High A1C on Carnivore?

[YES]

Looking for explanations and non-drug options.  My recent lab showed 8.3 for A1c w/200 blood sugar. (usually a1c is 5.2).  Dr gave me two choices; lifestyle changes (to Keto) or diabetic drugs.   I've been keto/carnivore for years especially the last 5 yrs.  I average 25 g of carbs a day, often 0g, and usually do OMD.   My body is fat adapted.  The numbers suggest that my liver is making too much glucose and not using it leaving it in the blood.  Glucose sparing I'm thinking.  Also; a few studies indicate that blood cells live longer on carnivore/keto diet thus holding on to more glucose raising a1c.  But 3 points higher is a lot and studies are few on this topic.   My last thought is something from a tic bite like Bartonella infection as we get many in our woods and usually after a tic bite I get cravings for carbs.  Some reports say bacteria from tic bites can cause insulin resistance.  These three explanations my doctor knows nothing about as well as anything carnivore/keto.  I am interested in possible explanations and options to lower the a1c.  Thanks

[Geezy]

Welcome to Carnivore Talk Yes. I’m glad you chose to join us. 
Im not well versed on this subject other than what if read but it does seem strange to me that your A1c would be going up after all this time. 
I know some things that have been reported can cause a rise is, 

1. Blood sugar control: Consistently high blood sugar levels increase your A1C levels, while consistently low levels may suggest hypoglycemia. Of course that doesn’t sound like your problem because you have been low carb for a long time but I would definitely go zero carb if there was any question about it. I would also look at how much protein I was eating in regards to my fat ratio  because too much protein can supposedly raise glucose levels but there are differences of opinions on that.

2. Diet and exercise: A pure carnivore and regular physical activity can play a significant role in managing your A1C levels. Proper nutrition and exercise help regulate blood sugar levels, leading to better A1C control.

3. Medications and or insulin: The type and dosage of medications or insulin you take can impact your A1C levels. Working closely with your healthcare team to find the right medication regimen is essential for managing A1C effectively.

4. Stress and illness: Stress and certain illnesses can cause temporary spikes in blood sugar levels, leading to higher A1C readings. It’s important to take care of your emotional and physical well-being to maintain stable A1C levels. I hope you get this figured out soon. 

[YES]

Thanks for your response.  After a deeper dive into the research it appears that bacterial infection from a tick bite can cause insulin resistance and higher blood glucose, high blood pressure, irregular heart beats, and more.  Looks like the effects usually don't last longer than a few months.  I'll stick to IF and low/no-carb and see how the labs are in a few months.  Maybe invest in a CGM.

[Scott F.]

I test every few weeks at my Mom's. I have always been low. In the mornings I am usually in the high 80's to low 90's. Forever the Mountain Dew and the Little Debbie cake fixed the early morning jitters. 

Until I started carnivore I had never had a reading over 100. After a couple-three months I touched 100, then a 104 and then a 108. 

I was not counting protein or fat during that time as I was learning to adjust fat content for stool purposes. I read about gluconeogenesis but not sure if that is where I landed.

My last test (around 8 months) I was at 100. I am now on meats, salt and water. The exercise part of the equation has increased and that may have helped me drop down or maybe even re-regulate. (if that is an actual word)

I don't think the monitors are all that expensive. If my mom didn't have one, I would probably buy one for myself.

Scott