Diabetes #11

[luzcious]

Hi everyone, it's been pretty quiet lately. Must mean everyone is having a great summer. We just went through a hot spell for about a week. I thought I was going to be able to start a routine of exercising but when it gets that hot, I don't want to move.

I've been doing ok. I was doing really well last week and then yesterday we had a "goodie day" at work. I thought I was going to be ok but ended up blowing it. Today I wasn't as good as I could've been. I was doing so well. I just have to learn that once I make the comittment that I can't fall off, because it sure is hard getting back on.

This might sound crazy, but I borrowed my sister's digital camera and took one of those goofy pictures of myself holding the camera at arms length. Ohmygosh, I can't tell you how many chins I had. :lol: Wake up call! :lol:

Anyway, hope everyone is well. Please come back and chat with me. :D I miss you! :(

:wave:

[janney]

:wave:

Hi Luzcious. I know what you mean about the exercising and the heat here in Michigan. It's been so hot. It was nice today and I actually went out walking for a bit. What a good feeling!!

As for blowing it yesterday, don't worry about it. You'll get back on track and all will be fine. The important thing is to try and keep your sugar in check, even though blowing it.

I went to dinner with ladies from work tonight. It was hard because the place we went to is known for their hamburgers and onion rings. I ordered a grilled, skinless chicken breast with rice and a salad. Actually, it was very good. I probably would have ordered the hamburger but my sugar was running high today and I didn't want to chance it. Even with the insulin, I don't like playing with it.

Sorry I haven't written in awhile. I've been with another group on the panic and depression. That's been a very big help. I do read this every day. Thanks to all for all the good reads. You people are very informative.

Hope all are well. :)

[baboo]

Hi All - Well, I just spent the past week at my parents house, house-sitting, dog-sitting and babysitting my 5 year old nephew while they went to Baton Rouge for the Senior Olympics (my Dad was competing in racquetball). Boy, talk about stress!:(

I ate a lot of junk food and didn't test every day and ate at weird times every day so my BS was wacky! I took a couple of days off from work and spent one day taking my neice to the airport in Dallas. It's been go, go, go!:dizzy:

I got back to work today and there was a pile of crap on my desk! Plus we were out of Cokes, snacks and candy so I had to make a Sam's run. And I went to exercise class at noon after skipping 3 days and I am beat! It's not even 9:00 and I'm ready for bed!

My period is about to start so I am craving chocolate like crazy! I bought a Dove bar and I am eating one square of it every night before bed. It satisfies my craving and it's better than eating a whole bar every night :lol:

It's been very hot here, yesterday was 111! The Dallas Cowboys are here for summer training camp and I know they have to be dying out there! It's their 3rd summer here. Some people go out to the university to watch, but not me...it's too dang hot!

Well, hope everyone has a great weekend and has great BS readings!

Barbi

[jlea]

Hi everyone,

Sorry I haven't been posting lately. My life isn't my own any more!:D

I had my appointment with the endocrinologist a week ago and I am trying carb counting now.:?: I've been trying it on my own, but go Friday for my first class. My A1c was 7.2%, not too bad, but not the 5.5 and 6's that I had been having. My doctor said it's not anything I'm doing or not doing that has my blood sugar running higher, it's just that my pancreas isn't working very good and that I will need more insulin along as time goes by. But I've been frustrated and not in the best mood lately. :D

I'll try to check back more often and let you know how the carb counting is going.:)

[luzcious]

Hi all,

I only have a few minutes as I am posting from work. My Dad has been in and out of the hospital and haven't had much time to post. He's in again and I'm going up after work. I just wanted to say that I have been reading and wish everyone well. I'm doing really well at managing my sugars. I was testing in the 140's in the morning after fasting, and now I'm in the 120's. My doc said fasting sugars should be about 115. I'm almost there. I've really been watching my carb intake and have almost elimated all sugar.

Gotta go, I'll try to post more tonight.

Have a great day ladies! :wave:

[jlea]

Sorry about your dad luzcious. I hope he's better soon.

You're doing great on you FBS readings. I wish I could say the same..... :o

[Mis]

Hi everyone,

I'm back from holidays. I went to Northern Ontario to visit my sister-in-law, I gained a bit of weight but managed to keep my BS pretty much under control.

Janet, sorry to hear you're having a difficult time. I'm trying to limit my carbs but find it extremely difficult as I seem to need them to stave off hunger. I don't have much of a problem with sugars (candy, chocolate--don't even like chocolate), but i sure want my bread.

We're having a hot, humid spell right now so I'm not walking after work, and even with air conditioning I don't feel like doing my exercise tapes.

Look forward to hearing from you all again, I really missed you while I was away.

