what is the difference between glucose and a1c

Glucose and A1C are both related to blood sugar levels, but they measure different aspects:

• Glucose: This is the sugar found in your blood that comes from the food you eat. It provides energy to your cells. Blood glucose levels can fluctuate throughout the day based on meals, exercise, and other factors. A blood glucose test measures your blood sugar at a specific moment in time.

• A1C (Hemoglobin A1C): This test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It does this by looking at the percentage of hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells) that has glucose attached to it. Since red blood cells regenerate every 3 months, the A1C test provides a long-term view of blood sugar control.

Aspect Glucose A1C

What it measures Blood sugar at a specific moment Average blood sugar over 2-3 months
Test type Single blood test (snapshot) Blood test reflecting long-term trend Used for Daily monitoring of blood sugar Diagnosing diabetes or prediabetes, monitoring long-term control

In summary, glucose tests give you a snapshot of your blood sugar at a specific time, while A1C provides an overview of your blood sugar control over several months.