Well, still struggling with the glucose control sans Metformin. What kills me is the fasting - start the day so high and add to it with breakfast and just hope it comes back down enough by lunch that I'm not so hesitant to eat. But don't worry, i do eat, even though I may be hesitant. Funny thing with Diabetes - the food raises the glucose but you have to eat it anyway to keep the glucose on an even keel overall.
But I also hate to think what this is doing to my A1c so if things don't get better in a couple of weeks I will make an appointment to go in and talk to my doctor about trying something different. And then just hope whatever we try doesn't have such adverse side effects.
Until then my logbook is just acting so friendly - greeting me with "high" "high" high" all the time!
Showing posts with label life in general. Show all posts
Showing posts with label life in general. Show all posts
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
#Diabetes - Day 220
Well, it's kinda depressing to see the BG numbers starting to reflect my having come off of Metformin. My good sense knew there was a very high probability this would happen, but my questionable sense held onto the hope that we actually caught my Diabetes and got it in control quickly enough that maybe my body would have forgotten that it was suppose to have Diabetes. I mean, I've seen people post things in discussion boards to the effect of "use to have Diabetes" or "once had" and such as that. And, every time I would see this I thought to myself that this/these person/people are delusional. All of the medical information I have read says that there is NO cure for Diabetes. That's the part my good sense was always referring back to. But I guess my questionable sense kept pushing it's naive wonderings (yeah, that may be one of my made up word) in there by saying that maybe, just maybe that really only applies to Type 1 Diabetes since that seems to actually relate more to a non-functioning pancreas whereas Type 2 Diabetes seems to relate more to an insulin resistance (and I will disclaimer here: I AM NOT A DOCTOR, REGISTERED DIETITIAN OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER. THAT STATEMENT IS SIMPLY MY THOUGHTS AND CONCLUSIONS, MISALIGHNED OR NOT, REGARDING THE SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN T1 & T2 DIABETES). But anyway, my questionable sense kept saying that maybe, just maybe, if caught early enough, and quickly gotten in control, T2 could actually reverse and the body's cell would actually accept and use insulin correctly again.
Well, I reduced my Metformin last Monday to 500mg per day. I took the last 500mg dose Sunday morning. I am not taking any Metformin at this time . . . and my BG numbers are starting to show it.
Good Sense knew this was a possibility, so why does it make me feel depressed when I see it in my meter? I sure wish Questionable Sense would not be so naughty!!
Well, I reduced my Metformin last Monday to 500mg per day. I took the last 500mg dose Sunday morning. I am not taking any Metformin at this time . . . and my BG numbers are starting to show it.
Good Sense knew this was a possibility, so why does it make me feel depressed when I see it in my meter? I sure wish Questionable Sense would not be so naughty!!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
#Diabetes - Researchers Identify New Target for Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes and Prediabetes
Released: 8/22/2011 12:45 PM EDT
Source: Joslin Diabetes Center
Newswise — BOSTON — Aug. 22, 2011 — Researchers at the Joslin Diabetes Center have shown that an enzyme found in the mitochondria of cells is decreased in the skeletal muscle of those with type 2 diabetes, a finding that could lead to the development of drugs to boost the activity of this enzyme in an effort to fight the disease.
A paper in published online today in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, showed that the enzyme, Sirt3, is decreased in the skeletal muscle of humans and animals with diabetes by at least half, compared to those without diabetes and that this may contribute to development of insulin resistance, one of the earliest manifestations of the disease. Sirt3 is found in the mitochondria, the power producers of cells that convert energy into usable forms.
“Ours is perhaps the first study to understand what is going wrong in the mitochondria of those with diabetes,” said senior author C. Ronald Kahn, M.D., Head of the Joslin Section on Integrative Physiology and Metabolism and the Mary K. Iacocca Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. “Many studies have shown that the mitochondria don’t work well in those with diabetes. This points to a cause of why they don’t work well.”
Dr. Kahn said the study sought to look at how decreased Sirt3 levels might affect the metabolism of cells, particularly how it could affect insulin action in cells. “We know that one of the hallmarks of early diabetes is insulin resistance in muscle, but we didn’t know what caused it,” he said.
He said the study showed that when Sirt3 levels are low, as they are in the case of diabetes, the mitochondria of the cells are not as efficient in energy metabolism as they should be.
When the mitochondria become inefficient, they generate what are known as reactive oxygen species (ROS), chemically reactive molecules containing oxygen, which create insulin resistance in the muscles, he said.
“This is the first time this has been shown,” Dr. Kahn said.
The goal for the future will be to find ways to restore levels of Sirt3 or increase the activity of the existing Sirt3, perhaps with a drug, in a bid to improve insulin resistance in the muscle and improve muscle metabolism, he said.
“It is a new target,” he said.