Linda

[jlea]

Linda,

Welcome back.:)

I have an appointment today and tomorrow also at the Diabetes Center to learn how to count carbs. Today is more of an assessment to see how much I know about diabetes, and tomorrow is the actual appointment with the dietician. I will get one-on-one instruction, and am also registered for the class next month. I'm going to give it a try. Whatever it takes to get my blood sugar in control again! My blood sugar has been in a good range today, and was most of the day yesterday. It just doesn't stay that way very long. It's been very frustrating for me!

[Mis]

Janet,

Good luck with your appointments. From what I've read here, you know a lot about diabetes and I know you'll get it under control again.

Linda

[baboo]

Hi All - Luz, how is your Dad, is he still in the hospital? I hope it's not anything serious.

Linda - did you have a good time with your sister-in-law? I'm going to Oklahoma City this weekend to see my sister. It's about 2 hours from where I live.

Janet - I hope you like the carb class! When I went to the diabetes training classes I learned a lot from the dietician! It's a lot of work reading the labels on everything, but after a few weeks you just "know" how many carbs something has and you don't even have to look anymore. You'll get the hang of it really fast. What shocked me was that what they called a serving was nowhere near what I called a serving! Haha!

My BS has been okay, been a little on the low side - in the 70's. I've been exercising a lot lately so I've been trying to snack before going to the Y, but I hate to eat before exercising! But if I don't, then I start shaking and feeling faint. I keep my Medic Alert bracelet on all the time now, even when I'm showering and sleeping. If I pass out I want someone to know what's wrong right away!

It's very hot here and very dry! I'm pining for Winter! I ordered a new winter coat and I can't wait to wear it. I'm ready for frost and blue Northers!

Well, hope y'all are doing okay. Later -

Barbi

[Poohbear10]

Hi Everyone:

I have not posted here for quite some time, but do manage to check in on a fairly regular basis. I am sorry to hear that so many are having so much trouble regulating, but at the same time, reassures me that I am not doing anything too wrong myself when I see the fluctuations.

I have had a terrible time over the past 2 weeks. My sugars are going up again when I had managed to get them to a fairly reasonable level. We had some bad news at work that upcoming layoffs are on the way and I am afraid that I am reacting poorly to the stress. I seem to crave chocolate like crazy lately and think it is also a reaction to the stress. I find that I am not watching carefully or monitoring as stringently as I did last month. Really need some direction on how to regain control.

I am still taking the Metformin and have vowed not to eat any more fast food. I realize that I need to take things one step at a time, but with so much happening it is hard to focus.

Anyway, as usual, thanks to everyone for their help and their encouragement.

:?:

[Mis]

Hi everyone,

Barbi, I had a wonderul time with my sister-in-law. She lives in an area called the Land of a Thousand Lakes, so it's really beautiful up there. How was your weekend?

Poohbear, it's good to hear from you again. All i can say is hang in there, I know it's hard. I've had good BS levels lately, but this past two weeks I've had a dreadful time sticking to my diet, and of course they ordered pizza at work today and of course I couldn't stay away, so I've eaten my points for the day, oh well!!!.

Janet, how are you doing? I was hoping to hear how your appointments went.

Are you all having a heat wave? We sure are.

Look forward to hearing from everyone again soon. Have a good day.


Linda

[jlea]

Linda,

I had my first real appointment yesterday. My other one got cancelled at the last minute by the dietician. I feel like I learned a lot. We went over stuff for almost an hour and a half. I go back again Friday morning. I sat down last night and tried making out a menu today. I get 3 1/2 carb exchanges a meal, plus 1 at my snack times. I'm allowed 5-6 oz. of protein a day, and 1 fat exchange at each meal. She has this figured on a 1500 calorie diet and I'm sticking with my current insulin dosages for now. I felt like I was eating so much at breakfast! I usually have a light breakfast. She figured this is what I need to maintain 130 pounds with my age and height. I weigh a little more than that, but told her that's where I wanted to be.

I'm also figuring the WW points for each meal after I get everything else figured. :dizzy:

I hope this works. I'm just afraid that 1500 calories is a little too much for me. I want to reduce my insulin dosage back to where I was 3 months ago. I will give this a try though. I know I'll eventually find the right range for me.:)

I want to get my A1c back down before my next doctor's appointment. The last one was 7.2. The whole year before that was 5.5 and 6%. I want my good numbers back!:cool:

[luzcious]

Hi everyone! Hope all is well. I'm struggling, again. I am such a stress eater, it's awful. With my Dad in and out of the hospital, it's like a rollercoaster ride. I don't know why I just can't eat right all the time. It's should be so darn simple! :mad: I really do beat myself up way too much. I try and try and it just seems like two steps forward and three steps back.

I'm trying to cut costs around my house so I had my cable cancelled! I can use that to my advantage to get out and move my butt more, but just the opposite is happening, I'm surfing the web and stuffing my face.

What is it going to take? Will one of you (or all of you) reach out and SLAP me!!!!!!!! :spin: I would've thought that being diagnosed with diabetes would have done it, whatever it is, but I haven't made any progress. I read and read and read about it and then get scared and think, "OK, this is it, I don't want to develope all the complications from diabetes." And then two hours later I'm eating again. UGGGHHHHHHHH!

