What is HbA1c?

Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a biomarker that measures the average level of blood glucose over the past two to three months. This is done by assessing the percentage of haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells, that is glycated (coated with sugar) to form HbA1c. This glycation is proportional to the average blood glucose concentration. 

While daily glucose tests provide a snapshot, HbA1c gives a bigger picture of how well blood sugar has been controlled over a longer period. This marker is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes management.

How it’s related to your healthspan

Maintaining optimal HbA1c levels is vital for extending healthspan, as high HbA1c levels indicate poor long-term blood glucose control and are linked to numerous health risks. 

Elevated HbA1c levels suggest chronic hyperglycemia, a condition characteristic of diabetes. Chronic high HbA1c levels are associated with an increased risk of complications such as cardiovascular diseases, neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy, all of which can significantly impair quality of life and reduce lifespan. 

Additionally, elevated HbA1c can contribute to systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, accelerating ageing and the development of age-related diseases. 

Conversely, keeping HbA1c within the recommended range helps mitigate these risks, thus promoting overall health and longevity.

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How to optimise your HbA1c results

Prioritising a balanced diet that minimises refined sugars and emphasises fibre-rich foods such as whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables can help stabilise blood glucose levels. Incorporating foods with a low glycemic index (GI) can prevent significant spikes in blood sugar, thereby reducing HbA1c levels over time. 

Regular physical activity, including both aerobic exercises and resistance training, improves insulin sensitivity and aids in glucose regulation. 

Ensuring sufficient sleep, typically 7-9 hours per night for most adults, is crucial as poor sleep can negatively impact glucose metabolism. 

Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and deep-breathing exercises, can help lower stress hormones (like cortisol) that interfere with insulin function. 

For individuals who struggle to maintain optimal HbA1c levels despite lifestyle changes, medications or insulin therapy may be necessary under medical supervision. Regular monitoring of blood glucose and HbA1c levels, along with periodic consultations with healthcare professionals, can help tailor and adjust management plans to ensure effective long-term glucose control and overall health.

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How to analyse your HbA1c

Understanding your biomarkers can help detect potential health issues early and guide you in making informed health decisions. Personalised recommendations enhance your overall well-being.

Take the next step by booking your Mito Health Longevity Health Screening today.

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What your Longevity Health Screening includes ($499):

• Analysis of 67 biomarkers
• Health risk assessments
• Personalised health recommendations
• Secure online dashboard to track results

How to book your health screening:

• Step 1: Register online
• Step 2: Choose your blood draw location: Home or Trapeze Rec Club.
• Step 3: Receive results online in 7-10 working days. 

Book now

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Why choose Mito Health to analyse your biomarkers?

• Convenient home-based blood draws or at our Tanjong Pagar wellness studio: Trapeze Rec Club.
• Expert analysis by our Longevity Doctor Dr Ryan Ware, who personally vets all the results & diagnosis.
• Actionable insights. You can act on your results with our personalised recommendations to improve your health today.
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is your health screening claimable by insurance or company benefits?

• Yes, our health screening is recognised by insurance & corporate companies as a health screening panel. You will be issued an official invoice which can be used to file a claim.
  

What do I need to take note of before my blood test?

• You’ll be required to fast 8 hours before the blood draw. Plain water is allowed.
• No strenuous exercise 12 hours prior to the test.
  

Do I have to fast before the blood test?

• Yes, you’ll be required to fast 8 hours before your blood draw. Plain water is allowed. 

Do I have to give my urine & stool samples?

• Yes, you will be required to provide urine & stool samples. Samples can be collected the same day as your blood draw, as the containers will be sent to you in advance. If you’re not able to produce the samples on the same day, they can be picked up on a separate arranged day. 

How long does the health screening take?

• Just 15-20 minutes! We’ll collect your blood sample & key biometrics. Stool & urine samples can be collected on the same day or in a separate arrangement. 

How often should I do a health screening?

• Doctors recommend at least twice a year, so you can also measure before & after any health interventions. 
• Our health screening is also complementary to traditional GP & Hospital health screenings if you have already done your health screening for the year. Our test report offers more in-depth insights & tailored health recommendations. You can view examples of the insights on our demo dashboard here. 
• Our panel of biomarkers not only extends your lifespan with early illness detection, but they also provide helpful insights to how you can feel & move better. Learn more about our biomarkers here. 

Why is health screening important?

• Long-term health: Regular screenings can help you stay healthy throughout your life. By identifying and addressing potential problems early on, you can reduce your risk of developing more serious health problems down the road.
• Early treatment is better: Many health conditions are easier and more affordable to treat when caught early. Screenings can help identify these issues before they become more serious and require more extensive treatment.
• Peace of mind: Knowing your health status through screenings can be a big stress reliever. It allows you to focus on staying healthy and enjoying life.
• Think of it as an investment in your future health and well-being. It's a chance to take control and stay proactive about your health.
  
  

I have more questions, how do I contact you? 

You can email us at help@mitohealth.com & we'll revert as soon as possible!

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