POZ Community Forums
Meds, Mind, Body & Benefits => Lipodystrophy & Metabolic Problems => Topic started by: Batyskaff on June 17, 2009, 10:01:33 am
-
Hello.
I am on Reyataz + Norvir + Truvada since 4 years (I was taking Epivir + Viread for 3 years before I switched to Truvada). I have high level of triglyceride, cholesterol and insulin. It was quite easy to decrease the level of lipids using some atorvastatine drug.
The question is: what to do when your insulin level is to high?! One can read about this high level but not how to treat it. Did you have similar problems? What to do? I am getting fat due to eating to much carbohydrates. It is extremely hard to avoid eating sweet things. I am trying to do my best but would like to know if there are some other methods for this insulin.
Thanks,
B.
-
Hey B,
Reyataz with a Norvir boost, which you are taking, is the most lipid friendly combo for cholesterol, which you said you are controlling with a statin drug.
The insulin problem is something that may require additional medication, such as Metformin (Glucophage), and will undoubtedly require you to stay clear of sweets.
I know that can be difficult, but it may be necessary.
The first thing I would do is to consult my doctor. I am sure he/she would have some ideas about how best to control the insulin resistance issues.
HUGS,
Mark
-
Thanks Mark!
I know that my combo is the most friendly in such situations. This is why switching to other is not a solution. I do talk about this insulin problem with my doctor since a while, but she does not have "out of the box" solutions. She said she'll consult other specialists - I decided to ask on this forum :)
Actually I started my non-sugar diet almost two weeks ago. It is not so difficult as I expected but I am not sure how long I can stick to it.
Thanks for advice in glucophage! There is a lot about it on our national forums - I'll read it carefully.
And I was so glad that my first combo was working great from the beginning! Undetectable VL for all the time. No serious side effects. And now - wham!
Thanks again,
B.
-
Hey B,
Here are three links to more information regarding insulin levels and people on HIV meds.
Hope this helps.
HUGS,
Mark
http://www.aidsmeds.com/articles/1667_12831.shtml
http://www.poz.com/articles/193_1253.shtml
http://www.aidsmeds.com/articles/aids_heart_stroke_1667_14476.shtml
-
I am on I am on Reyataz + Norvir + Truvada too and also have high triglycerides. My latest labs they were at 468. My doctor just prescribed Lovaza. Honestly I've had a difficult time controlling my diet over the past several months which has not helped.
-
Hello.
I am on Reyataz + Norvir + Truvada since 4 years (I was taking Epivir + Viread for 3 years before I switched to Truvada). I have high level of triglyceride, cholesterol and insulin. It was quite easy to decrease the level of lipids using some atorvastatine drug.
The question is: what to do when your insulin level is to high?! One can read about this high level but not how to treat it. Did you have similar problems? What to do? I am getting fat due to eating to much carbohydrates. It is extremely hard to avoid eating sweet things. I am trying to do my best but would like to know if there are some other methods for this insulin.
Thanks,
B.
First. You don't have to cut out sugar completely, but you must cut it waaaaaay down. And, artificial sweeteners are surprisingly satisfying. Try Splenda in the packettes and also there is a bulk version for baking.
Second. Ditch the heavy carb loading. There is a chasm of difference between simple carbs and complex carbs. Simple, as found in white flour, immediately turns to sugar when you consume it. Complex, on the other hand, takes much longer to convert to sugar (the fuel that drives our bodies) allowing your system to absorb it slowly as well. This isn't so hard to achieve. Whole grains, which means you can eat at Subway, and whole grain pastas. Those pastas are surprisingly palatable. Learn more about this stuff here: http://www.dlife.com/.
Third. If you're drinking alcohol, stop it. Alcohol also turns to simple sugar as soon as you consume it. Once your numbers are under control you can re-introduce a glass of red wine with dinner ... unless it is a problem for you, in which case get off it and stay off it.
Flourth. Have your doc prescribe a blood sugar monitor and use it every morning after you haven't eaten for 8 hours. What that does is allow you to monitor your blood sugar so, if it starts raising too much, you can take steps to head it off. Any pain they may cause is so minor as to be nearly unnoticeable. Also see if your health plan offers diabetic montoring and education. Most do. Ask your doctor to refer you.
What does this say? You are probably sliding toward diabetes, and out of control diabetes is not pretty. You could lose your sight and in later stages even your lower limbs. But, the most worrisome thing you mention is your high triglycerides. Coronary Heart Disease City. A diabetic clinic will teach you how to lower your tri numbers.
Three more things. Exercise, exercise, exercise. You don't have to overdo it, and you don't have to go to the gym. Walk. A good, brisk half hour walk "at least" three times a week. For you, though ... start out doing it every day. Things like house cleaning and gardening do figure in but it won't be enough. The intent is to use your body and internal organs, which helps them to remain functioning properly.
I know I preach on this a lot, but in my house hold ... been dere, done dat. Holler at me if you think I can help with anything.
Best,
Gib