• Published on: Jul 10, 2022
  • 2 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Understanding Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) Test  from Experts

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Endocrinologist 1

The hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) test is a blood test that provides information about your average blood sugar level over the past 3 months. The higher your HbA1c level, the more sugar has been sticking to your red blood cells, which indicates that you have diabetes or prediabetes.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that all adults aged 45 years and older be screened for diabetes every 3 years. The ADA also recommends that adults aged 20–45 years with one or more risk factors for type 2 diabetes be screened every 3 years. Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include being overweight or obese, having a family history of diabetes, being inactive, feeling stressed out all the time,

Endocrinologist 2

Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) is a blood test that provides information about your average blood sugar level for the past 3 months.

The HbA1c test is used to diagnose diabetes and prediabetes, to monitor blood sugar control in people with diabetes, and to screen for diabetes in people who do not have symptoms. The test can also be used to monitor the effects of treatment for diabetes.

Normal levels are between 4 and 5.6% of hemoglobin.

The HbA1c test is a blood test used to measure a person's average blood sugar level over the past 2 to 3 months. The higher the HbA1c level, the greater the risk of developing diabetes and other health problems.

The main use of the HbA1c test is in diagnosing diabetes, as it can show if blood sugar levels are too high over time. The test can also help gauge how well a person's diabetes treatment plan is working.

Endocrinologist 3

The hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) test is a blood test that measures the percentage of glycated hemoglobin in your blood.

Glycated hemoglobin is formed when glucose (sugar) sticks to the hemoglobin molecule in your red blood cells. The higher your blood sugar levels are, the more glycated hemoglobin will be formed.

The HbA1c test can be used to monitor your blood sugar control over time. A result of 6% or less indicates good control, while a result of 7% or more indicates poor control.

Endocrinologist 4

Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) is a blood test that provides information about your average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. It measures the percentage of glycated hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the body's tissues. Glycation is a chemical reaction that occurs when glucose (sugar) binds to hemoglobin.

The higher your HbA1c level, the higher your average blood sugar has been over the past few months. An HbA1c level of 6.5% or higher on two separate tests means you have diabetes. An HbA1c level of 5.7% -

The Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) Test is a blood test that measures the percentage of glycated hemoglobin in your blood. It's used to determine how well your diabetes is controlled over time.

If your HbA1c level is 7% or higher, it means that you have uncontrolled diabetes. If it's less than 7%, it means that you have controlled diabetes. The test can also be used to diagnose diabetes, because a diagnosis of diabetes is made when an HbA1c level of 6.5% or higher is found.

Endocrinologist 

Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) is a blood test that shows the average amount of sugar (glucose) in your blood over the past 2 to 3 months

The HbA1c test is used to diagnose type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, and to monitor diabetes treatment. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that people with diabetes have an HbA1c test at least twice a year.

Endocrinologist 6

The hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) test is a blood test used to screen for and diagnose diabetes and prediabetes. The HbA1c test measures the percentage of glycated hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to other parts of the body. Glucose, a type of sugar, attaches to hemoglobin to form glycated hemoglobin. The higher the level of glycated hemoglobin, the higher the level of glucose in the blood.

The HbA1C test can be used to:

Screen for diabetes and prediabetes

Diagnose diabetes

Monitor blood sugar control in people

Endocrinologist 

The HbA1c test is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. This test is used to diagnose type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, and to monitor blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

Higher than normal levels of hemoglobin A1c indicates that you have diabetes or prediabetes. Levels of 6.5% or higher indicate diabetes, while levels between 5.7% and 6.4% indicate prediabetes. Normal levels are below 5.6%.

Read Blog
Switch Soda with Detox Water: A Simple Step Toward Better Metabolic Health

Switch Soda with Detox Water: A Simple Step Toward Better Metabolic Health

Soda and sugary beverages have become a major contributor to India’s rising burden of metabolic diseases. According to NFHS-5 and ICMR data, high intake of sugary drinks significantly increases the risk of obesity, high blood sugar, fatty liver disease and heart problems. Replacing these drinks with detox water is one of the easiest and most sustainable lifestyle changes for preventive health.

Detox water is not a medical treatment-it is a healthy hydration alternative that supports the body’s natural processes. SecondMedic encourages simple, evidence-based swaps like this to help individuals improve daily habits without drastic diets.

