Question

Is a hemoglobin A1c level of 7.1 a sign of diabetes? How should it be treated? Thank you.

Answer

Diabetes can be managed as long as medication levels are kept within the normal range, but it’s crucial to maintain a regular lifestyle and diet. Here are some dietary control suggestions:

  1. Break the misconception that taking more hypoglycemic drugs allows for more eating.
  2. Eat smaller, more frequent meals to ensure both energy and nutrient supply while avoiding post-meal blood sugar spikes.
  3. Consume carbohydrate-rich foods according to regulations; neither too little nor too much, but evenly.
  4. Sweet and savory snacks both raise blood sugar levels.
  5. The amount of “diabetes food” should be equal to that of regular food.
  6. So-called “sugar-free foods” are actually those not added with sucrose, and they should not be eaten freely.
  7. Vegetables mainly composed of starch should be counted as part of the staple food quantity.
  8. Beans other than soybeans, such as red beans, mung beans, and green beans, should be counted as part of the staple food quantity.
  9. Eat side dishes in moderation.
  10. Do not use hard foods like peanuts, seeds, and walnuts to satisfy hunger.
  11. Increase intake of fiber-rich foods.
  12. Reduce salt intake.
  13. Reduce intake of cholesterol-rich foods.
  14. On the issue of fruit consumption, patients with good blood sugar control can eat low-sugar fruits such as apples and pears, but the quantity should not be excessive.
  15. Sweeteners do not convert into glucose and do not affect blood sugar levels, so they cannot…