Weight gain on insulin

breezeonby · 01-13-2010, 03:33

I have gained a lot of weight since starting back on insulin. I just got my new A1C today and it is 5.7. This was great news. The only problem is the amount of weight that I have gained since restarting my insulin therapy. I have so many limitations that affect how and what I can eat (severe gastroparesis) and exercise (severe arthrisis and hypotension) I do not have many options. I can only take certain diabetes pills. Most have gastro side effects. I am on Actos and Glucotrol (both cause weight gain). If I cut back on the insulin or pills I will be at risk for higher blood sugar readings. I am on 94 units of Lantus at bedtime and use Novolog before meals. I count carbs. I use up to 70 units of Novolog each day. Since my TDD is high my carb coverage is not very good. Any suggestions or encouragement will be appreciated.

Richard157 · 01-13-2010, 16:01

Modern day insulins caused me to gain 57 pounds during the 1990's even though my diet and exercise had not changed. To lose that weight I had to reduce my carb intake to 130g and increase my exercise. I have now lost half of the weight I had gained. Some diabetics with weight problems eat as little as 50-80 carbs per day. I seem to need about 130 carbs per day to have the energy I need. If you reduce your carb intake then do it slowly so your body can adjust to gradual changes. I reduced my carb intake by 10 carbs each week and was trying 100g per day but I could not finish my exercise sessions, I had too little energy. 130g suits me best. It may have something to do with my age, I am 70 now.