Hi there.  I'm hoping someone can help me.  I started taking Alli after a July 4th vacation, as my father had been taking it for a while and has had a good amount of weight loss (50lbs in 5 months).  I've lost 10lbs so far, but recently had health troubles that led to a blood test to check for polycystic overaries or adrenal problems (I think I've got the latter).  My doctor noted to me that my insulin is now very high (47), and I should reduce my carb intake and engage in cardio exercise (I already walk) to bring the insulin down.

I'm hypoglycemic (reactive, and it's genetic), so I do try to avoid eating too many carbs in the course of a day.  But now I wonder, how much is enough for me?

If further details are needed, I'm 5' 8", 170lbs.

I spoke to a few folks on another health related forum, and was chastised for taking Alli with my health issues.  Honestly, my doctor sees no issue with it (her husband is pre-diabetic and is also on Alli).  I haven't had any odd side effects from it.  Not even treatment effects.  Any assistance that could be given would be greatly appreciated.  I'm trying not to worry about this too much, just want to hit the high insulin head on with the right doses of food and exercise.

I should also add that I stick to approximately 1500 calories per day.  A few times I've gone closer to 1800, but usually it's a lower caloric intake. 

There is no drug interaction between alli and diabetes (or other conditions related to diabetes) medications; however, people with diabetes may have lower blood sugar levels and improved glycemic control after losing weight with alli.  This may require a dose reduction of their diabetes medication.  I will encourage you to seek the consultation of a registered dietitian in your area so you can be provided with a specific meal plan with the right amount of carbohydrates for you.  alli has not interaction with glucose levels, however, it is important that you watch your carbohydrates and stay within your grams of fat per meal.  Usually an adult female will require between 45 to 50 grams of carbs per meal, while an adult male will require about 60 to 65 grams of carbs per meal.  You may continue taking alli safely, but make sure you continue your doctors visits so they can monitor your glucose levels and start consulting with a registered dietitian so you can have a more precise meal plan.  For more information about finding a registered dietitian in your area go to www.eatright.org

Hope this helps,

Sylvia Melendez-Klinger, MS, RD, LDN, CPT - registered dietitian

 Whoops!  I tried posting and it left me with a blank reply.  Ah well.  I wanted to say thanks for the information, and that it should help me benchmark what I need to eat (carbs) until I can see an endocrinologist, which will be soon.  My general physician doesn't want to stick me on any meds as I am not diabetic or nearing that threshold at this time.  She wants to see if eating less carbs and doing more exercise works.  So far, I've been adding extra walks during my weekday schedule (2 to 3 miles per day) and am doing workouts at home when I can.  I'm looking forward to the weekend, as I've found some physical activities at Epcot that I've never tried before (Surrey bikes, paddle boats) besides walking around the parks (3 to 4 mile walks - weekend).  These should be a fun way to get around and get myself moving even more.  :)

So glad to hear you are not near pre diabetes or diabetes.  You are in the right track! If you watch your carbs, which most of us eat way to many, you should be able to lose weight and prevent any diabetes.   Keep finding fun activities to stay active.  Vary the activities and find friends and family to keep you motivated.  The more you move the more calories burned.  Every step counts.

Keep up the good work!

Have an active and healthy weekend :)

Sylvia Melendez-Klinger, MS, RD, LDN, CPT - registered dietitian