Ok, now that I got that off my chest, how is everybody else doing? It's absolutely beautiful here this weekend and I picked this weekend of all weekends to paint my apt. After dinner, I AM going for a walk, 30 minutes!!!!!

Well, sorry to ramble and hope to see you all around!

:wave:
Michelle

[jlea]

Michelle,

You are right, it should be so simple but it never is! But hang in there. I know what you are going through because I used to do the dame thing. I'd read about all the complications while I was stuffing myself. Just keep working at it and trying harder and you will do it.:)

I've been very frustrated myself. I finally decided to quit the carb counting and just count points again. I had gotten my carbs adjusted again, and it is now more like what I was eating anyway, but it's just taking too much of my energy and time to figure out my menu according to the carb and food exchanges, then counting points and adjusting that until I'm in the right point range. All it has done is made me want to stress eat all weekend, and I'm just tired of it. I will follow the tips and suggestions I have gotten from the dietician, but I'm counting points first from now on. And I feel better since making that decision today.:) You can't teach an old dog new tricks, and I'm feeling old at the moment since I'm turning 49 next month!:cry: :D

I have my grandson visiting for a few days. He's 7 and wanted to come up to visit before school starts next week.:) This should keep me busy since my 3 year old granddaughter is here every day while her mom works and she's a handful herself.

[caras]

Hi everyone....I've been gone soooo long. I've checked in now and then..but have been stuck firmly in "denialbetes"...however, I've missed you and all your support. And I've gotten a handle on reality..hard to believe..after 39 years of insulin dependent diabetes...I'm finally making strides. I'm being evaluated for an insulin pump...and my kidneys are clinging by their tubules...so now I'm carbo counting (total 150 grams per day) with 3 ounces of white protein (fish or egg whites) daily, Fortunately I can also count 2 ounces of cheese as dairy....and I dropped about 20 pounds so far since 7/16. I'll know exactly how much 8/20. My specialist advises avoiding the scale between MD appointments. My A1C was 5.2 and my highest serum glucose since 7/16 has been 142. I test at least 4 times daily and inject Humulog 3 times daily and Lantus 1 time. Keep the faith friends...perfection isn't the goal, progress is.

[jlea]

caras,

glad to see you back.:)I have been trying carb counting but am giving it up to count points again. I just don't have the patience to do both and I want to stay with WW.:D But I'm kind of counting them in my head as I plan my meals by points, to try to keep my proteins and fats balanced with the guidelines my dietician had set up.

I talked to my doctor about a pump when I saw her in July. She didn't think it was what I needed, but my diabetes educator thinks it would be good.

Keep posting.:)

[caras]

hi Janet and everyone....
I don't know much about weight watchers but their point system sounds like a good plan. Carbo counting has been a great plan for me. Unfortunately, I am one of those food addicted:( folks..who the minute I hear the word diet, I want to cheat and do. To stay in okay control I have to deemphasize the importance of food to me:dizzy: and think of this as a lifestyle. As a nurse therapist my specialty is & has been Motivational Health Psychology. As a person my specialty has been ignore and avoid, and of course, feed the addiction. Healing is tough, grieving for chocolate tougher..but we can do this!

[jlea]

I think we all avoid and ignore when it comes to ourselves sometimes! But yes, we can do this!:D

[caras]

Hi all...I saw my regular doctor today... I've lost 16 pounds since July 16 :p unofficially. I see the Diabetic Specialist in Buffalo 9/5 and the kidney specialist:?: the same day...we'll see what's new then. I have used Joslin clinic "armchair exercise tape" for sometime.so decided to move up to beginning Balance Ball. Note to anyone considering Balance ball...be sure to inflate correctly..thighs paralell with the floor...cuz otherwise, your butt slips off and over you go:lol: what a sight that was. But now that my ball's inflated I love it.
Its a beautiful tape and fun. Keep it up all

[jlea]

Congratulations on the weight loss.:) I hope your other appointments go well.

My blood sugar has been real good the past few days. My doctor will be thrilled. I need to fax my BS readings to her before the end of the week. I was supposed to do it sooner, but there wasn't anything good to report!:D Since I dropped my point range back down they are getting back to the normal ranges.

I'm getting ready to walk on the treadmill. I meant to start a little while ago, but got sidetracked. That's easy for me to do!

