Your A1C to Average Blood Sugar Conversion Chart

Understanding your A1C levels is crucial for managing blood sugar, but it can be confusing to interpret. Your healthcare provider may discuss your A1C levels in relation to your average blood sugar, but what does this mean, and how can you use this information to your advantage? In this guide, we will break down the A1C to average blood sugar conversion chart and provide you with the knowledge to take control of your metabolic health.

A1C: What is it?

A1C, or hemoglobin A1C, is a blood test that measures your average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. It's a key indicator of how well your diabetes management plan is working and can help your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your treatment. The test measures the percentage of glucose molecules attached to hemoglobin in your red blood cells, which gives an indication of your average blood sugar levels.

Average Blood Sugar: What is it?

Average blood sugar, also known as mean blood glucose, is the average level of glucose in your blood over a specific period. It's calculated by averaging your blood glucose readings over a set period, usually a day or a week. This is a more precise measure of your blood sugar levels than a single reading.

A1C to Average Blood Sugar Conversion Chart

To convert your A1C level to an average blood sugar level, you can use the following chart:

| A1C Level | Average Blood Sugar Level | | --- | --- | | 4-5.4% | 70-84 mg/dL | | 5.5-6.4% | 86-114 mg/dL | | 6.5-7.4% | 115-148 mg/dL | | 7.5-8.4% | 149-183 mg/dL | | 8.5-9.4% | 184-218 mg/dL | | 9.5-10.4% | 219-253 mg/dL |

Interpreting the Chart

Using the chart above, if your A1C level is 7.1%, your average blood sugar level would be approximately 123 mg/dL. If your A1C level is 8.2%, your average blood sugar level would be approximately 162 mg/dL.

What do these Numbers Mean?

A1C levels are usually reported as a percentage, ranging from 4-14%. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends the following A1C targets:

• For people with type 1 diabetes: <7.0%
• For people with type 2 diabetes: <7.0% if on insulin therapy, <8.0% if not on insulin therapy

Your average blood sugar level can also be used to assess your blood sugar control. For people with diabetes, the ADA recommends the following blood sugar targets:

• Before meals: 80-130 mg/dL
• After meals: <180 mg/dL

Taking Control of Your Metabolic Health

Understanding your A1C to average blood sugar conversion chart is just the first step in taking control of your metabolic health. To effectively manage your blood sugar, you need to monitor your levels regularly, make healthy lifestyle choices, and work with your healthcare provider to adjust your treatment plan as needed.

By using this chart and working with your healthcare provider, you can gain a deeper understanding of your blood sugar levels and make informed decisions to achieve and maintain good metabolic health.