Why HbA1C doesn't tell the whole story

Hi ,

I hope you are doing well.

When it comes to blood glucose (sugar) levels, most people track one lab number: Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C). It shows your average blood sugar over three months. But averages can be misleading.

Key points

1. A1C can look “normal” even if your blood glucose (sugar) swings up and down.
2. Highs and lows drive inflammation, oxidative stress, and cravings.
3. Deficiencies (such as iron or B12) and ethnicity (for example, South Asians) can make A1C less accurate.
4. “Time in range” (what % of time blood glucose remains in a tight range) is more important than a single average.

In this short video, I explain why looking beyond A1C gives a clearer picture of long-term health.

Why it matters

Stricter blood glucose control prevents death from all causes--heart disease, stroke, dementia and kidney disease.

HbA1C is easy to measure, but it isn’t the best way to understand your blood glucose levels. Aim for a tight time in the target range, not just “normal.”

My upcoming program, Tiny Habits for Better Blood Pressure, starts Sept 26.

Learn more about the program here

P.S. Even if your blood pressure is normal, you’re welcome to join. I’ll help you adapt the program to your own health goals.

Best regards,

Shabnam

Dr. Shabnam Das Kar, MD

Functional Medicine Doctor

Tiny Habits Coach

Email: [email protected]