[SIN NOMBRE]

My endo doc diagnosed diabetes with these numbers:FBS 120 2hrPP 140 and Hb1AC 6%(lab normal 5%)I take 3 meds that are known to raise BS levels and 10yrs. Graves' disease a known risk factor for diabetes.My GP and cardio doc are skeptical of the diagnosis and lean toward IGT.I am not fooling around with this,so while the experts are shooting it out,I went ahead,saw an RD, am CHO counting along with WWand will be joining a Joslin Diabetes class at the local hosp. this fall.I would like to join this thread and learn from the more experienced
I monitor my BS 4x daily am only on diet and exercise and my question to you is even after reading the John Hopkins Diabetes Book cover to cover I can only find hypoglycemia referenced to the use of insulin or pills,they dismiss it as never or rarely happening to diet/exercise controlled patients.It happened to me 2 hrs pp yesterday ,no symptoms BS 57, 4oz coke and 15 min later BS of 120.What can this mean? Thanks in advance
Peggy

[jlea]

Peggy,

Welcome.:)

Your test results were better numbers than I usually ever have on a good day!:D

But you are right to be concerned and do all the things you need to do to help yourself. Diabetes is a very "personal" disease in that you are the one that ultimately controls it and makes the choices that you feel are right for you.

While my daughter doesn't have diabetes, she does have hypoglycemia, and her blood sugar often drops very low. If she goes too long without eating she gets the same symptoms I have. Sometimes her hands are shaking so bad she can hardly hold the food to eat it. I used to test her blood sugar a lot. Now that she's an adult, she is a little more careful about waiting too long to eat, but still gets caught once in a while. And I fuss at her because she is a nurse and should know better.:D

My sister also has this and one of her daughters. And I have read somewhere over the years that is is common for a child of a diabetic to have hypoglycemia problems. I don't remember where I read this because I've had diabetes close to 20 years and have read so many articles and books over the years.

But you can have hypoglycemia without it being caused from pills or insulin.

[SIN NOMBRE]

I would like to join this thread and learn from your experience.my endo doc diagnosed me with a FBS of 120 2hr.PP 140 and Hb1AC of 6%(lab normal 5%)I also take 3 meds that are known to raise BS/10 yrs.graves' disease also a known risk factor.My gp and cardio doc are skeptical and lean toward IGT.While the experts are shooting it out,I have moved right along,saw an RD,am carb counting/WW and monitoring BS 4xdaily.
I have read the Johns Hopkins Diabetes book cover to cover and can find hypoglecemia references only to insulin and pills.It says it rarely or never happens to patients only on diet/exercise and doesn't cover it.In the past 2wks.I have had a patttern of my BS falling after breakfast.Yesterday it fell to 57,no symptoms,but I followed sop had 4oz coke and 15 min later it was 120.I am having great success with the carb counting,am loathe to change the diet,today it was fine going from FBS of 90 to pp of 114,and my next appt.with the RD is late Sept.Any or all help from the diabetic community would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[SIN NOMBRE]

I am knew to this I did the post submitted it then a utilty guy came to the door said the power would be off for an hour to trim trees.When I came back on I could not find it so posted again.Have not read the replies yet.Thanks

[SIN NOMBRE]

thanks Janet I suppose I am still in the honeymoon period with this.I am so scatterbrained lately,I see my second post added a little more info.I love a mystery and am sure this can be solved.Did you like the RD? Some of them can be too prim,slim and intimidating for my taste.No offence meant to anyone out there,this is my problem.The one I went to belongs to WW so that was an added bonus.She was nice and chatty (like me) we both learned a lot as I am her first Graves'patient.After a career as a chef my oldest son is a brand new RN and will be starting in Cardio at Beth Israel NYC in the fall.Small world.I will stay in touch.Peggy

[jlea]

Peggy,

My dietician is really nice, but I get the feeling she would rather I count carbs than points and after trying both for a little while I went back to points. I don't want to quit WW and I've always been careful with my carbs anyway. I'm back in pretty good control now and I'm going to continue with the points. I just need to tell her that!:D I'm supposed to go back Friday.

[caras]

Hi Janet, Peggy and all,

Janet, remember when you see the RD.she's just one partner in your health care and you are the most important partner. A skillful RD should be flexible enough to convert CHO counting to WW points and progressive enough to want you to use whatever works for you.

Peggy, hypoglycemia can surely strike without insulin or pills...miss meals, eat alot of sweets or drink alcohol (alot), exercise a lot,stress or a fright, certain medications...just a few of the things that can affect your blood sugar. Its never simple. Take good care of yourself....I've made 39 years with insulin dependence.

Tomorrow's lab drawn A1C, Metabolic Panel & Renal Panel day....oh joy...oh bliss

[luzcious]

Hi everyone, can't stay long as storms are on the way and I just hate being on the computer when it starts storming.

Just wanted to say that I haven't tested in almost a week. My eating habits are OUT OF CONTROL. So many excuses - not reasons- to describe. One good thing is that I have started to walk regularly. Three days this past week. I know that's not alot but for me it is. I walk for 1/2 hour. Went this morning, before the rain came. It was nice and peaceful!

Ok, well...hopefully will report better news about my diet next time I post. Keep up the good work everyone. I'm still trying, and I will succeed one of these times!

