Is there such a thing as having a insulin score too low?

(Diane Kovach) #1

Hello, after 8 weeks strict keto I had my annual physical. My fasting insulin was 3.1. The reference range on my data sheet shows 5.0-27.0 (!) Also there was a L tag on that line meaning my reading was low. Is there any problem of a low level of insulin where a person should be concerned? My TRI were 50.

(Bob M) #2

No known problems. They’re using a reference level for carb eaters.

(You've tried everything else; why not try bacon?) #3

We need some insulin, or we’d starve to death—that’s what happened to Type I diabetics before insulin was discovered. Insulin also helps the brain function properly. If you’re feeling well, you’re fine.

(Running from stupidity) #4

I worry about this bit. Maybe I have way too little insulin.

(Duncan Kerridge) #5

Last time mine was checked about a year ago it was 2.1, doesn’t appear to have caused any issues.

(Chris) #6

Heh. Well played.

(Ethan) #7

It’s a probability thing to detect a condition. If you have a low fasting insulin score AND either a highly elevated a1c or highly elevated fasting glucose, it is likely you have type-1 diabetes. The presence of the the low fasting insulin score itself isn’t indicative of a problem, especially with a reason for the low vale (keto)

(Janet) #8

Sure hope not, or I’d be dead. I have had fasting insulin checked every spring 2011-2018. First, the reference range my LabCorp uses is 2.6-24.9. My goal is to be under 5, once it was a L 1.7, but that was after an 18 hour fast. Now I do the blood draw 12-14 hours after a meal. Highest ever was 9.3. The past three years were 2.5, 3.6 and 4.1. btw, my Trigs have been 30 and HDL 100 for all these years too. If there is a problem with too low, I wouldn’t be a healthy 67 year old taking zero medications.

(Diane Kovach) #9

WOW! That’s awesome. Thanks for the info and congratulations on your good health.

(Diane Kovach) #10

Thank you everyone for your feedback.

(Doug) #11

:nauseated_face: with envy over those numbers :slightly_smiling_face::sunglasses: Well done, Janet!