Should You Trust HbA1c or Fasting Blood Sugar More?
Published on: March 17, 2026, 6:05 a.m. | Source: The Indian Express
Both HbA1c and fasting blood glucose (FBG) are key tests for understanding blood sugar, but they serve different purposes. FBG measures glucose levels after an overnight fast, offering a snapshot of current sugar regulation, while HbA1c reflects average blood sugar over the past two to three months, making it more reliable for long-term monitoring. According to Dr Pranav Ghody, endocrinologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, these tests are complementary: FBG is useful for early detection and routine screening, whereas HbA1c guides treatment adjustments and tracks consistent glucose control. Both have limitations—HbA1c can be affected by blood disorders, and FBG may miss post-meal spikes—so doctors often use both alongside post-meal glucose and clinical evaluation for a complete picture of metabolic health.
