Connect with others who understand.

Sign up Log in
Quick Links
Q&A Treatments A-Z Help Center Guidelines Crisis Accessibility
Resources
Diagnosis & Information Managing Your Condition Treating Diabetes All Resources
About DiabetesTeam
What is This Site Terms of Use Privacy policy
Powered By
Real members of DiabetesTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

How Can I Lower My Sugar? And My Cholesterol? Please Help? I Was Doing Okay Till Now?

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Ausin texas
June 8
•
View reactions
A DiabetesTeam Member

As we grow older and as the years tick off dealing with Diabetes it's almost natural that it will become more difficult to control. The disease is progressive

The trick is to try and find the formula that "works for you" that will slow that progression to a snails pace

If what you "were" doing worked then you have a couple of options

You can double down on what you were doing - get more restrictive in what you are eating or add/adjust medication to make up the difference

While what we put in our mouths is not the entire equation, simply eating less carbs means there is less blood sugar to deal with in the first place

Likewise, cholesterol is "mainly" driven by the saturated fats we eat, our weight, smoking and drinking alcohol and not exercising enough

We "can" eat less carbs but that is not always practical. I restrict to (about) 100 a day - I don't see that as some burden BUT when that is not enough "I personally" will chose the meds because eating salad a few times a day doesn't seem like living to me, so you have to make a personal decision for yourself

When it comes to cholesterol we can make excuses about our weight, why we don't exercise enough and we are just too busy sometimes to eat properly. So either we buckle down or we take the meds - I lost the weight, I exercise and that is "not enough" for me, so I take the meds

Any potential side effects of the meds are still "better" than having a heart attack or stroke or developing diabetic complications

So you need to really access yourself

Decide if there are things you could do better. Are you willing? Or do you need the help from meds

You have had diabetes long enough now and if you have been (up until now) managing, then you know what needs to be done. You just have to decide how you want to do it

June 8
A DiabetesTeam Member

To help lower your blood sugar and cholesterol, consider the following strategies:

### Lowering Blood Sugar
1. Dietary Changes:
- Low-Carbohydrate Diet: Some members have found success with a ketogenic diet, which is low in carbohydrates. One member reported eating 100 net carbs per day and saw significant improvements Show Full Answer

To help lower your blood sugar and cholesterol, consider the following strategies:

### Lowering Blood Sugar:
1. Dietary Changes:
- Low-Carbohydrate Diet: Some members have found success with a ketogenic diet, which is low in carbohydrates. One member reported eating 100 net carbs per day and saw significant improvements in their numbers.
- Healthy Breakfast: Avoid high-sugar cereals. Opt for low-sugar options like yogurt or eggs.
- Smaller Portions: Eating smaller, balanced meals can help manage blood sugar levels.

2. Exercise:
- Aim for at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week. Activities like walking, dancing, or even household chores can be beneficial.

3. Hydration:
- Drink plenty of water to help flush out your system and keep your kidneys healthy.

### Lowering Cholesterol:
1. Dietary Adjustments:
- High-Fiber Foods: Incorporate more high-fiber foods like fruits and vegetables. Aim for 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day.
- Healthy Fats: Choose healthy fats like those found in nuts, seeds, and fish.

2. Medication:
- Consult your doctor about medications if lifestyle changes are not enough. Some members have been able to avoid medications like statins by improving their diet and exercise routines.

### General Tips:
- Continuous Monitoring: Use tools like continuous glucose monitors to keep track of your blood sugar levels.
- Food Diary: Keep a food diary to track what you eat and identify any patterns that may affect your blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

If you continue to struggle, it may be helpful to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and potential adjustments to your treatment plan.

June 8

Related content

View All

Is A LCHF (Low Carb High Fat) Diet Good For Diabetics?

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Inverary, ON
February 4, 2023

I Just Got Diagnosed Wn The 28th Of October And I've Been Holding Back On Meals Because I'm Too Scared To Eat, Is Skipping Meals Bad For You

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
October 31

Is Anyone A Type 2 Diabetic And Following A Ketogenic Diet

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Ottawa, ON
September 21, 2017
Getting Started on DiabetesTeam (VIDEO)
Frequent Urination and Diabetes
Staying Active and Diabetes
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data Policy and Privacy policies.Your privacy is our priority Lock Icon
Already a Member? Log in