Dr. Kahn noted that this study is one of the first demonstrations of a single defect that could affect mitochondrial metabolism and insulin signaling in the muscle.
“In further studies we will try to understand what proteins Sirt3 acts on,” he said.
He noted that one of the earliest hallmarks of diabetes is insulin resistance in the skeletal muscle. As a result, a drug to boost Sirt3 levels could be useful in the treatment of prediabetes or in those newly diagnosed with the disease, he said.
“Agents which increase Sirt3 activity could, therefore, potentially reverse at least some of the adverse effects of type 2 diabetes,” the paper concludes.
Co-authors included Enxuan Jing, lead author, as well as Brice Emanuelli, Jeremie Boucher and Kevin Lee, all of Joslin; Matthew D. Hirschey and Eric M. Verdin, both of Gladstone Institute of Virology and Immunology and the University of California, San Francisco; and David Lombard, formerly of the Department of Genetics at Harvard Medical School and currently at the Department of Pathology and Institute of Gerontology at the University of Michigan.
Dr. Verdin noted that by “uncovering the multi-faceted role of SIRT3, we are laying important groundwork to better combat this widespread disease at the cellular level.”
The study was supported by research grants to Kahn and Verdin as well as a grant from the Ellison Foundation and the Mary K. Iacocca Professorship. The study also received support from the Joslin DERC cores laboratories.
Source: Joslin Diabetes Center
Newswise — BOSTON — Aug. 22, 2011 — Researchers at the Joslin Diabetes Center have shown that an enzyme found in the mitochondria of cells is decreased in the skeletal muscle of those with type 2 diabetes, a finding that could lead to the development of drugs to boost the activity of this enzyme in an effort to fight the disease.
A paper in published online today in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, showed that the enzyme, Sirt3, is decreased in the skeletal muscle of humans and animals with diabetes by at least half, compared to those without diabetes and that this may contribute to development of insulin resistance, one of the earliest manifestations of the disease. Sirt3 is found in the mitochondria, the power producers of cells that convert energy into usable forms.
“Ours is perhaps the first study to understand what is going wrong in the mitochondria of those with diabetes,” said senior author C. Ronald Kahn, M.D., Head of the Joslin Section on Integrative Physiology and Metabolism and the Mary K. Iacocca Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. “Many studies have shown that the mitochondria don’t work well in those with diabetes. This points to a cause of why they don’t work well.”
Dr. Kahn said the study sought to look at how decreased Sirt3 levels might affect the metabolism of cells, particularly how it could affect insulin action in cells. “We know that one of the hallmarks of early diabetes is insulin resistance in muscle, but we didn’t know what caused it,” he said.
He said the study showed that when Sirt3 levels are low, as they are in the case of diabetes, the mitochondria of the cells are not as efficient in energy metabolism as they should be.
When the mitochondria become inefficient, they generate what are known as reactive oxygen species (ROS), chemically reactive molecules containing oxygen, which create insulin resistance in the muscles, he said.
“This is the first time this has been shown,” Dr. Kahn said.
The goal for the future will be to find ways to restore levels of Sirt3 or increase the activity of the existing Sirt3, perhaps with a drug, in a bid to improve insulin resistance in the muscle and improve muscle metabolism, he said.
“It is a new target,” he said.
Dr. Kahn noted that this study is one of the first demonstrations of a single defect that could affect mitochondrial metabolism and insulin signaling in the muscle.
“In further studies we will try to understand what proteins Sirt3 acts on,” he said.
He noted that one of the earliest hallmarks of diabetes is insulin resistance in the skeletal muscle. As a result, a drug to boost Sirt3 levels could be useful in the treatment of prediabetes or in those newly diagnosed with the disease, he said.
“Agents which increase Sirt3 activity could, therefore, potentially reverse at least some of the adverse effects of type 2 diabetes,” the paper concludes.
Co-authors included Enxuan Jing, lead author, as well as Brice Emanuelli, Jeremie Boucher and Kevin Lee, all of Joslin; Matthew D. Hirschey and Eric M. Verdin, both of Gladstone Institute of Virology and Immunology and the University of California, San Francisco; and David Lombard, formerly of the Department of Genetics at Harvard Medical School and currently at the Department of Pathology and Institute of Gerontology at the University of Michigan.
Dr. Verdin noted that by “uncovering the multi-faceted role of SIRT3, we are laying important groundwork to better combat this widespread disease at the cellular level.”
The study was supported by research grants to Kahn and Verdin as well as a grant from the Ellison Foundation and the Mary K. Iacocca Professorship. The study also received support from the Joslin DERC cores laboratories.
Friday, August 19, 2011
#Diabetes - Day 215
I have been having an awful lot of hair loss since being put on Metformin. Now, none of the literature that comes with Metformin says hair loss is a side effect, but if you search "Metformin and Hair Loss" on the internet you will finds tons of discussion boards where many many people have this same complaint.
