What the HbA1c measures
Your HbA1c gives an average of your blood glucose over roughly the past three months. Glucose in your blood attaches to the haemoglobin in your red blood cells, and because those cells live for about three months, the test reflects your longer term glucose, not just today.
That is why it is such a useful number. A single finger prick tells you your glucose at one moment. Your HbA1c tells the bigger story.
Why three months matters
One high reading after a big meal does not define your diabetes. A pattern over weeks does. The HbA1c smooths out the daily ups and downs and shows the trend, which is what really affects your long term health.
Think of your daily readings as the weather, and your HbA1c as the climate.
What is a healthy target
Targets are personal. For many people with diabetes a common goal sits around 7 percent, but the right target for you depends on your age, your other health conditions and your treatment. This is a conversation to have with Michelle or your GP, not a one size fits all rule.
How to move it in the right direction
Small, steady changes add up. The habits that support a healthier HbA1c are the same ones that help you feel better day to day.
- Regular movement, even a daily walk
- Steadier meals with an eye on carbohydrates
- Taking medication or insulin as prescribed
- Understanding your glucose patterns so you can act early
Key takeaways
- Your HbA1c is a three month average of your blood glucose
- It shows the trend, not a single moment
- Targets are personal, so discuss yours with your care team
- Small consistent habits move it in the right direction