Michelle

[caras]

Hi Michelle and all...
Honestly, I know just what you mean but I find when my eating habits are the most wild is the time I most need to test and often. :devil: It's a devil of a thing...but sometimes just seeing those ugly #'s helps motivate me. Walking is soooo good for you, keep it up....every 1 step more helps. I've been slacking off the balance ball for no good reason or excuse either...and I fell way off the CHO wagon:dizzy: today with ice cream...I'm one of those women who won't dirty a bowl for 1/2 cup..heavens that can be eaten right off the spoon - groan! We can do this..it's progress not perfection we're after. Sunshine...Cara

[luzcious]

Cara, you are so right about testing. But, sometimes I don't understand how I can eat carbs at night and my bs level is almost "normal", we'll say 120ish. But, starting tomorrow morning, back to daily morning tests.

I've also noticed that my budget has been really tight and I eat more junk because it's cheaper than fresh veggies and fruit. It takes alot of planning in order to get a weeks worth of good foods on little money. I'm not saying it can't be done, I just have to sit down and work at it.

Take care and thanks for the advice!
Michelle

[SIN NOMBRE]

hello all re: hypo you think the doc might have mentioned it,although it didn't happen until after I had already blown off,an appt.I will be going to diabetes classes next month and discuss it then.
I have a lot to learn,need to go back to the drawing board with this.I was using a lot of conv foods as it was so easy to count carbs.My BP was way up at gp's the other day so the salt has to go.
DH and I went to the drive-in last night,not realizing,that Jay and Silent Bob was a teen-age gross out flick.Parts of it were very funny,even if some of the language was way harsh.We enjoyed the Others,dark and moody,not to everyone's taste.
Hope everyone is having a good week.
Peggy

[Poohbear10]

Hi Everyone:

Feel like I have been away forever. We are really busy at work and I am taking advantage of all of the overtime I can grab at the moment. We are facing layoffs and should have been notified by now, but rumour has it we will not know for at least another month. This has added additional stress on top of everything else that has been happening.

I find that my sugar levels are once again way out of control and that I am having a hard time with chocolate. If it is in the vicinity, I eat it. Have tried not to tempt myself, but others around me just don't get the message.

I have been so stressed and so busy that I have not made the time for myself to test. I am down to about once every other day. I know as a newly diagnosed diabetic how important it is for me to do this and to take care of myself. Hopefully once the kids return to school and things wind down workwise, I will finally be able to make the time for me.

Thanks everyone for listening. It is good to know that we are not all perfect and that others are experiencing the same feelings and problems that I am.

I check the board every 2-3 days when I can. Keep up the good work - it is great to have the support.

:(

[janney]

Hello everyone. I'm sorry I haven't posted in awhile. I've been working a ton of hours, now that I'm back to work. I do come on about every 3 to 4 days and look though. Thanks for all the wisdom.

Sounds like some are having trouble controlling their b/s. Sorry to hear that. I'm still working on mine. I do find it every important to test at least once a day. I'm supposed to do it 3 to 4 times but mostly only do it once.

Following a healthy eating style is the toughest thing for me. With working a lot of hours, it's easier just to grab fast food or quick meals. Not to mention the price of fruits and produce!!:dizzy: It's almost as bad as the price of gas!!!!

No time for exercising, which I found was very important in keeping my sugar down. I have been fortunate though, as my sugars haven't been too bad. The insulin is really helping with that, although I still have a way to go.

Janet, sorry to hear you're having trouble getting your sugar into control. I know that stress plays a major role in that....Hope things start coming around for you.

To the rest, keep on trying. We will all get there someday.

I hold you all dear to me and thank you for all your help. This board is the best thing that has every happened......:love:

Hope to talk soon.

Jan

[caras]

Hi everyone, glad to see so many names I recognize...I keep a daily testing log with CHO count because if I don't...I am sooooo
inclined to cheat. But if I have to write it before I put it in my mouth it delays me just enough to cut down on stress eating. Also my 4 or 5 time a day blood testing keeps reality right in my face. I can't be trusted for a minute without forced controls. And I absolutely hate me when I'm in "denialbetes" One of the things I teach is stress reduction...if anyone's interested in a quick technique or two...just let me know. Has anyone heard from Ellie...if you're out there drop a line! My poor fingers look like a sieve but up to this point my HMO is unwilling to pay for the test strips for the AtLast or FreeStyle meters. Anyone using Lantus insulin?

[baboo]

Hi All - Been reading every day - just haven't been posting - my bad! Sounds like we are all stressed out - must be that time of year!

Had my GP appt. last week. FBS was 100, BP was 125/85, HbA1C was 6.0 - everything looked pretty good. My creatinine level was high so she took me off Avalide because she thinks it's dehydrating me and put me on Avapro and now I feel bloated all the time - yuck! I go to the endocrinologist tomorrow and hope he will suggest something else. My GP said they will discuss cutting the dosage on my Glucophage. I've been having good BS for quite a while now - always in the 80 - 110 range consistently. I exercise every day except Saturday and I know that is what is keeping the BS down. I go to a class at the YMCA Monday, Wednesday and Friday and walk and use the Nautilus equip. on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. I really love the exercise - I feel and sleep a whole lot better now.