I pretty much decided that if I have to choose between my health or my vanity, I will go with my health. If I lose all my hair I will just buy a wig and move on. Heck, I could buy two wigs and have fun with the second one by going completely different than what my hair color really is.
Well, that's all well and good, but there is another issue with this massive hair loss . . . I can no longer go in the kitchen and prepare a meal without constantly removing hair as it visibly drops off my head. It is very annoying. And even though hubby and I both know it is clean hair, really, who wants o pull hair out of their food - clean or not?!?!?
I thought I would have to get a hair turban and before going into the kitchen just wrap my head in a turban and change to a clean shirt, but I also thought my BG numbers are all so good - some almost too good, like a BG89 an hour and a half after lunch on one occasion - that I thought I would just call my doctor and see about getting off the Metformin for a while and see if the hair loss backs off.
Doctor's office of course suggested perhaps it is the thyroid and not the Metformin. Lets check that first. No problem - all it requires is a vial of my blood and a little time out of my afternoon to run down there.
Done.
And, as a bonus, when I was at the doctors office he had the front desk send me up for a quick look at me and another weight check (lost another 3 pounds - not super great, but considering I had seriously neglected my exercise schedule during the summer while grand-kids were in and out (my justification - they came and went on different days so I was thrown off the "Monday - Friday then a weekend" concept and half the time I wasn't sure what day of the week it was.)). Anyway, I digress, back to the doctors office . . .
He agreed that my number control had been very good and that I could come off the Metformin and we would see how that went. (Day 211)
Fast forward to yesterday afternoon - The nurse called to tell me that the thyroid test was negative. She said they look for a number between 0 and 4 and my test was a 2 - smack dab in the middle.
Now that thyroid is ruled out the only culprit left is the Metformin. Monday I reduced my daily dosage from 1000mg per day to 500mg per day. I have about 10 tablets left in this prescription and as soon as these run out I will be down to no Metformin at all.
I realize it took a few months to build up the Metformin to the level that caused the hair loss, so likewise it will take a while for the hair loss to return to what would be (at least in my opinion) normal.
Now the bigger task at hand to to be even more vigilant in my diet & exercise adherence to be sure I keep my glucose numbers in check. I really want to be able to keep this in control without going back on Metformin, or any meds, for as long as possible. *crosses fingers*
I pretty much decided that if I have to choose between my health or my vanity, I will go with my health. If I lose all my hair I will just buy a wig and move on. Heck, I could buy two wigs and have fun with the second one by going completely different than what my hair color really is.
Well, that's all well and good, but there is another issue with this massive hair loss . . . I can no longer go in the kitchen and prepare a meal without constantly removing hair as it visibly drops off my head. It is very annoying. And even though hubby and I both know it is clean hair, really, who wants o pull hair out of their food - clean or not?!?!?
I thought I would have to get a hair turban and before going into the kitchen just wrap my head in a turban and change to a clean shirt, but I also thought my BG numbers are all so good - some almost too good, like a BG89 an hour and a half after lunch on one occasion - that I thought I would just call my doctor and see about getting off the Metformin for a while and see if the hair loss backs off.
Doctor's office of course suggested perhaps it is the thyroid and not the Metformin. Lets check that first. No problem - all it requires is a vial of my blood and a little time out of my afternoon to run down there.
Done.
And, as a bonus, when I was at the doctors office he had the front desk send me up for a quick look at me and another weight check (lost another 3 pounds - not super great, but considering I had seriously neglected my exercise schedule during the summer while grand-kids were in and out (my justification - they came and went on different days so I was thrown off the "Monday - Friday then a weekend" concept and half the time I wasn't sure what day of the week it was.)). Anyway, I digress, back to the doctors office . . .
He agreed that my number control had been very good and that I could come off the Metformin and we would see how that went. (Day 211)
Fast forward to yesterday afternoon - The nurse called to tell me that the thyroid test was negative. She said they look for a number between 0 and 4 and my test was a 2 - smack dab in the middle.
Now that thyroid is ruled out the only culprit left is the Metformin. Monday I reduced my daily dosage from 1000mg per day to 500mg per day. I have about 10 tablets left in this prescription and as soon as these run out I will be down to no Metformin at all.
I realize it took a few months to build up the Metformin to the level that caused the hair loss, so likewise it will take a while for the hair loss to return to what would be (at least in my opinion) normal.
Now the bigger task at hand to to be even more vigilant in my diet & exercise adherence to be sure I keep my glucose numbers in check. I really want to be able to keep this in control without going back on Metformin, or any meds, for as long as possible. *crosses fingers*
Saturday, July 16, 2011
12 Common #Diabetes Myths Debunked
12 Common Diabetes Myths Debunked ~ By Sarah Henry, Caring.com
(source: Health.msn.com)
Myth #1: People with diabetes can't eat anything sweet.
