I am pre diabetic likely
Hello, I am new here. I am a 50 year old male. My A1C has been in the 5.6 to 5.7 for years until this last test it was 6.0. During these tests I've fast and had a range of 85 to 107 glucose.
I lost like 20 lbs since it was 5.7 and have been eating better some with some exercise. Yesterday I ate around 12:30 pm and 4 hours later I checked my blood sugar with my fathers meter and it was good, 91.
I ate at my parents around 4:30pm some meat and carbs and took the last bite closer to 5pm. I then rechecked like an hour and a half later just to see what it will be after a meal with some carbs and it was 120 which to me that is good.
Tomorrow I am going to see my doctor and she is likely going to want me to start Metformin per our last conversation because she said starting now is better to avoid complications in the future which I get but my blood sugar isn't bad.
Why is my A1C at 6.0 when my blood sugar was 120 within an hour after eating and should I get on Metformin?
an A1C and a single blood glucose check give you two different views of what's happening with your glucose levels. You can think of the A1C as an average read on what your glucose levels have been over the last three months. The check you did after eating is a read on where your glucose levels were in that moment. Since glucose levels vary throughout the day, it's unlikely that an A1C would perfectly match a single check. As for taking Metformin? That's something best discussed with your doctor. Be sure to ask whatever questions you need to so that you understand what Metformin does, why your doctor feels you should/shouldn't take it, what you can expect once you start taking it (if you do), etc.
Hi
. gave you great information and advice. I see your doctor's point about preventing complications. If you can keep those numbers low, you can avoid lots of health problems in the future. That said, 6.0 is still pretty low, about in the middle of the pre-diabetes range. If you are hestitant to take medication, have you considered asking for a referral to a dietician who specializes in diabetes first? It's possible that more changes in your diet, your exercise habits and your sleep habits-- even small ones -- might bring your A1C down more. Let us know what your doctor says and what you decide, if you don't mind. I'll be thinking of you. - Lori (Team Member) My doctor just saw me. She said to continue with what I am doing and get checked every 3 months and see the a1c trend.
Should I get a glucose meter to constantly check my levels daily to lower a1c since after weight loss, exercise and cutting back my a1c has gotten up some?Hi
. Some people do find a glucose monitor helpful. Insurance will not usually cover it though unless you are taking insulin. I am glad your doctor decided to give it some more time. Did you ask about a referal to a dietician or did your doctor feel that is unnecessary right now? Thanks for the update. - Warmly, Lori (Team Member)
I forgot to ask for a dietitian but I already know to cut carbs.
Why is someone pre diabetic when everyone's glucose goes up after eating carbs?Hi
. For people who are not diabetic or prediabetic, the pancreas produces enough insulin to process those extra carbs and the cells are not resistance to insulin. They might have high blood glucose levels immediately after eating something high in carbs, but those levels return to normal after an hour or two. That's why the A1C is so important. It gives doctors a better feel for how your body processes glucose over time. Cutting carbs is important, but I dietician might be able to help you balance carbs with fats and protiens so the impact is limited and figure out when to eat. It isn't necessary to see a dietician, but some people find the visits helpful. - Lori (Team Member)