I know what ya'll mean about testing - I get so tired of doing it and my BS is going to be whatever it is whether I test or not - right? But I try to do it at least once every day because sometimes I have lows and need to eat something. I really get tired of the damn insulin shots! I can't do my thighs anymore because they've gotten too muscular and it hurts so it's all stomach shots now and I'm starting to get bruises. I'll be glad if I ever get to quit the shots! I heard on the news this morning that they are trying to develop insulin that you take in a pill form - hey - I'm all for that!

My work is going pretty good. We just drilled 2 producing oil wells last week so everyone is in a good mood. We just might get a Christmas bonus this year! :lol:

I am going to San Antonio this weekend to visit my sister and brother, Can't wait to go and get away for a while.

Hope everyone has a good week.

Barbi

[SIN NOMBRE]

B you are a role model in the exercise dept Even the slow walking I am capable of now is making a difference.
As far as food goes I am still having the odd high as I learn to find what works for me.I have not yet chosen to give up any food, of course portions have really shrunk LOL It has been so long since I have been in school they have added new elements to the periodic table,yet from years of college chemistry one thing sticks in my mind,THE POISON IS IN THE DOSE.This is working for me right now,who knows the day might come when I might not want to go on that30 min. walk for that 1/2 c. rice I just consumed.
Good Day To You All
Peggy

[flavor32]

Do any of you know of some good web sites with information and support for those with diabetes? My mother-in-law was recently diagnosed and she's been feeling very overwhelmed & frustrated.

[jlea]

Have you visited the American Diabetes Association site? It is at http://www.diabetes.org/

There is also:
http://www.diabetic-lifestyle.com/ and
http://www.diabeteswatch.com/

You can use a search engine like yahoo to find the different sites. There are lots out there.

This is a good site to chat with other diabetics, as is the diabetic group at Dotti's Weight Loss Zone- http://www.dottisweightlosszone.com

It is very overwhelming to find out you have diabetes and it helps to have others to talk to.

[SIN NOMBRE]

thanks for the websites Joslin also has one.
I really like the Johns Hopkins Guide to Diabetes much better than the ADA Guide.
BTW I noticed JH uses <60 while ADA uses <50 as a hypo value.ADA also states clearly no hypo with exercise/diet crowd.LOL we know better.So I might read a few more and then pick one and stick with it or it all will get WAY confusing.Years ago all we had was DR. Spock,simple today there must be a millon baby books and young mothers are driving themselves crazy with all the advice.I am not going there with diabetes.
On another front you might help mil get a team together,inc.a csw or diabetes therapist to talk out her feelings.

[SIN NOMBRE]

Have a great holiday.Fall is my favorite season looking forward to it Peggy

[luzcious]

Hi everyone, hope you all had a great weekend. :)

I need help. My eating is OUT OF CONTROL. That's one reason why I haven't been contributing much. Can't be motivational to others when I can hardly manage to eat right myself.

Do any of you know of a strict diet that is good for diabetics? I'm looking for something that is all planned out, no thinking involved. Pick a day and eat what it says. That's what I need right now. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
Michelle :wave:

[SIN NOMBRE]

Hi All
I do not know of a specific diet,I would think any diet plan,out of the women's magazine,as long as they were balanced and met your kcal req.
At times like these the best thing that works for me is MONOTONY it probably sounds boring,but having the same foods for example cottage cheese and fruit for breakfast,turkey pita stuffed with veggies for lunch,and a very simple dinner,even takeout roast chicken and an easy side dish,breaks the cycle for me.
You might not want advice from me,my eating has not been out of control for more than 3 mos,yet I still engage in mad behavior.To deny my denial,I think of myself as a lab rat,My latest test Picture this:At a farmers market,surrounded by fruits and veggies,I consume a large prune danish and a large glass of sweetened tea,laze around the rest of the day with DH and the sunday papers.Convinced, mind you,BS will not go above 140.NOT.Apparently seeing is believing,in my book,180 said the meter,and I was back to my reality again.

[Mis]

Hello everyone,

I have not posted for a while cause I've been having a hard time with my diet and didn't want to share; however, my problems pale in light of yesterday's travesty.

I have to go on-line this morning to let you all know (I think you are mostly Americans), I am devastated by the tragedy that struck your country yesterday. My hearfelt sympathies to you and your fellow Americans, especially those who lost family and friends.

Linda

[jlea]

Hi everyone,

Thanks Linda, I am still in shock today.

Michelle, have you thought about using the Month of Meals guides from the ADA? I think it has menues for a whole month and you use them like they are or mix and match them. You can get them from the ADA website or maybe even a bookstore or online from Amazon. That might help you if everything is all planned out for you.