Relax—despite what you may have heard, a piece of cake or a couple of cookies won't cause a health crisis. In fact, sweets can be eaten in moderation by people with type 2 diabetes, if eaten as part of a healthy meal plan and combined with exercise, according to the American Diabetes Association.
Still, while avoiding sweet treats isn't mandatory, limiting them is. Sweets often contain not only empty calories but a lot of sugar, a carbohydrate that raises glucose levels considerably. For better glucose control, diabetics should have dessert only after a low-carb meal. It's important to eat that chicken breast, broccoli, and salad before dishing into some ice cream.
Myth #2: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes.
No, chocaholics aren't destined to develop diabetes. The disease is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. And the high level of sugar in someone's bloodstream is not the same thing as the refined stuff you buy in bags from the supermarket. That said, being overweight can increase the risk for developing type 2 diabetes, and eating a lot of sugar can pack on the pounds. If your family has a history of diabetes, eating healthfully and exercising regularly is recommended to keep everyone's weight in check. For those who already have diabetes, those same things will help them manage the disease.
Myth #3: People with diabetes must eat a special diet.
A healthy diet for someone with diabetes is the same as a healthy diet for anyone else. How does that look? A wholesome meal plan is based on whole-grain foods, lean protein, vegetables, and fruit. Such a diet is low in fat (particularly saturated and trans fat), salt, and simple sugars. So-called diabetic foods offer no special benefits. The best bet is to skip these costly commercial offerings and head for the produce aisle instead.
Myth #4: You can catch diabetes from someone else.
Diabetes is not an infectious or contagious disease. Scientists don't know for sure exactly what causes the disorder, but it can't be caught from another person, like a cold or the flu. There, does, however, appear to be a genetic link with type 2 diabetes: If a family member has the condition, you're at higher risk for the disease.
Myth #5: There's only one dangerous kind of diabetes.
Not so. Diabetes refers to a group of diseases—all of which require serious attention—that have in common the body's inability to properly convert glucose from food into energy, leading to a high level of sugar in the blood. The main kinds include type 1 (formerly known as juvenile-onset diabetes), type 2 (once called adult-onset diabetes), and gestational (which occurs only during pregnancy). The suspected causes differ for each type, but managing any type of diabetes requires balancing food, physical activity, and, if needed, medications. And while people with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin every day for their entire lives, type 2 diabetes is no less of a concern, because ignoring it could lead to devastating complications such as blindness, heart attack, and stroke.
Myth #6: Only people with diabetes need insulin.
Everybody needs insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows the body to convert food into energy for activity. People who don't have diabetes make and use the right amount of this chemical. People with diabetes either don't make any insulin, don't make enough, or can't use the insulin they make properly. If you or someone you're caring for has type 2 diabetes, it's important to balance food, activity, and—in some cases—medications, which may include insulin injections or an insulin pump (insulin isn't available in pill form), to get the necessary amount of this essential hormone. And to dispense with another myth in this area: Insulin is a tool to manage diabetes, not a cure.
Myth #7: Nothing can be done to prevent diabetes complications.
Nothing could be further from the truth. Studies show that diabetes-related complications can be prevented or delayed by following a self-care treatment plan that keeps blood sugar levels under control and by getting regular medical checkups. Many people with type 2 diabetes also have high blood pressure and cholesterol. Keeping these twin conditions in check as well can also go a long way toward warding off complications such as nerve damage and kidney failure.
Myth #8: Only overweight people get diabetes.
Here's the skinny on this one: Many people who have type 2 diabetes carry excess pounds, and some are obese, but many elderly people with the condition aren't particularly overweight. If you or the person you're caring for needs to shed some weight, it may be motivating to learn that even modest weight loss through healthier eating and increased activity can help keep long-term complications at bay. But diabetes doesn't discriminate: Even Slim Jims can succumb to the disease.
Myth #9: People with diabetes shouldn't exercise.
The exact opposite is true: Exercise is a key component of any diabetes treatment plan, as it helps diabetics better use insulin and lower or maintain weight. Alas, exercise is often the most overlooked weapon in the arsenal against this disease, underestimated by both patients and care providers. If the person in your care hasn't been active in a long time, is overweight, or has other medical conditions or mobility issues, then it's wise to get his or her main diabetes care provider's green light before he or she embarks on an exercise regimen. But barring severe disability or serious complications, physical activity of some sort—and this doesn't have to mean working out at a gym—should be done regularly by everyone with diabetes, regardless of age. You might encourage the person you're caring for to take walks with you, for instance.
Myth #10: People who follow their treatment plan never have high blood sugar readings.