 

Why Soda Is a Major Health Concern in India

1. Extremely high sugar content

A single can of soda contains:

  • 8-10 teaspoons of sugar

  • Over 140 empty calories
     

This spikes glucose levels and increases insulin resistance.

2. Artificial additives

Flavours, colours and preservatives strain the liver and may worsen inflammation.

3. Link to chronic diseases

ICMR and Lancet studies show soda consumption increases risk of:

  • Type 2 diabetes

  • Hypertension

  • Weight gain

  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
     

4. Poor hydration

Soda does not hydrate the body. Caffeine and sugar can actually increase dehydration.

 

Benefits of Switching to Detox Water

Detox water provides hydration and additional wellness support through natural ingredients.

• Improved metabolism

Ingredients like lemon, ginger and cinnamon support metabolic balance.

• Better digestion

Mint and ginger soothe the digestive system.

• Stable blood sugar

Sugar-free detox blends prevent rapid glucose spikes.

• Enhanced hydration

Water absorption improves when infused with electrolytes and antioxidants.

• Reduced cravings

Replacing soda breaks dependence on sugar.

• Skin health improvement

Hydration + antioxidants help reduce dullness and inflammation.

 

Popular Detox Water Ingredients and Their Benefits

Lemon

Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, helps improve digestion and immunity.

Mint

Reduces bloating and supports gut comfort.

Cucumber

Hydrates deeply and reduces water retention.

Cinnamon

Known for supporting stable blood sugar.

Ginger

Anti-inflammatory and excellent for digestion.

Apple slices

Add natural sweetness without added sugar.

Berries

High in antioxidants; good for heart health.

 

Easy Detox Water Recipes

1. Lemon + Ginger Detox

Supports metabolic health and digestion.

2. Cucumber + Mint Hydration Blend

Great for daily hydration and cooling.

3. Apple + Cinnamon Water

Helps stabilise glucose naturally.

4. Mixed Berry Infused Water

Boosts antioxidant levels for skin and heart health.

5. Turmeric + Lemon Detox

Mild anti-inflammatory properties.

 

How Detox Water Helps Reduce Soda Dependence

1. Replaces sweetness gradually

Natural fruit flavours reduce the urge for sugary beverages.

2. Keeps you full

Hydration decreases cravings, especially in the evening.

3. Offers variety

Different combinations keep the habit interesting.

4. Improves energy

Consistent hydration reduces fatigue and brain fog.

 

The Science Behind Hydration and Metabolic Health

According to WHO and NITI Aayog health reports:

  • Hydration improves nutrient transport

  • Helps maintain blood pressure

  • Aids liver detoxification

  • Supports kidney function
     

Soda disrupts these processes, while detox water supports them.

 

How SecondMedic Helps You Transition from Soda to Healthy Hydration

• AI Health Guide

Identifies sugar consumption patterns and suggests healthier beverage alternatives.

• Dietitian support

Provides personalised hydration plans for metabolic health.

• Preventive care tracking

Monitors progress for weight, energy and blood sugar.

• Health education

SecondMedic guides families, teenagers and adults on sustainable lifestyle swaps.

 

Tips to Make the Switch Successfully

1. Start gradually

Replace one soda per day with detox water.

2. Add natural flavour

Use citrus or herbs to enhance taste.

3. Keep it accessible

Carry a bottle to avoid impulse soda purchases.

4. Choose chilled detox water

Cold drinks create a similar refreshing experience.

5. Track your progress

Energy and digestion improve noticeably within 2-3 weeks.

 

Conclusion

Switching soda with detox water is a small step with big preventive health benefits. It reduces sugar intake, supports metabolic wellness, improves hydration and strengthens long-term health. With personalized recommendations from SecondMedic, this transition becomes easy, enjoyable and effective.

 

References

• ICMR - Sugar Consumption & Metabolic Health Report
• NFHS-5 - Obesity, Diet and Lifestyle Indicators
• NITI Aayog - Preventive Health & Hydration Behaviour Study
• WHO - Health Effects of Sugary Drinks
• Lancet - Soda Consumption & Disease Burden India
• Statista - Beverage Consumption Trends in India
• EY-FICCI - Lifestyle Behaviour & Preventive Health Report

See all

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