A1C levels pre DM should be measured by your physician or a medical laboratory if you are at risk for developing type II diabetes. A simple blood test can determine your A1C levels, pre diabetes. The A1C blood test is used to determine your average blood sugar levels over the past few months. This test allows your physician to gauge how well your body is maintaining your blood sugar levels over time.

 

When to Consider Blood Glucose Screenings

 

Blood glucose screenings should be an important part of annual blood testing work ups if you have any of the following risk factors.

  • Overweight, with a body mass index (BMI) over 25
  • Inactive lifestyle
  • Over age 45
  • Family history of type II diabetes
  • Suffered from gestational diabetes during pregnancy or gave birth to a child over 9 pounds
  • Currently suffer from high blood pressure or high cholesterol
  • Of African-American, Asian-American, Hispanic, American Indian, or Pacific Islander decent
  • History of polycystic ovary syndrome

Many factors can lead to increased A1C levels, pre diabetes. If you are over the age of 45 or have one or more of the risk factors listed above, you should discuss scheduling A1C levels pre DM screenings with your physician.

 

Steps to Maintaining a Healthy A1C Level

 

If you do have increased A1C levels, pre diabetes, do not fret. There are many ways to make simple changes in your life now to avoid developing type II diabetes in the future. Discuss an action plan with your physician to determine the best way for you to stay healthy.

Some basic rules of thumb for maintaining good health and keeping your A1C in check are:

  • A healthy diet, low in processed foods and sweets
  • Become or stay active, participate in a regular exercise program
  • Maintain a healthy body weight
  • If you suffer from high blood pressure or high cholesterol, talk to your doctor about getting those into normal ranges
  • Know your family history and your past medical history and discuss it with your physician
  • Get your annual physical and A1C blood test as recommended by your physician

 

A1C levels, pre DM, can be frightening if and when you find out you are at risk for developing type II diabetes. However, developing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will play a huge part in making sure you never get that dreaded diagnosis. Your health care team can help you determine an action plan to become healthy and stay healthy for years to come, if you find out you are at risk. Prevention is the key to maintaining health and living a long and active life. Look at A1C levels pre diabetes screenings as a great way to stay in the loop about your health and to prevent a problem in the future. Live well!