It's too bad this myth isn't true. Unfortunately, someone with diabetes may experience the odd stubbornly high reading even if he's diligently following all his doctors' orders. Type 2 diabetes isn't an easy disease to manage—and as we age, our bodies are constantly changing, as is our reaction to stress, infections, illness, medications, exercise, and diet. Little wonder, then, that sometimes our blood sugar doesn't cooperate.
It's best to praise a diabetic's hard work when he does hit his recommended range, but don't let an occasional high reading give him the excuse to throw in the towel. If he keeps on following his treatment plan, he'll find that, overall, his glucose control is on target.
Myth #11: It's possible to have "just a touch" or "a little" diabetes.
Nope, you either have type 2 diabetes or you don't—period. And if you have the disease, you need to pay attention to it. Even if diet and exercise changes keep the disease in check and you don't need oral medications or insulin injections, the condition still demands that you follow a self-management treatment plan that includes glucose monitoring and making careful lifestyle choices.
Myth #12: People diagnosed with diabetes are doomed.
Far from it. While it's true that diabetes is a long-term disease without a cure and that diabetics might experience some pretty nasty complications if their blood sugar levels are allowed to soar sky-high for years, they can avoid that fate.
Many people can and do lead busy, active, spontaneous lives while also managing their type 2 diabetes. A diabetes diagnosis alone doesn't rule out travel, having fun, or partaking in many common pastimes or pursuits. Simply put, they must follow their treatment regimen, plan ahead, and take extra precautions when necessary, such as checking blood sugar more often if they're traveling across the country, or packing the right foods if they're taking a long car trip. With a little help and support from family or friends and the assistance of a good healthcare team, it's possible to live a full and fulfilling life even with a diabetes diagnosis.
(source: Health.msn.com)
Myth #1: People with diabetes can't eat anything sweet.
Relax—despite what you may have heard, a piece of cake or a couple of cookies won't cause a health crisis. In fact, sweets can be eaten in moderation by people with type 2 diabetes, if eaten as part of a healthy meal plan and combined with exercise, according to the American Diabetes Association.
Still, while avoiding sweet treats isn't mandatory, limiting them is. Sweets often contain not only empty calories but a lot of sugar, a carbohydrate that raises glucose levels considerably. For better glucose control, diabetics should have dessert only after a low-carb meal. It's important to eat that chicken breast, broccoli, and salad before dishing into some ice cream.
Myth #2: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes.
No, chocaholics aren't destined to develop diabetes. The disease is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. And the high level of sugar in someone's bloodstream is not the same thing as the refined stuff you buy in bags from the supermarket. That said, being overweight can increase the risk for developing type 2 diabetes, and eating a lot of sugar can pack on the pounds. If your family has a history of diabetes, eating healthfully and exercising regularly is recommended to keep everyone's weight in check. For those who already have diabetes, those same things will help them manage the disease.
Myth #3: People with diabetes must eat a special diet.
A healthy diet for someone with diabetes is the same as a healthy diet for anyone else. How does that look? A wholesome meal plan is based on whole-grain foods, lean protein, vegetables, and fruit. Such a diet is low in fat (particularly saturated and trans fat), salt, and simple sugars. So-called diabetic foods offer no special benefits. The best bet is to skip these costly commercial offerings and head for the produce aisle instead.
Myth #4: You can catch diabetes from someone else.
Diabetes is not an infectious or contagious disease. Scientists don't know for sure exactly what causes the disorder, but it can't be caught from another person, like a cold or the flu. There, does, however, appear to be a genetic link with type 2 diabetes: If a family member has the condition, you're at higher risk for the disease.
Myth #5: There's only one dangerous kind of diabetes.
Not so. Diabetes refers to a group of diseases—all of which require serious attention—that have in common the body's inability to properly convert glucose from food into energy, leading to a high level of sugar in the blood. The main kinds include type 1 (formerly known as juvenile-onset diabetes), type 2 (once called adult-onset diabetes), and gestational (which occurs only during pregnancy). The suspected causes differ for each type, but managing any type of diabetes requires balancing food, physical activity, and, if needed, medications. And while people with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin every day for their entire lives, type 2 diabetes is no less of a concern, because ignoring it could lead to devastating complications such as blindness, heart attack, and stroke.
Myth #6: Only people with diabetes need insulin.
Everybody needs insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows the body to convert food into energy for activity. People who don't have diabetes make and use the right amount of this chemical. People with diabetes either don't make any insulin, don't make enough, or can't use the insulin they make properly. If you or someone you're caring for has type 2 diabetes, it's important to balance food, activity, and—in some cases—medications, which may include insulin injections or an insulin pump (insulin isn't available in pill form), to get the necessary amount of this essential hormone. And to dispense with another myth in this area: Insulin is a tool to manage diabetes, not a cure.
