When you have type 1 diabetes, the goal is to keep your A1C, or blood sugar levels, as close to normal as possible in order to delay or prevent complications. As most T1 diabetics know, the general goal is to keep your daytime blood sugar levels before meals between 80 and 130 mg/dl, and no higher than 180 mg/dl two hours after eating. However, what you may not now, is how to effectively lower that seemingly stubborn number.
To help you increase your time in-range, here are 3 power moves proven to decease your A1C.
Master the Pre-bolus
A pre-bolus is a dose of insulin taken before eating to help control blood sugar spikes after a meal. It’s typically taken 5-20 minutes before eating, but timing is everything, and it can take some practice to get it right. If your blood sugar spikes after a meal, you may need to pre-bolus earlier, but if your blood sugar drops after a meal, you may need to pre-bolus later. Your healthcare team or a T1D registered dietician can help you fine-tune your approach to pre-bolusing.
Stop Overcorrecting
Don’t play the “low-high” yo-yo game. Overcorrecting low blood sugar levels results in stubborn highs and a repeat cycle. The best way to avoid overcorrection is to avoid hypoglycemic episodes in the first place; and the best way to do that is to eat healthy meals. Consider creating a proper diet plan with a nutritionist that includes regularly timed meals, and keep a chart of blood glucose levels before and after meals to determine whether an appropriate amount of insulin is administered.
Pair Carbs with Protein & Fiber
Pairing carbs with protein and fiber slows down digestion and the absorption of sugars, preventing rapid blood sugar spikes. In fact, eating the protein and fiber in a meal first before eating carbs can significantly reduce the resulting glucose spike. Some examples of meals that pair carbs with protein and fiber include pasta with spinach, a poached egg on avocado toast, lox and cream cheese on a bagel, and a whole wheat tortilla with tuna.
Get Help Lowering Your A1C
Managing type one diabetes isn’t about rigid rules like ‘you must follow a low-carb diet’ forever. It’s about living a realistic life where you can enjoy your favorite foods. You deserve a lifestyle grounded in balance and flexibility, letting you savor the foods you love, while maintaining stable blood sugars.
For additional help managing your blood glucose levels, consider joining our 12-week 1:1 coaching program for T1D. You’ll learn how to lower your A1C, increase your time in-range, and savor your favorite foods guilt-free with guidance and support from T1D Coach Isobel Rowland, a Registered Dietitian who has been living with type one diabetes for more than 21 years. Send Isobel a message or text 757-645-5395 to schedule a free discovery call.
