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It is important to keep track of your progress and vital signs while following
low-carb nutritional approaches. This log can also be shared with your healthcare
provider at each visit.
ASSESSMENTS
Date Weight
Blood
Pressure
Heart
Rate
Waist
Circumference
Comments
Weight and Waist Circumference
• Start at the top of the hip bone,
then bring the tape measure all
the way around your body, level
with the umbilicus. You can hold
the beginning of the tape measure
at the umbilicus and rotate 360° in
front of you to accomplish this.
• Make the tape snug but not tight
and record the measurement right
after exhalation. Note: if waist
circumference multiplied by two is
greater than your height, then risk is
higher for metabolic syndrome. Use
the same unit of measurement for
both (e.g., inches).
Blood Pressure and Heart Rate
• You should be seated, relaxed, and
rested for five minutes prior to
measurement. Use an appropriately
sized cuff since a cuff that is too
small falsely elevates the reading.
Note: Many individuals with diabetes
have stiff arteries, which can cause
a falsely elevated blood pressure
reading.
• While not tracked at every visit, it's
also important to keep a log of the
following:
‣ Lipid panel, including:
Total cholesterol, HDL, LDL,
and triglycerides
‣ Thyroid-stimulating hormone
(TSH)
‣ Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)
‣ Vitamin D
Vitals and Basic Testing Essentials
