I can’t get my blood sugars down

Posted by rita @ritabtripp, Mar 26 6:37am

My fasting glucose was 99 and my A1c was 5.6 so I asked my doctor to order a continuous glucose monitor so I could better manage my diet (even though I’m not technically pre diabetic yet). . I haven’t eaten any sugar/sweets for over 2 months; I’m vegan other than some fish but I found that eating a the large salads (greens, cabbage, peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, garbanzo beans and minimal dressing which has 1 gm carbs) was raising my blood sugar past 150 so I’ve cut back on the large amounts of healthy veggies and added more protein into my diet and added intermittent fasting but my fasting glucose doesn’t usually go much below 100. I’m getting very discouraged and am seeing an Endocrinologist but wonder if anyone has any recommendations. I’m 67 years old; I’m not overweight; I exercise 6 days a week. I feel like I’m doing everything I should be doing but nothing seems to help. I do have hypothyroidism but have been taking meds for 10 years. I would appreciate any suggestions. Thank you!

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Your blood sugar and A1c is normal.

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It’s normal but it is inching toward pre diabetes so I was hoping to make whatever changes necessary in my diet to avoid pre diabetes. My continuous glucose monitor shows that I rarely go below 100

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@ritabtripp
Have you discussed with your doctor if the thyroid medication could be increasing your blood sugar?
Jake

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I am seeing an Endocrinologist on Monday and I will ask about that. My TSH is normal on the meds I'm taking, but I appreciate that recommendation because I think its a good idea to ask her to check other thyroid numbers to make sure it is within range. Thanks for that advice!

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@ritabtripp

It’s normal but it is inching toward pre diabetes so I was hoping to make whatever changes necessary in my diet to avoid pre diabetes. My continuous glucose monitor shows that I rarely go below 100

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Hi Rita - Most people would be very happy with your numbers. After meal blood sugar of 150 is not excessive.

As we age, changes in body composition also affect how we process carbs, sugars and protein, so it is especially good that you have added protein to your menu.

Have you considered adding exercise to your daily routine - a mix of aerobic (walking, swimming, cardio classes) and light weight training to improve your muscle mass?
Sue

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Don’t forget, some fruits and vegetables can contain lots of carbs also. Depending on the amount of fiber that counterbalances that, it could push your glucose levels a bit higher. I would watch the amount of grains and legumes since those are carbs. Believe it or not, WWs has a guide that helps you figure out how many carbs vs. fiber you ingest. You can also download carb planners that will help you balance that. If you are hypothyroid, that will affect your metabolism, so you need to have your doctor check it every 3 months to make sure your dosage is on track. The endocrinologist will be the best person to help you with all of this. Ask for a nutritionist referral, so you can make sure you are eating healthy meals. Being Pescatarian will help add protein to your diet. Rice and beans are a good source of proteins, but can add carbs to your diet if not careful. Maybe start keeping a food diary to see what you are eating and what your triggers are. Good luck.

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Is this 1 hr or 2 hr post meal? Test 2 hour post. Also, I'd get a high five from my Endo for a 5.6. Perhaps a short walk an hour after eating?

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I appreciate all the great suggestions!!!!

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I have had similar experiences as you. My glucose has been around 100 and A1C around 5.1. I also have hypothyroidism as you for years now. I also had hyperparathyroism that impacted my bones and now osteoporosis. So I take Levothyroxine for the thyroid and get Prolia shots and take Calcitrol for the osteoporosis. But I also have had two liver transplants over the past 24 years and take Tacrolimus. So, I am not certain if I have any pre-onset Parkinson's at this time. My understanding is the test is a brain scan. I am going to ask my Neurologist at my next appointment in a month about this testing.

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Oh my goodness. You have a lot to deal with! I’m so sorry!

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