Diabetes, hbA1c, fasting blood sugar + Event versus Process

Fasting blood sugar is an event. It’s a singular blood sugar (glucose) check after 8-12 hours of fasting. Although it is important for the diagnosis of diabetes, it is not an accurate measure for diabetes control.

HbA1c is a process. It’s a day-by-day accumulation of glucose within our red blood cells. Since our red blood cells life span is around 120 days, Hba1c gives us an average of our blood sugars within the past 3 months.

Diabetes complications are a process exaggerated by an event. Prolonged accumulation of LDL (Bad Cholesterol) within the arteries that leads to rupture in the inner lining and blockage within the arteries (heart attack or stroke). Prolonged exposure to high glucose within the arteries of the kidney leads to changes and damage until eventual failure (dialysis).

Success in the majority is a process rather than an event.

Check your hbA1c every 3 to 6 months to know your diabetes control.

Fasting blood sugar

Hemoglobin A1c (hbA1c)

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