I haven't posted much lately. I was out of town, then sick for a week, and just have a lot going on.:) I'll try to be better.:)

[SIN NOMBRE]

Just stopped by to say hello,we are totally crazed here in NY.doing great on the diet as it is the only thing I can control.Hope all are well.

[AustiCat]

Hi. I'm relatively new to this forum. Please excuse me if I make a goof. I'm an overweight diabetic who likes to kid herself into believing I'm not really sick. ;) I'm begining to realize this might be a common reaction. I'm curious and I hope somone can explain something to me. I've always craved sweets and salt, but I notice that when my BS is high, I have an almost insatiable desire for more sugar. Does anyone else have this problem? I know, it's probably a 'duh' question but this is driving me crazy! Thanks.

AustiCat :wave:

[jlea]

Hi and welcome!

I think we all like to pretend that we are okay, and we can get by with it sometimes. But usually not for long.

I don't know that I've ever really craved more sugar when my BS is high, but I've always had the problem that nothing is ever too sweet for me....like when a person will take a bite of fudge or cake and say "oh that's too rich and sweet for me" and they put it down. I want to just slap them when they say that....:D ...first because they have the chance to eat these things without worrying about their blood sugar, and second because I've never found anything that was too sweet for me!:D :D I've always been like this, even before I found out I had diabetes.

Maybe some others can help you with this.:)

[baboo]

Hi AustiCat - This is what my diabetes counselor has told us about the high BS. When your BS is high, that means your carbs (sugars) are not getting into your little "energy cells", instead they are just floating around in your bloodstream (hence, the high BS when you test your blood). So, your little "energy cells" are "starving" so to speak, and that's why you crave even more sugar. Your body is not getting any fuel. One of the symptoms of diabetes is tremendous hunger, especially after just eating. That was one of the symptoms I had. I felt like I was starving even after I had just eaten a huge meal! My stomach would even growl!

We all have spells of "denialbetes"! :) This disease is no fun! But after a while you just accept it as a fact of your life. You can't cure it (at least not yet!) but you can control it. Let's hope someday there is a cure:D

Hang in there and keep posting. We are all there for you!

Barbi

[Poohbear10]

Hi Everyone:

Seems like forever since I posted here last. I am sooooo happy that September is finally here. I have been doing fine with the management of my blood sugar now that I am back on track and the kids are in school once again.

I started Weight Watchers and have lost 8 - 1/2 pounds in two weeks. I saw my Dietician on Friday and she says I have actually lost 11 1/2 since my last visit to her on July 13th. I am starting to notice a difference and feel so much better now that I am eating healthier and more frequently.

I was recently diagnosed with PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) and was told I may have a problem with losing weight since insulin resistance is one of the major drawbacks. I am happy to say that so far so good and I will hopefully continue to lose.

My thoughts are with everyone who is struggling and together with all of the support we give and receive on this forum we will hopefully win this battle.

Keep on posting::dizzy:

[Sebago]

Hi,

I have posted a couple of times in forums here, but havent settled into one place. I enjoy learning and sharing with others in the same boat, and hope to share some of my own experiences.

A little about myself: I am 43, very overweight, diabetic (Type II) for the last 6 years. Have alternated losing weight and keeping sugar levels down, and ignoring diabetes and dealing with depression over the last six years. Last July (7.9.01 to be exact) decided to start taking care of myself (actually started last Sept. by starting therapy and dealing with depression/emotional issues first - but that is another story :cool: Anyway, since July, I have lost about 45 lbs (hard to know exactly, high weight is on doctors scale, low on WW).

I just joined WW - but more for place to weigh in officially once a week. I do have a good scale at home, but do better if I stay off it. I am very disappointed with new point system at WW (old exchange system was much easier to stay on and stay in healthy food percentages - especially for diabetics - but it seems to work for some). I also find meetings frustrating - I understand food "tips" and recipes help those who cook, but seems kind of strange to spend an hour talking about nothing but food. The 2 leaders I have been to recently also rarely talk about exercize, and when they do, will preface talk with something cutesy, like "tonight we are going to talk about the evil E word..". Evil? Hard maybe, but thank god for exersize - even when I am not doing it, know it would be magic for me.

Anyway, exersize is fun for me and available in my daily schedule - for which I thank god. I know it is hard for some. I walk 50minutes (about 3.2miles) or swim about 2200M almost every day.

I track weight, inches, exersize - time/distance, and now blood sugar levels religiously. I am rather detail oriented (too much for some), but I find that SOMETHING improves every week and that helps keep motivation. Over 4 times losing lots of weight has taught me 2 things: inches seem to come off on weeks weight loss is slowest and walking (fast) takes of inches faster than running.

