what does a1c show

The A1C test (also known as the hemoglobin A1C or HbA1c test) measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2 to 3 months. It does this by calculating the percentage of your red blood cells that have sugar-coated hemoglobin. Here’s what the results mean:

• Normal: Below 5.7%
• Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
• Diabetes: 6.5% or above

The A1C test is used to:

1. Diagnose prediabetes and diabetes.
2. Monitor how well your diabetes treatment plan is working.
3. Estimate your average blood sugar levels over time.

It’s important to note that the A1C test doesn’t replace daily blood sugar monitoring, as it doesn’t capture blood sugar spikes or lows.