Recent HA1C and Questions

[shel]

Since so many others here post their test results I thought I would as well.

My last HA1C was 4.8, down a little from the previous test. The last three test numbers have been 4.6, 5.2, and 4.8. I'm pretty satisfied with those numbers, although, more important, I feel good.

I take Metformin and Glipizide, choosing which to take based on morning BS results and what I plan to eat or have eaten during the day. Sometimes I skip meds completely for a few days, and sometimes, although rarely, I'll take a Glip and a Met tablet. I've noticed that most folks here who post their med information, say that they take a regular dose of their med daily, whatever it may be. Is there an advantage to doing that over what I do, which is adjusting the med to my daily situation?

My morning average for the past 30 days has been around 85. It seems that I'm one of the lucky ones: I have a great doctor, a good nutritionist, and maybe a less-than-severe case if the Big D. Can one have a mild case of diabetes?

Thanks for any and all comments. Kind regards,

[fgummett]

Excellent numbers Shel :star: I think you'll have more than a few jealous here :D

So far as I understand, Metformin is not a fast acting drug - it builds up in your system over a few weeks and needs to maintain a fairly constant blood level regardless of your BG level at that moment. To that end it makes little sense to skip a dose... BUT if you keep going low as a result of taking your meds regularly, then the dosage needs to be reconsidered.

[davef]

Shel,

Those numbers are amazing, are you sure you have diabetes ;)

Really well done. As far as Met is concerned, as I understand it you need to take it regularly as a single dose now and then is not really going to help since it needs to "build" up in your system. That said, who could agrue with your numbers ?!? Whatever you are doing seems to be working for you.

Well done,

[princesslinda]

Great #'s!! You should be proud.

I would encourage you to take your metformin routinely. It takes a few weeks to build in your system, so skipping a dose or two wouldn't affect you that day, rather a few days later.

Metformin allows your body to more efficiently use the insulin you are producing, helping with insulin resistance.

Glipizide, on the other hand, stimulates production of more insulin, and could result in your having "low" episodes.

Your diabetes may have been caught quite early. It is a progressive disease, and from my understanding is easier to control the sooner it is diagnosed. Sounds like you are doing well. It may be that you could manage on metformin alone with your good #s. Not taking the Glipizide might give your pancreas a much needed break from all that insulin production. You should always check with your doctor before making any changes though.

[shel]

Thanks for all the advice. I'm trying to get off medication, so that's, at least in part, why I don't take Met regularly. By not taking it for a while I can see how my diet/exercise plan is working by itself. Is this a poor idea?

As for the Glip, generally the only time I take it - with or without Met - is when I'm planning to have a big dinner and don't want to forego the pasta or the potatoes, or if for some reason I have a big spike, which is very rare.

My doc knows what I'm doing, and she's not voiced any objections. Hmmm - here's a thought: maybe the Met remains in the system a while, and skipping a dose now and again really only effectively reduces the amount in my system, which would be akin to takin a reduced dose every day. Does that reasoning make sense?

[shel]

[...] Glipizide, on the other hand, stimulates production of more insulin, and could result in your having "low" episodes.

Ahh ... youir comment answers a question I had about how Glip works. Thanks!

FWIW, and not to be contrary, I don't mind some low numbers every now and then. Exercising tight control almost guarantees that I'll dip below 70 every now and then.

[Orangehavok]

Shel, it's possible to minimize the amount of meds you are taking if your diabetes is under control. Many people slow and even stop their diabetes medications just because they have learned to control their diabetes through making lifestyle changes to minimize habits that once promoted the diabetes. Of course, if the diabetes can be alleviated go for it. Why rely on those medications when you don't need them? The going theory is that many people develop diabetes through poor management and lifestyle choices. If your diabetes is affected strongly by lifestyle, can you cure the diabetes??? We'll see, good luck with that. :T

[Caravaggio]

I am feeling envious here! Seriously, those are numbers, and I'm happy for you.

[cherokee_psh]

By not taking it for a while I can see how my diet/exercise plan is working by itself. Is this a poor idea?

I would suggest dicussing it with your doctors first. Many previously on medication have went off meds after getting their diet and exercise plans in place and of course lowering the A1C.

Great numbers!

[Scrabblechick]

Great numbers! Whatever you're doing seems to be working, for sure! I'm a little envious myself, but very happy for you!

[madlava]

It's been over a month since the original post (I just read this post for the first time). Just wondering how your diet/exercise is going, whether you came off of Metformin? I've been trying to do what you're doing. Controlling my T2 with diet & exercise alone. I've been off of Metformin for about three weeks now, too early to tell if it's working or not.