Metabolic
HbA1c
Also known as: glycated haemoglobin, A1c
What it is
HbA1c measures the fraction of haemoglobin that has glucose attached. Because red blood cells live around three months, it reflects average blood glucose over that window rather than a single moment.
Why it matters
HbA1c is a cornerstone marker of glucose control and is used to identify and monitor prediabetes and diabetes. Even within the “normal” range, lower-but-not-too-low values are often viewed as reflecting better metabolic health.
What “optimal” looks like
There is a healthy range; both ends can matter. HbA1c can be skewed by conditions affecting red blood cells, so clinicians interpret it alongside glucose and your wider picture.
This is general information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Always discuss your results with a qualified clinician.
Related
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