New for this round of weight loss is the testing BS. Doctor says just do 1 or 2 times a day, but I find doing it before all meals and 2 hours after several meals keeps me motivated - and any planned or unplanned cheating to only 1 meal (versus up to several days if 1nce a week weigh-in is only check).

Sorry this is so long - guess I want to get everything down in one post.

Later.

Laurel

[SIN NOMBRE]

Yes I learned that also at diabetes classes and have witnessed that behavior in my husband when his sugar is high.I think the Joslin web site is laid out well and you can get great info if you don't have time for classes.I am controlling BS with diet and exercise,for now.I have also lost 41lbs.which is a great side benefit.I too think the BS control should be the first order of business.I have always been endlessy curious about many things and had done a lot of reading about the disease when my husband developed it.My son.called last night,he knows me so well,he said "well I bet you were a little bored with it,You knew it all" I replied,"Yes I am an old know-it-all" and we had a good laugh.Actually I have a lot to learn,I never realized it was such an individual thing.The hardest part for me,is timing my meals.For a long while before I was diagnosed,I was eating at odd times only when I felt like it.I was practicing portion control and losing weight.Frequent BS monitoring is helping me stay on track with the carbs(I actually love carb counting,as it so precise)I am still bad in the am when I have no appetite.I have compromised right now with 2 small breakfasts a couple hours apart.I will try to do better.
I know what you mean about meetings,I have my own pet peeves about them.I skipped September alltogether.They are running a special,at least till early October so I will go back soon.I am pretty bad about attendance anyway.Even though I am long past my 10%,I haven't even got my reward for that yet.This is no fault of WW,I attend different meetings,according to my mood,so it is hard for them to keep track of me.I will probably go to a few meetings in a row,at my original center and card and get it all tidied up next month.
The past few weeks have been very trying for all of us.I think the Prez words were very prophetic when he said "This is a struggle for culture"We will all be called on to make changes,and I hope being healthier will help me rise to the challenge.Have a good week.

[Sebago]

Hi AustiCat,

Meant to put this in my first post - but I did have the real high sugar cravings when my sugar was high. Someone mentioned being real hungry even right after eating a large meal - I remember that feeling. Now I can tell when my sugar is real low (not hypo - havent dealt with that at all yet), because I get really hungry (I mean really, not just the psycological hunger). I think the difference is that for this hunger, a healthy low carb or simple fruit snack satisfies.

Sin Nombre (sp?) - keep up the good work. Thanks for responding. Glad to know I am not the only non-compliant WW member :lol:

[luzcious]

Hi Sebago,

I'm like you and Sin Nombre, I have complaints of the new WW plan. Don't get me wrong, it does work for some. I much prefer the Selection plan. I lost 33 lbs on it 6 years ago. I have the info close at hand, but just can't find the motivation. I'm still in "denialbetes", like baboo says! :) It's getting worse. I'm really beating myself up. I just can't figure out what it's going to take for me to get past it. I get so mad at myself, and all that does it cause me to eat. Sorry for the negativity, I know this is a great group with successful people, and I don't want to rain on anyone's parade.

Take care everyone.
:wave:

[baboo]

Hi All - don't know about the rest of you, but since they switched servers I've had trouble getting in and logging on! Thank goodness I have all my screen names and passwords written down - haha!

Things are good for me. Went to the endo last week. My BS is good - always in the 80's and 90's - no problems there. I'm down to 8 units a day on the Humalog - trying very slowly to wean myself off! My BP was bad though, 159/110!!! Yikes!! So now I am on 4 different meds for the BP. The pharmacist at Walgreens called me at home - concerned that I was taking so many - wanted to know if the doctor knew - heck, he was the one who prescribed them - duh!!! I am definitely Type A personality!:lol:

Had a great treat this weekend! Janet and hubby came to meet me in Texas and we had fun! We are twins separated at birth! It was fantastic to meet someone I met here on the chat board - she has been a big inspiration and a great help to me. Janet, I am so happy that I met you here and glad that you made the trip to meet me!

I'm craving chocolate again!! It seems to happen when I get stressed and last week at work was stressful! Plus I'm having a weird "friendship" with a guy who I'm not sure is playing with a full deck! :dizzy: we are just friends, but he has strange ideas about friendship and is very immature, but aren't most men?

Well, hope everyone has a great week. Keep those BS down!

Barbi

[jlea]

Barbi,

Thank you for the kind words! We had a great time too.:)

My blood sugar is leveling out again. I'm going to enjoy it while it lasts. The way it has been swinging the last few months I'm afraid to hope that it will last. I'm back to 1 shot a day this week too.

I've got the muchies today and have been fighting the urge to eat, since I had my saltines and low fat peanut butter earlier. I'm trying to keep in the lower end of my point range, so I cooked a 1 pound bag of broccoli and cauliflower and ate almost the whole bag! But....it's 0 points. I didn't eat it all at one time, but divided it in half and ate a bowl an hour apart.:lol: It helped.