Myth #7: Nothing can be done to prevent diabetes complications.
Nothing could be further from the truth. Studies show that diabetes-related complications can be prevented or delayed by following a self-care treatment plan that keeps blood sugar levels under control and by getting regular medical checkups. Many people with type 2 diabetes also have high blood pressure and cholesterol. Keeping these twin conditions in check as well can also go a long way toward warding off complications such as nerve damage and kidney failure.
Myth #8: Only overweight people get diabetes.
Here's the skinny on this one: Many people who have type 2 diabetes carry excess pounds, and some are obese, but many elderly people with the condition aren't particularly overweight. If you or the person you're caring for needs to shed some weight, it may be motivating to learn that even modest weight loss through healthier eating and increased activity can help keep long-term complications at bay. But diabetes doesn't discriminate: Even Slim Jims can succumb to the disease.
Myth #9: People with diabetes shouldn't exercise.
The exact opposite is true: Exercise is a key component of any diabetes treatment plan, as it helps diabetics better use insulin and lower or maintain weight. Alas, exercise is often the most overlooked weapon in the arsenal against this disease, underestimated by both patients and care providers. If the person in your care hasn't been active in a long time, is overweight, or has other medical conditions or mobility issues, then it's wise to get his or her main diabetes care provider's green light before he or she embarks on an exercise regimen. But barring severe disability or serious complications, physical activity of some sort—and this doesn't have to mean working out at a gym—should be done regularly by everyone with diabetes, regardless of age. You might encourage the person you're caring for to take walks with you, for instance.
Myth #10: People who follow their treatment plan never have high blood sugar readings.
It's too bad this myth isn't true. Unfortunately, someone with diabetes may experience the odd stubbornly high reading even if he's diligently following all his doctors' orders. Type 2 diabetes isn't an easy disease to manage—and as we age, our bodies are constantly changing, as is our reaction to stress, infections, illness, medications, exercise, and diet. Little wonder, then, that sometimes our blood sugar doesn't cooperate.
It's best to praise a diabetic's hard work when he does hit his recommended range, but don't let an occasional high reading give him the excuse to throw in the towel. If he keeps on following his treatment plan, he'll find that, overall, his glucose control is on target.
Myth #11: It's possible to have "just a touch" or "a little" diabetes.
Nope, you either have type 2 diabetes or you don't—period. And if you have the disease, you need to pay attention to it. Even if diet and exercise changes keep the disease in check and you don't need oral medications or insulin injections, the condition still demands that you follow a self-management treatment plan that includes glucose monitoring and making careful lifestyle choices.
Myth #12: People diagnosed with diabetes are doomed.
Far from it. While it's true that diabetes is a long-term disease without a cure and that diabetics might experience some pretty nasty complications if their blood sugar levels are allowed to soar sky-high for years, they can avoid that fate.
Many people can and do lead busy, active, spontaneous lives while also managing their type 2 diabetes. A diabetes diagnosis alone doesn't rule out travel, having fun, or partaking in many common pastimes or pursuits. Simply put, they must follow their treatment regimen, plan ahead, and take extra precautions when necessary, such as checking blood sugar more often if they're traveling across the country, or packing the right foods if they're taking a long car trip. With a little help and support from family or friends and the assistance of a good healthcare team, it's possible to live a full and fulfilling life even with a diabetes diagnosis.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Day 175 Week 25
Monday, July 11, 2011, 11:30 a.m.
Nothing new going on. It seems the roller coaster ride of the new diagnosis of Diabetes has reached a level spot with a lot less ups and downs. Along with that there is just hardly anything to chat about so I've figure less often blog posts will suffice.
So, nothing new to report.
Nothing new going on. It seems the roller coaster ride of the new diagnosis of Diabetes has reached a level spot with a lot less ups and downs. Along with that there is just hardly anything to chat about so I've figure less often blog posts will suffice.
So, nothing new to report.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Day 171
7:45 p.m.
Haven't posted in a few day - there really has been nothing going on. All my numbers are pretty good. Just doing my best to stay on track with the right diet and some exercise. Seems to be a good plan so far. :)
Haven't posted in a few day - there really has been nothing going on. All my numbers are pretty good. Just doing my best to stay on track with the right diet and some exercise. Seems to be a good plan so far. :)
Saturday, June 25, 2011
#Diabetes Day 159
8:45 p.m.
Good day so far - fasting was 102 and I just tested post-supper and had 124 - kinda mixed on my feelings regarding that result since we went out for Mexican and I actually had 3 small margaritas. As I understand it, alcohol can have a negative impact on blood sugar, and in some people that could be a bad thing. But since I have never had any issues with hypoglycemic episodes overnight, I want to assume I am okay. I will test again before bed and see where I am then.
