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Can't get below 5 readings

VinnyJames

Well-Known Member
Messages
624
Location
Liverpool
Type of diabetes
Treatment type
Diet only
I was diagnosed around 13 months ago and I have been under 6 on my meter for most of the time. I don't want to eat less carbs than I do (less than 40g per day).
So why can't I get below 5 readings on my meter??
I'm stuck.
 
because you are so low on carb so your body just keeps you at a stable level. Nothing to worry about. If you want to see lower and higher numbers you will need to consume more carbs but seriously do you really need to. Under 6 all the time is quite ok.

BTW I think this is why the medical profession get confused about people on vlchf diets becoming pre-diabetic. Of course they arent just that their body doesnt need to produce much insulin
 
I know it's a 1st world problem lol but also worry about my base level increasing over the years I guess...
 
Keeping your levels below 6 is amazing and something few of us can achieve. You don't need to do anything except be happy that you have superb BS control
 
I do tend to worry a little as I have what I believe to be peripheral neuropathy but I also do know I have tight bs control which I am very pleased with.
 
It is my firm belief that everyone has their own base level, whether non-diabetic or Type 2 diabetic with very tight control. When we have achieved tight control within the normal non-diabetic range at all times (pre and post prandial) we will have reached our own base level that will probably never be reduced consistently on average. For some people this level will be in the 4's, for others in the 5's. For a few people it may also be in the 3's. Those levels are normal for them. We are all different. Many of us will never see a 3, many will see 4's, and others will only see 5's. That's just how it is, and why should we worry as long as we are within the normal non-diabetic range?

If you are genuinely under 6 at all times, you are well within the normal non-diabetic range.
 
I have very weird unexplained sensations in my feet. Told the Dr and nurse and podiatrist but they seem relaxed. The Dr did mention peripheral neuropathy but didn't follow it up. If it is that it's early stage but I read that low bs levels could resolve it but it hasn't for me - so could be something else? I dunno...
 
I'm not under 6 at all times Bluetit but tend to be post 2 hours after a meal.
I'm no angel lol.
The exceptions are a splurge when not eating at home...
 
Below 5 would just be showing off. If your numbers are creeping up, maybe go back on the metformin. What kind of sensations are you getting in your feet? How would you describe it? I got peripheral neuropathy in my feet even though my A1c at diagnosis was barely into the diabetic range. Supposedly damage is being done whenever BG is above 7.8.
 
have you checked with your Dr...to see if you're a diabetic
have you checked that your protein is under 70g and maybe the metformin could be considered again. I think drugs are a part of management for most
 
Have you tried exercise? If you really want to see lower figures a bit of exercise is great for using up those sugars. A brisk walk for even half an hour will make a difference.
 
I did a flawed home made OGTT in Feb ( it was early days for me and I failed to do a baseline test) that came back non diabetic.
But after the problem with my feet I accepted the diagnosis. It's like pins and needles but with a tight feeling round the foot and on occasions I get a very light sensation in my fingers.

I never got round to doing another OGTT as the thought of all them carbs again was too unpleasant.
 
mat1uk said:
Have you tried exercise? If you really want to see lower figures a bit of exercise is great for using up those sugars. A brisk walk for even half an hour will make a difference.
Click to expand...


I go to the gym 3 times a week now.
 
Then as previously said you must have found your level. I can go as low as 3.7 after a 20 mile bike ride but never feel it's a problem but my general level after a 10 mile ride is mid 4's
 
I get the pins and needles and tight feeling like a firm grip with pliers around my big toe and the one next to it. During the summer I had real pain, particularly in the evenings and that was strange as I also felt completely numb. It also hurt when driving. I assumed this was part of the healing process. No pain now but the tingling has increased since going off the fags.

I haven't decided on whether to take my toes to the Dr. I have had pulses checked with ultrasound and everything in the vascular department seemed fine.

A tight grip on bg should do it, I think. I try to be back to baseline as soon as possible and certainly after 2 h.
 
@Totto

Not everything is necessarily diabetes related or can be cured by keeping a tight control on carbs or glucose levels. As far as I know your glucose control has always been excellent, better than most non diabetics even, so I would think that diabetic neuropathy is unlikely ( although of course not impossible:-( .

The prudent think to do would be to have your feet looked into. Why suffer the pain and possibly risk further damage by not seeking medical attention.

The doctors can't be wrong about everything, even if you do not see eye to eye with them regarding dietary recommendations.

Of course it is your body and your mind to make up, but to me it seems silly to suffer unnecessary pain/discomfort.

Pavlos
 
Thing is, Pavlos, I don't know for how many years I have had diabetes. And you don't need very high levels for neuropathy to develop.

I have had the foot check but my GP wasn't particularly interested in what I told him. Next week I am going with hubby on his appointment with a neurologist consultant so will mention my toes while there.

And I don't think it is very much they can do, is there? I can however keep my bg as normal as possible - none of my friends go above 6.5 when tested by the way, so that is was I consider normal - and keep on not smoking.
 
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