foods that are high in carbohydrates and are quickly converted into energy, such as rice, bread, fruit, and sugar. This is followed by foods high in protein, such as meat, fish eggs, milk and dairy products, and fatty foods.

Can drinking water lower blood sugar levels?

Drink water and stay hydrated

Drinking water regularly can rehydrate the blood, lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes (20, 21).

How can I lower my HbA1C levels without medication?

Contents

1. Lifestyle to reduce hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C) 1) Lose weight. 2) Exercise. 3) Quit smoking. 4) Sleep more.
2. Dietary changes that may lower hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C) 1) Avoid sugar and processed carbohydrates. 2) Increase the amount of fruits, vegetables and fiber. 3) Mediterranean diet.
3. Supplements that may lower hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C)

What is your average blood sugar if your A1C is 12?

A higher percentage of A1C corresponds to a higher average blood sugar level. Results for diagnosis are interpreted as follows: Below 5.7% is normal. Between 5.7% and 6.4% are diagnosed with prediabetes.

A1C and self-monitoring.

• January 30, 2021

How can I reverse my prediabetes?

1. Exercise. Regular exercise, such as walking, can help prevent or reverse prediabetes and insulin resistance.
2. Loss of excess weight. A person with prediabetes and overweight can reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by losing about 5–7% of their body weight.
3. Quit smoking.

How to cope with the fear of complications associated with diabetes

Photo: pixabay com

Diabetes is a chronic disease that can lead to serious health complications, including kidney failure, nerve damage, eye damage, heart disease, and stroke. Here is how three patients described the impact of diabetes complications on their lives.

Long-term health complications are not inevitable for people with diabetes. However, it is important for patients to be aware of how the condition affects the entire body and how diabetes-related complications can affect their quality of life.

Diabetes increases the risk of complications such as kidney failure, nerve damage, vision problems, heart disease, and lower limb amputations. Managing diabetes is already difficult enough, and thinking about long-term complications can cause even more stress. We heard from three people with diabetes who spoke about their feelings about possible complications and how to deal with them.

The patient thinks about what her future might cost her

Ashley Donahue was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2022 with an A1C level of 11%. She was later diagnosed with latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), which is a slowly progressive form of diabetes that shares features with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

With the help of diet, exercise and metformin, Donahue was able to reduce A1C levels by up to 7%. While she currently has no diabetes-related complications, Donahue said she understood their impact even before she was diagnosed.

“My boyfriend was his father’s guardian for several years, ,” she said. “His father suffered from severe complications [of diabetes, such as] macular degeneration, neuropathy and loss of mobility, kidney dialysis, gangrene and abdominal problems, which unfortunately claimed his life.”

Donahue described her own diabetes diagnosis as a surprise, but she felt she had the support to do the best she could.

“Of course we were shocked when we found out I had diabetes, ,” Donahue said. “I was determined to change my diabetes, or at least manage it successfully.”

Even without her current complications, Donahue still expressed concern about what her long-term health with diabetes might look like when it comes to her future family plans.

“Before, I didn’t think much about motherhood, but after this diagnosis, I really saw what I want in life” , she said.
“I want to live long enough to be old and wrinkled, but healthy and prosperous. I want to be a mom that my kids are proud of because they know what I did to get here.”

Learning to manage the multiple complications of diabetes

Rachel Chalcraft was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when she was 4 years old. She described feeling like her doctor was using fear-based tactics to describe the complications of diabetes, such as vision loss and kidney damage. Although Chalcraft knew about them, she didn’t believe they would actually happen.

In March 2019, Chalcraft was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, an eye complication caused by damage to the blood vessels in the light-sensitive tissue of the retina. High glucose levels can destroy the blood vessels in the eyes over time, leading to poor vision and even blindness.

“When the resident came into the room after my first bleed and said, ‘You have stage 4 diabetic retinopathy,’ I just burst into tears,” said Chalcraft.

“I knew it was bad, but I really didn’t know much about it. I didn’t know what was going to happen, what I would have to go through and if it would be reversible ,” she said.
“There was a lot of guilt, shame, fear and anxiety. I was terrified and the unknown was very difficult to deal with” .

Her first year with retinopathy took a toll on her mental health. After being diagnosed, Chalcraft was officially declared blind and had to rely on others to help her with tasks she would normally do on her own.

“I couldn’t go to meetings. I couldn’t do basic tasks like grocery shopping or housework. I felt like there was nothing I could do. It was all very hard for me,” she said.

In addition to losing her eyesight, Chalcraft later discovered that she also had high blood pressure and mild kidney damage.

“Add to that the worry about the future and the shame and guilt that I did this to myself,” she said. “My mental health was complete garbage. It was truly the worst year of my life.”

Chalcraft said her personal approach is to take each day as it comes and remain vigilant for other potential complications. She works closely with her doctors to monitor her health and avoid any other diagnoses in the future.

Treating diabetes does not always mean life without complications

Some of the most common complications such as kidney failure, nerve damage and vision problems can be prevented if caught early. Other times, the health problems associated with diabetes occur no matter how well you manage the disease.

TiEira Averett has been living with type 1 diabetes for 14 years. She watched firsthand how her grandfather struggled with his diabetes complications, even though he managed his diabetes the best he could.

“Watching my loved ones go through this made me want to take better care of myself in the long run,” said Averett.