There is a wide range of opinions re: the best goals for A1c. Jenny Ruhl's book and website Blood Sugar 101 is an example of diabetics searching for prevention through tighter control. They have the "5% Club". This is a group of diabetics that maintain A1c levels less than 6%, " a level most doctors consider normal". They go on to talk about how this can be done safely- and how it increases safety long-term due to decreased arterial damage.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) standards are very different. 6.5% is considered an "aggressive goal", which should be done only for young people, not on meds other than metformin, focused on lifestyle. 7.5% is considered the standard and usual goal for "nonpregnant adults".

And finally, 8% is considered a better goal for older diabetics, requiring more meds, and having lower life expectancy.

There is actually scientific evidence for both sides of this debate. We'll cover that in other videos.