As for Alcohol and Diabetes, here is what the ADA says:
http://www.diabetes.org/food-and-fitness/food/what-can-i-eat/alcohol.html
And, here is what the WebMD says:
http://diabetes.webmd.com/drinking-alcohol
And, here is what they say on dLife:
http://www.dlife.com/diabetes/lifestyle/diabetes_alcohol/about-diabetes-and-alcohol
I had 3, which were probably about 5 oz. each, one over the limit set by these standards. But I feel that at this time I have such a tight rein on my numbers that I can afford to go one over every now and again. Outside of an occasion such as tonight was I generally only consume one 12oz margarita a month. So i'm okay with a splurge every now and then :D
http://www.dlife.com/diabetes/lifestyle/diabetes_alcohol/about-diabetes-and-alcohol
Good day so far - fasting was 102 and I just tested post-supper and had 124 - kinda mixed on my feelings regarding that result since we went out for Mexican and I actually had 3 small margaritas. As I understand it, alcohol can have a negative impact on blood sugar, and in some people that could be a bad thing. But since I have never had any issues with hypoglycemic episodes overnight, I want to assume I am okay. I will test again before bed and see where I am then.
As for Alcohol and Diabetes, here is what the ADA says:
http://www.diabetes.org/food-and-fitness/food/what-can-i-eat/alcohol.html
And, here is what the WebMD says:
http://diabetes.webmd.com/drinking-alcohol
And, here is what they say on dLife:
http://www.dlife.com/diabetes/lifestyle/diabetes_alcohol/about-diabetes-and-alcohol
I had 3, which were probably about 5 oz. each, one over the limit set by these standards. But I feel that at this time I have such a tight rein on my numbers that I can afford to go one over every now and again. Outside of an occasion such as tonight was I generally only consume one 12oz margarita a month. So i'm okay with a splurge every now and then :D
http://www.dlife.com/diabetes/lifestyle/diabetes_alcohol/about-diabetes-and-alcohol
Friday, June 24, 2011
#Diabetes Day 158
3:40 p.m.
Wish I had remembered to test my fasting number today. Ever since my doctor said it was not necessary to test my fasting every day I seem to miss that test in my random daily test more often than any other daily random. Well, actually, I forget a lot of them and end up testing post-supper more often than not. So, anyway, no number for today - yet, I hope yet. I hope I remember to test post supper.
Wish I had remembered to test my fasting number today. Ever since my doctor said it was not necessary to test my fasting every day I seem to miss that test in my random daily test more often than any other daily random. Well, actually, I forget a lot of them and end up testing post-supper more often than not. So, anyway, no number for today - yet, I hope yet. I hope I remember to test post supper.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
#Diabetes Day 156
8:45 p.m.
Good Supper - baked bean, slaw, corn and broccoli - BG 130 :)
I'm really happy today. At our house my dear hubby does the grocery shopping - that is something that we slowly morphed into over 30+ years of marriage. And it works well, for the most part. But then there are those other times. Most of you probably know those times. The ones where a person in our life, well, okay, admittedly, primarily the men in our lives don't actually engage full brain energy in decision making. Such has been the case the last few weeks as I put sugar-free ice cream on the grocery list.
I told Hubby Dear that a friend had posted on facebook that Wal-Mart had their own brand that was sugar-free and fat-free and actually tasted good. But alas, hubby brought no ice cream home for me. He said they didn't have any Wal-mart brand ice cream that was both sugar-free and fat-free.
The next week I asked him to look for sugar-free ice cream again - any brand. No ice cream.
Last week I asked if he was looking just for the Wal-Mart brand or any and he said any. But still no ice cream.
Today he said he was going to go to Wal-Mart and I asked him to look for sugar-free ice cream again. He said he looks every time but that I was welcome to go with him and see for myself. So I did go.
I came home with two different half gallons and was tempted to buy a couple of other flavors . . . ALL sugar free ice cream.
So how is it that I now have sugar-free ice cream in the freezer that has not been there for the last few weeks? Well, it's because the carton reads "No Sugar Added" as opposed to "Sugar-Free". I never requested "No Sugar Added" ice cream - I requested "Sugar-free" ice cream.
I'm also proud of the fact that i didn't clobber him upside the head with a box of Edy's Fruit Pops that I also nabbed a few boxes of.
ummm . . . yeah, frozen treats are a weakness of mine.
Good Supper - baked bean, slaw, corn and broccoli - BG 130 :)
I'm really happy today. At our house my dear hubby does the grocery shopping - that is something that we slowly morphed into over 30+ years of marriage. And it works well, for the most part. But then there are those other times. Most of you probably know those times. The ones where a person in our life, well, okay, admittedly, primarily the men in our lives don't actually engage full brain energy in decision making. Such has been the case the last few weeks as I put sugar-free ice cream on the grocery list.
