I am a 61 y.o. female who is of normal weight (BMI is 22) and moderately active. I have been vegan for 8 years and was vegetarian/pescatarian for 21 years prior to that. I often do intermittent fasting (16:8) and sleep very well.
I recently went to a gynecologist due to frequent, urgent urination. I was given a HEMOGLOBIN A1C test and it was 11.1. My blood pressure was 168/104. Since then (2 weeks ago), I have eaten very little sodium and drastically lowered my fat intake. For the last four days, I have tried the Buchinger Fast and today I started the Oatmeal diet. My BP (using a home device) has gone down very little. I'm not sure if my glucose levels have decreased. I did lose 3 pounds, but I really didn't need to.
I used to eat processed vegan meats, cheeses, and treats on occasion, and cooked with avocado or olive oils, but have eliminated them for now, until I can see major improvements in my numbers. I eat a lot of vegetables, legumes, fruits, and whole grains. My snacks are unsalted nuts, seeds, and fruit smoothies that include berries, kale, chia and flax seeds. I drink a LOT of water (approx. 125 oz) and one cup of coffee each day.
I've had issues with gestational diabetes, and being pre-diabetic and diabetic off and on for decades. I had hoped becoming vegan 8 years ago would have resolved this, but sadly not. My parents were not overweight, but had issues with diabetes, high triglycerides, high cholesterol, and a heart attack for my dad, so they've both taken meds. I really don't want to take prescription meds. until I've exhausted all options.
What helpful recommendations do you have that I have not yet tried?
