OmegaQuant (Sioux Falls, SD) announces the HbA1c test with a home sample collection kit.This test allows people to measure the amount of blood sugar (glucose) in the blood.When glucose builds up in the blood, it binds to a protein called hemoglobin.Therefore, testing hemoglobin A1c levels is a reliable way to determine the body’s ability to metabolize glucose.In contrast to the fasting blood sugar test, the HbA1c test captures someone’s blood sugar status over a three-month period.
The optimal range for HbA1c is 4.5-5.7%, so results between 5.7-6.2% indicate the development of prediabetes and higher than 6.2% indicate diabetes.Test results should be discussed with a healthcare provider.The test consists of a simple finger stick and a few drops of blood.
“The HbA1c test is similar to the Omega-3 index test in that it captures a person’s state over a period of time, in this case three months or so. This can provide a more accurate picture of a person’s dietary intake and May indicate that diet or lifestyle changes are needed if their blood sugar levels are not in the optimal range,” Kelly Patterson, MD, R&D, LDN, CSSD, OmegaQuant Clinical Nutrition Educator, said in a press release.”This test will really help people measure, modify and monitor their blood sugar status.”