HbA1c
Glycated haemoglobin
- Group
- Glucose metabolism
- Sample
- Blood · no fasting needed
- unit
- %
Source: American Diabetes Association (ADA) diagnostic criteria
What does it measure?
Reflects average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months: the share of haemoglobin in red blood cells bound to glucose. It summarises months, not a single day.
Relationship to nutrition
HbA1c changes over time with the total carbohydrate load and its spread across meals, meal frequency, activity and weight change. After a plan changes, a new value usually needs at least three months. We read HbA1c together with meter readings; they tell different things.
Before the test
- No fasting needed; can be given at any time of day.
- Recent blood loss, anaemia or transfusion can affect the result; tell your doctor.
This page is general information. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, age, sex and pregnancy; the range on your report is the one that applies. Diagnosis and treatment are carried out by your doctor. No values are entered on this page and no data is sent to the server.