Annette Bosworth, MDHow do you achieve lasting behavioral change to improve your health, especially when it comes to managing your A1C levels? As a doctor who’s worked with countless patients to reverse metabolic issues, I’ve seen firsthand how small, intentional adjustments can lead to big results. Let me share a story and some practical strategies to help you take control of your A1C through sustainable habits.
I recently had a 1-on-1 conversation with a patient who was struggling to improve his A1C numbers. He was honest about the patterns keeping him stuck, and it led to a breakthrough moment.
Me: “What pattern might you want to set up for your life to not eat when you get home at night?”
Him: “Parking.”
Me: “Yes. Let me explain, because this might help you, too!”
He explained that when he parks in the garage after work, he goes in the back door, which leads to the kitchen. Out of habit, he starts eating right when he gets home and then loses his focus on his health goals. This simple act of parking in the garage was setting off a chain reaction that derailed his efforts to manage his blood sugar.
Together, we strategized a few hacks to get him closer to his goal of improving his A1C numbers for the long term. Here’s what we came up with:
Change Your Parking Spot.
Instead of parking in the garage, he decided to park in the driveway and enter through the front door. This small shift avoids the kitchen entirely, breaking the automatic habit of snacking as soon as he walks in.
Replace the Habit with a Positive One.
To further support his goal, he can change into exercise clothes and go outside for a walk with his wife before doing anything else. This not only distracts him from eating but also adds light activity, which helps regulate blood sugar levels.
These adjustments might sound simple, but they’re powerful. By identifying a trigger (parking in the garage) and replacing it with a new routine (parking in the driveway and walking), he’s setting himself up for success. Over time, these small changes can lead to better A1C numbers and improved overall health.
Behavioral change isn’t about willpower alone—it’s about redesigning your environment and routines to support your goals. If you’re looking to improve your A1C, think about the patterns in your day that might be holding you back. What’s your “parking in the garage” moment? And how can you tweak it to create a healthier habit? Start small, stay consistent, and watch how these changes transform your health for the long haul.
Improving Your Health One Ketone At A Time,
Annette Bosworth, M.D.
Dr. Boz
