normal A1c and insulin resistance
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Let’s bust this myth wide open: “My A1c is normal, so I’m fine. Not insulin resistant."

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So your doctor said your A1c looks “normal.” Whew, right? All clear?

Not so fast, friend.

That number doesn’t always tell the whole story. In fact, many women are walking around with early-stage insulin resistance—even with A1c results that don’t raise any red flags.

And if it’s left unaddressed? It quietly damages your cells, your hormones, your energy, and your long-term health.

Let’s take a closer look.


What A1c actually tells you

Your A1c measures your average blood sugar over the last 2–3 months. It’s helpful, but it’s also… a little slow on the uptake.

By the time your A1c is in the “prediabetic” range (5.7–6.4%), there’s a good chance insulin resistance has already been quietly at work in your body for years.

And by the time it's labeled diabetic (6.5% or higher)? Your pancreas has probably been compensating with sky-high insulin for quite a while.

That’s why a “normal” A1c doesn’t always mean normal health.


The early signs of insulin resistance

Many women in their 30s, 40s, and 50s have insulin resistance with an A1c under 5.6%.

Here are some early warning signs to watch for:

  • Energy crashes after meals

  • Intense sugar or carb cravings

  • Belly weight that won’t budge

  • Mood swings or brain fog

  • PCOS, irregular cycles, or early perimenopause

  • Fatigue despite good sleep

  • Constant hunger (even after eating)

If you’ve got some of these symptoms—your body might be whispering what the labs aren’t yet yelling.


So what should you do?

First: don’t panic. Insulin resistance is common—but it’s also reversible.


Second: don’t wait. Early intervention is the easiest time to turn things around.


Start by making your body more insulin sensitive—which means:

  • Eating whole food, blood sugar-friendly meals

  • Moving daily (even light movement counts!)

  • Sleeping consistently

  • Addressing stress (this one matters more than you think!)

  • Using gentle, well-timed fasting rhythms (especially around your cycle)


The bottom line

Your A1c isn’t the only measure that matters. And you don’t have to wait for a scary diagnosis to start healing.

You can catch this early. You can reverse it. You can feel good again in your body.

And I’ll help you get there.


If this resonated with you and you're ready to take the next step toward healing your metabolism, come join us in the free Facebook group where I offer real support, real strategies, and real community:Join here

And if you’re on TikTok, I’m sharing more bite-sized truths and tips over there too!Follow me at @metaboliccoachmarybeth


You don’t have to do this alone—let’s walk it out together.

—Coach MB

 
 
 
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