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In this episode of Blood Sugar Unfiltered, Russ Powell, RD, CDCES, breaks down the 2026 Management of Dyslipidemia guidelines—the new, more holistic approach to cholesterol and heart health. Rather than just “chasing numbers” like LDL and HDL, these guidelines prioritize prevention, personalized risk assessment, and lifestyle as a first-line, Class A recommendation.

Russ explains what tests like Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] and ApoB actually mean, why they matter (especially if you have type 2 diabetes), and how to talk with your provider about getting the right labs—not just more labs. You’ll also learn practical, realistic nutrition and lifestyle strategies you can start using right away to cut your long-term risk of heart attack and stroke, even if you have a genetic predisposition.

“Even if you have a genetic predisposition for heart disease, healthy lifestyle habits can still cut your risk of adverse outcomes by about 50%—you have far more power than just your lab numbers suggest.” - Russ

Learn more about:

• Lifestyle first: 2026 guidelines give lifestyle a Class A recommendation before medications.
• New focus: Shift from “cholesterol numbers” to overall dyslipidemia management and true heart-risk assessment.
• Better risk tools: A new calculator looks at 30-year risk, adds kidney function, and removes race as a factor.
• Advanced labs matter: Lp(a) and ApoB tests help uncover hidden risk, especially in people with type 2 diabetes.
• You still have power: Even with genetic risk, lifestyle changes can cut adverse outcomes by ~50%.

Ready to Feel More in Control (and Less Overwhelmed)?
If you’ve been wanting:

• structure
• accountability
• a blood sugar plan that fits your real life
• support with holiday and New Year goals

…now is the perfect time to reach out.

Book your complimentary discovery call:
👉 https://www.russpowellnutrition.com/book

Russ accepts:

• BCBS
• UHC
• Anthem
• HSA/FSA cards
• And flexible self-pay options

Links Mentioned

• Complimentary Discovery Call → https://www.russpowellnutrition.com/book
• Russ’s website → https://www.russpowellnutrition.com
• Instagram → @balanced.bloodsugar.rd

If You Loved This Episode…

• Leave a review to help others find Blood Sugar Unfiltered!
• Screenshot and share on Instagram and tag @balanced.bloodsugar.rd so Russ can cheer you on.
• Send this episode to someone navigating the holidays with blood sugar in mind.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, Russ breaks down a fresh, realistic way to approach holiday eating without guilt, restriction, or the infamous “I’ll restart in January” spiral. You’ll learn why the holidays themselves aren’t the problem, how to avoid turning them into a full holi-week, and how to anchor your choices using a simple principle: start with the end in mind.

Russ also shares an eye-opening insight about January A1c labs and why they actually reflect your holiday months(October, November, and December), not what happens in January.

If you want a calm, joyful approach to holiday meals that still supports steady blood sugars and strong momentum going into the new year, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn

• Why holiday eating doesn’t have to derail your progress
• The difference between a holi-day and a “holi-week” (and how to avoid the trap)
• How to use “start with the end in mind” to make intentional choices
• Practical strategies to stay consistent with protein, pairing, hydration, and movement
• How holiday meals impact blood sugar and what actually helps
• The truth about January A1c draws (and what months they really reflect)
• How to enjoy holiday food without losing structure, balance, or joy

Ready to Feel More in Control (and Less Overwhelmed)?

If you’ve been wanting:

• structure
• accountability
• a blood sugar plan that fits your real life
• support with holiday and New Year goals

…now is the perfect time to reach out.

Book your complimentary discovery call:
👉 https://www.russpowellnutrition.com/book

Russ accepts:

• BCBS
• UHC
• Anthem
• HSA/FSA cards
• And flexible self-pay options

Links Mentioned

• Complimentary Discovery Call → https://www.russpowellnutrition.com/book
• Russ’s website → https://www.russpowellnutrition.com
• Instagram → @balanced.bloodsugar.rd

If You Loved This Episode…

• Leave a review to help others find Blood Sugar Unfiltered!
• Screenshot and share on Instagram and tag @balanced.bloodsugar.rd so Russ can cheer you on.
• Send this episode to someone navigating the holidays with blood sugar in mind.

Send us Fan Mail

Ever had your CGM tell you one thing while your fingerstick says something completely different? In this episode of Blood Sugar Unfiltered, I share a real story of when my sensor started running consistently high and how it sent me spiraling with unnecessary corrections, frustration, and confusion.

We’ll talk about:

• Why CGMs can sometimes feel “off” compared to fingersticks
• FDA accuracy standards explained in plain English
• How circulation, hydration, and compression lows affect readings
• What to do when your sensor readings don’t make sense
• When to trust your body and when to call for a replacement

Whether you’re new to CGMs or have been wearing one for years, this conversation will help you understand the quirks of the tech and remind you: the goal is patterns, not perfection.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

✔️ Why fingersticks and CGM numbers don’t always match
✔️ The simple “15 rule” for checking accuracy
✔️ Common sensor issues like compression lows and hydration gaps
✔️ Practical steps when your CGM feels unreliable
✔️ How to reframe frustration and focus on long-term patterns

Connect With Me

If you’ve ever had a wild CGM vs. fingerstick difference, I’d love to hear it!
📲 DM me on Instagram: @balanced.bloodsugar.rd
📧 Email: contact@russpowellnutrition.com

Want help making peace with your CGM data and your blood sugar? Explore my programs here: russpowellnutrition.com

Support & Insurance Options

I accept most major health plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), Anthem, and UnitedHealthcare (UHC). You can also use FSA/HSA benefits, and I offer budget-friendly self-pay options for coaching and programs.