[Tyna]

I am having the same problem moving from Lantus to Levemir. I think I have my morning shot worked out, now it's just to get the nighttime one right. I have also noticed a significant increase in the amount of basal insulin I am using. I'm happy to know that I'm not the only one who is struggling with this same problem. I am, however, going to try and stay on levemir if I can, because it comes in a penfil instead of having to use a syringe with lantus. The penfil is a lot more convenient for me.

[MarkMunday]

Originally Posted by Irish_Fiona

Thanks Mark!! Can I just ask, what do you eat if you're low?

Fiona,

The best way to treat a low is with sugar or glucose tablets. They act quickly. And you can measure the amount of carbs you are ingesting. Sugar is the easiest because it is generally available. I normally put some in a glass, add a bit of water, swirl it around and gulp it down.

Not the most enjoyable activity. But, fortunately, I don't have to correct lows very often. As you know, a low-carb diet means that you don't have to inject as much insulin and blood sugar levels are a lot less volatile.

I know that a teaspoon of sugar contains about 5 grams of carbs. And I have as many spoons as I think I need, based on the meter reading, to get my blood sugar back into the target range. With some practice, you get good at judging how much is required.

Drinks like orange juice and Coca Cola also work fast. But you don't know how many carbs you are getting. And getting the quantity right is difficult. Anything slower acting, like fruit or bread, works too slowly. Getting the quantity right is a guessing game. And too often trying to correct a low starts a roller-coster ride.

Cheers,

Mark