Can dehydration lower HbA1c levels?

Dehydration doesn’t directly lower HbA1c levels, but it can affect blood glucose readings. Severe dehydration can lead to temporary increases in blood sugar, which may impact daily glucose readings. However, because HbA1c reflects average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, short-term hydration status doesn’t significantly influence the result. Staying well-hydrated is important for overall health and can make blood sample collection easier. If you’re concerned about dehydration, drink plenty of water before your blood draw and inform your healthcare provider of any symptoms of dehydration.