Can I do Keto and Intermittent Fasting if I'm a diabetic and on metformin and insulin?

Yes you can. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you have high blood sugar. Metformin makes the receptors more responsive to insulin, and insulin replaces what the pancreas is not providing the body. The problem is if you’re type 1 they are giving you insulin to control your unstable blood sugars, and your insulin is high as a result. With both conditions you have high sugar and high high insulin at the same time.

It is more dangerous to have high insulin than high sugar. A sustained high level of insulin destroys the retina, kidneys, arteries and brain. High sugar can lead to this as well, but high insulin is far more destructive.

The goal is to take the least amount of insulin possible. With Type 1 maybe your pancreatic beta cells are completely destroyed with no chance of recovery, but you still want to take the least amount of insulin and avoid triggers of insulin.

You want to focus more on your diet and frequency of eating by reducing carbs and implementing intermittent fasting – which will allow for you to take the least amount of insulin. This will also help you to improve insulin resistance, which will take the stress off of your liver and the cells. You want to work with a doctor that will help wean you off or at least lessen the amounts so you can have the fewest side effects. Get with your doctor as you manage your medications on this.