I told Hubby Dear that a friend had posted on facebook that Wal-Mart had their own brand that was sugar-free and fat-free and actually tasted good. But alas, hubby brought no ice cream home for me. He said they didn't have any Wal-mart brand ice cream that was both sugar-free and fat-free.
The next week I asked him to look for sugar-free ice cream again - any brand. No ice cream.
Last week I asked if he was looking just for the Wal-Mart brand or any and he said any. But still no ice cream.
Today he said he was going to go to Wal-Mart and I asked him to look for sugar-free ice cream again. He said he looks every time but that I was welcome to go with him and see for myself. So I did go.
I came home with two different half gallons and was tempted to buy a couple of other flavors . . . ALL sugar free ice cream.
So how is it that I now have sugar-free ice cream in the freezer that has not been there for the last few weeks? Well, it's because the carton reads "No Sugar Added" as opposed to "Sugar-Free". I never requested "No Sugar Added" ice cream - I requested "Sugar-free" ice cream.
I'm also proud of the fact that i didn't clobber him upside the head with a box of Edy's Fruit Pops that I also nabbed a few boxes of.
ummm . . . yeah, frozen treats are a weakness of mine.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
#Diabetes Day 149
5:50 p.m.
Number we good after lunch - 121 - I had Salami and American Cheese with Honey Mustard on Italian bread. I almost skipped lunch altogether but good sense did prevail. My stomach got upset after supper last night and was is still not real happy today. Nothing coming out either end but just a feeling of something like indigestion or something. And before lunch it was more like pinching pains in my stomach. I still cast a suspicious eye at supper even though neither of the other two people who ate the same thing have had any issues. And then again, I have had stomach problems for many years, but those seemed to have been better since I started taking Omeprezol daily. And here it is almost supper time again and my stomach is still being moody with me. :( ugh.
Number we good after lunch - 121 - I had Salami and American Cheese with Honey Mustard on Italian bread. I almost skipped lunch altogether but good sense did prevail. My stomach got upset after supper last night and was is still not real happy today. Nothing coming out either end but just a feeling of something like indigestion or something. And before lunch it was more like pinching pains in my stomach. I still cast a suspicious eye at supper even though neither of the other two people who ate the same thing have had any issues. And then again, I have had stomach problems for many years, but those seemed to have been better since I started taking Omeprezol daily. And here it is almost supper time again and my stomach is still being moody with me. :( ugh.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Day 105
11:00 p.m.
Almost missed another day. I sure am getting good at that. fasting BG was 105. Day was good. Post supper was 139.
In other news, Alabama is still digging out from the tornadoes of April 27 and Bin Laden's death was announced. A small amount of closure for so many who were impacted on 09/11/01.
Almost missed another day. I sure am getting good at that. fasting BG was 105. Day was good. Post supper was 139.
In other news, Alabama is still digging out from the tornadoes of April 27 and Bin Laden's death was announced. A small amount of closure for so many who were impacted on 09/11/01.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Day 101
4:45 p.m.
Fasting BG was 107. Not sure how the post-breakfast and post-lunch numbers were since I did not test. It wasn't the day to test post breakfast again and I wasn't back home in time to test post-lunch after going out for Chinese lunch.
We had no power since 5:45 in the a.m. and since we had already planned to go out today it worked out okay as we were still without power. It was convenient that the morning storms passed over before time to go out, but we are at the front edge of the next round now. After lunch we drove down the road a few miles from our house and looked at the trees that had been snapped off about 10-12 feet above ground - nothing left of them but the 10-12 ft trunks with raw wood feathered where they were ripped in two. A lot of houses down there had trees on them and even more had trees completely uprooted in the yards. Kinda sad really. I feel so bad for those people having to deal with the damage and property loss.
I really wanted to test Chinese restaurant Sesame Chicken since I love it so much. I guess next time I will carry my test kit even if I do expect to be back home in time.
Fasting BG was 107. Not sure how the post-breakfast and post-lunch numbers were since I did not test. It wasn't the day to test post breakfast again and I wasn't back home in time to test post-lunch after going out for Chinese lunch.
We had no power since 5:45 in the a.m. and since we had already planned to go out today it worked out okay as we were still without power. It was convenient that the morning storms passed over before time to go out, but we are at the front edge of the next round now. After lunch we drove down the road a few miles from our house and looked at the trees that had been snapped off about 10-12 feet above ground - nothing left of them but the 10-12 ft trunks with raw wood feathered where they were ripped in two. A lot of houses down there had trees on them and even more had trees completely uprooted in the yards. Kinda sad really. I feel so bad for those people having to deal with the damage and property loss.
I really wanted to test Chinese restaurant Sesame Chicken since I love it so much. I guess next time I will carry my test kit even if I do expect to be back home in time.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)