The February class was our best yet, with students transforming their metabolisms in just three weeks. These emails come from the questions asked inside the class.

If you find this email valuable, forward it to a friend who wants to learn about the authentic ketogenic lifestyle. Let’s reach more people who are ready to take control of their health!

Q: How does sickness affect my fasting glucose levels?

(Or: “Why is my glucose back to 107? Did my insulin resistance return?”)

This is a common concern, especially for those managing insulin resistance. Let’s explore the answer through the experience of Tailor Doe, a dedicated participant in our 21-Day Metabolic Kick course.

Tailor’s Story: A Setback with a Silver Lining

Tailor, a lean and committed student, had successfully lowered her morning fasting glucose from the triple digits to the 80s and 90s—a victory after years of insulin resistance. Her progress inspired classmates still striving for similar results. But during the second week of the course, Tailor’s fasting glucose crept back above 100. She blamed a restless night, only to realize she was coming down with influenza A. Over the next five days, her glucose hovered between 104 and 110 as fever, fatigue, and muscle aches set in.

The Science: Cortisol and Your Body’s Defense

When your body faces an infection like influenza, it activates a stress response. Cortisol—often misunderstood as purely harmful—plays a vital role here. It:

• Mobilizes the immune system to fight the invader.
• Triggers the liver to produce more glucose (gluconeogenesis), providing energy for white blood cells and other defenses.

In Tailor’s case, the spike in cortisol raised her blood sugar, fueling her body’s battle against the virus. This is a normal, protective response—not a sign that her insulin resistance had returned.

Why Metabolic Health Matters

Six months ago, Tailor’s response might have been different. Before the ketogenic diet, her cells were less efficient at using glucose due to insulin resistance. But after months of sustained ketosis:

• Her cells were primed to utilize glucose effectively.
• Ketones provided an alternative fuel source, supporting her recovery.

For those with longstanding insulin resistance, the same infection could be more taxing. Their cells might struggle to access the extra glucose, weakening the immune response. Tailor’s story highlights the power of metabolic health in preparing your body for challenges like illness.

What This Means for You

If your fasting glucose rises during sickness, it’s not a failure—it’s your body’s defense mechanism at work. Focus on recovery through:

• Rest and hydration.
• Maintaining your ketogenic lifestyle, when possible.
• Consulting your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Tailor’s experience is a reminder that temporary glucose spikes during illness don’t erase your progress. With a resilient metabolism, your body can handle the stress and bounce back stronger.

Dr. Boz 

Annette Bosworth, M.D.