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HbA1c Blood Test

HbA1c is the gold standard for assessing diabetes risk and long-term metabolic health. Regular monitoring is essential for proactive prevention.

Doctor's Assessment Included

When is this value abnormal?

Decision limits per result, in mmol/mol
Result Value (mmol/mol)
Low < 20
Normal 20–42
Borderline 42–48
Elevated ≥ 48

Het NHG adviseert HbA1c niet te gebruiken voor het opsporen of vaststellen van diabetes: "Bepaal de HbA1c-waarde niet voor de opsporing en diagnostiek van diabetes." De Nederlandse diagnose loopt via de nuchtere glucose. Een HbA1c van 48 mmol/mol of hoger past bij diabetes en moet met een tweede meting worden bevestigd; een HbA1c onder 48 sluit diabetes niet uit.

Source: Nederlands Huisartsen Genootschap Reference population: Nederlandse volwassenen (SHO referentiewaarden, IFCC)

Source: SHO Reference population: Nederlandse volwassenen (SHO referentiewaarden, IFCC)

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): what this test measures

This test measures the percentage of haemoglobin in red blood cells that has glucose attached to it. Higher percentages indicate higher average blood sugar over the preceding months.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): why this value matters

HbA1c provides a long-term view of blood sugar control, unlike fasting glucose which reflects a single point in time. It is essential for diabetes diagnosis and management. Consult your healthcare provider.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): when is testing worthwhile?

Testing is recommended for routine diabetes screening, monitoring diabetes management, or evaluating risk of pre-diabetes. It does not require fasting, making it convenient for any time of day.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Very low HbA1c may indicate frequent hypoglycaemia episodes or certain blood conditions. It should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

High Levels

Elevated HbA1c may not cause immediate symptoms but indicates poor long-term blood sugar control. Over time, this may be associated with increased risk of cardiovascular, nerve, kidney, and eye complications.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): what to do about an abnormal value

Male

If Low

Low HbA1c is normal and indicates good blood sugar control.

If High

Elevated HbA1c indicates diabetes or poor blood sugar control. Consider lifestyle changes and treatment.

Female

If Low

Low HbA1c is normal and indicates good blood sugar control.

If High

Elevated HbA1c indicates diabetes or poor blood sugar control. Consider lifestyle changes and treatment.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): lifestyle and this value

Consistent carbohydrate management, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress are key to keeping HbA1c within a healthy range. Small, sustained changes are more effective than drastic diets.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast for an HbA1c test?
No, HbA1c does not require fasting. It measures average blood sugar over months, so a single meal will not significantly affect the result.
How often should I test HbA1c?
For diabetes monitoring, testing every 3-6 months is common. For screening, your healthcare provider will recommend an appropriate frequency.
What is a normal HbA1c range?
Reference ranges vary by guideline. Your healthcare provider can interpret your result and explain what it means for your individual health.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.

InsideTracker

InsideTracker

An InsideTracker blood test with 35 biomarkers: heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, recovery and iron status. Measured in the Netherlands.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone Total Testosterone Folate (Folic Acid) Vitamin B12 Calcium Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Potassium Progesterone Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Total Cholesterol Albumin AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Vitamin D (25-OH) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Creatine Kinase (CK) Transferrin Saturation Triglycerides Basic Blood Count
€399,-
Whoop

Whoop

A 43-biomarker comprehensive health panel inspired by WHOOP Advanced Labs — a deep look at metabolism, cardiovascular risk, hormones, liver, kidney and inflammation.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) Total Testosterone Bicarbonate Calcium Chloride Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Potassium Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Total Cholesterol Albumin HOMA-IR ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Bilirubin (Total) Total Protein Urea (BUN) Creatinine Vitamin D (25-OH) eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Transferrin Saturation Lipoprotein(a) Triglycerides Basic Blood Count
€499,-
Whoop

Whoop Heart Health

A 45-biomarker heart health panel inspired by the WHOOP Heart Health Panel — an advanced look at cholesterol, lipoproteins, inflammation and kidney function.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) Cystatin C Uric Acid
€629,-
Whoop

Whoop Performance Health

A 50-biomarker performance panel inspired by the WHOOP Performance Health Panel — recovery, blood production, thyroid, hormones, iron and nutrient status for people who train.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor) Creatine Kinase (CK) Reticulocytes Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) Free T4 (Thyroxine) Vitamin B12 Folate (Folic Acid)
€689,-
Whoop

Whoop Metabolic Health

A 51-biomarker metabolic panel inspired by the WHOOP Metabolic Health Panel — blood sugar regulation, insulin, thyroid, liver and the mineral cofactors behind your metabolism.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) Leptin Zinc Selenium Iodine Copper Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) Free T4 (Thyroxine) GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase)
€799,-
Whoop

Whoop Women's Health

A 53-biomarker women's health panel inspired by the WHOOP Women's Health Panel — fertility, cycle and thyroid hormones plus a complete metabolic and nutrient base.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) Progesterone Prolactin TPO Antibodies Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) Free T4 (Thyroxine) Leptin Vitamin B12 Folate (Folic Acid) Phosphorus
€709,-
Whoop

Whoop Men's Health

A 48-biomarker men's health panel inspired by the WHOOP Men's Health Panel — testosterone, PSA and prostate health plus a complete metabolic and hormone base.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Prolactin Leptin Uric Acid Zinc
€659,-

Medical reviewer

Medical standards

Dr. Naimi oversees the medical standards behind our content and assessments.

Medical policy
CIBG Ministerie van Volksgezondheid,
Welzijn en Sport
Official BIG registration BIG 49928676701 Opens in a new tab

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin)

€27,-