Diabetes Type 2 Support Group
Type 2 Diabetes is a condition in which the body either does not produce enough insulin or does not make efficient use of it. Insulin is a hormone needed to convert food into glucose, a sugar that the body uses for energy. Without enough insulin, glucose can accumulate in the blood, and can cause serious health problems such as heart disease and strokes and organ damage...
My doctor did some blood work and found that my H1C1 is 6.5. She wants to see me. I see her on Thursday but I am very anxious as to what is going to happen. I couldnt get too many answers while on the phone with the nurse. Could I change it if I work really hard. I was told I am still at a level where I could bring it down. What are some dietary changes you guys made. I have literally been watching every little thing I eat for the last 4 days since the phone call. I am very over weight so I will be getting my weight down. This is all just scary and new to me. Thanks for listening
Things you may not realize raise your blood sugar:
Some medications
caffeine
stress
infection/illness
These are big things to keep an eye on. They sneak your numbers up. I stopped drinking DIET COKE and lost 30+ pounds in 3 months changing NOTHING else. Switch to decaf if you're a coffee drinker. Something that really helps bring my numbers down is over the counter cinnamon with chromium found in the pharmacy area/vitamin area.
I am on insulin so I have to watch my carb intake, but I suspect all diabetics should watch this.. Less pasta, less bread and more veggies. Be aware that fruit and some veggies are high in natural sugars so even tho we have always thought they are healthy they still must be eaten in moderation as well. If you like celery tho it's a great snack since it barely counts as anything. In fact I think I read once it actually is a negative food meaning it helps bring down blood sugar.. I don't like celery so I've never checked it out, and before you just take my word for it please research it.
Our bodies all react to things differently so what works for me may not work for you. With the help of your doctor tho you'll get control of it and get that number down, and yes losing weight will help tremendously and adding activity will too.... It's a journey to be sure.... Not always fun but when you reach your goals is gives you a feeling of pride and pushes you to do even better.
I eat between 35-45 grams of carbs per meal and about 20 grams for a snack. You can go online or get a chart from a dietitian on carb counts. I also do the plate dividing trick. I fill up half my dinner plate with veggies/salad and a fruit, a quarter of my plate with a whole grain bread (1 slice and a dab of real butter), and 3 ounces of meat (mostly lean).
Try to stick with fresh veggies and fruit. I bake my veggies drizzled with a little olive oil and sea salt (careful with the salt).
I don't drink soda....only water and tea. I indulge with one cup of coffee in the morning with real sugar and real cream.
I stay away from white rice, white potatoes, pasta, white bread, popcorn, anything with white flour.....basically......all white starchy foods......and fried food too. These foods usually make your blood sugar soar and holds your numbers higher longer.
I know it sounds like I just took the wind out of your sail, but not all is lost.
I have learned to do exchanges with my food. I have tweaked recipes to accommodate it with healthier and low carb ingredients.
Some ppl use Dreamfield pasta....watch your portion size and are fine....others say it is not working for them.
Every diabetic is different, so it is all trial and error kinda thing.
My mom and I are both type 2 and handle our diets very differently.
She eats everything and does portion control. I am very sensitive to the white foods and have to stay away from them for the most part (occasionally I sneak 1 or 2 fries when I am out with her....but I factor it into my carb count). I also have to test my blood about 3 or 4 times a day....my mom only tests before breakfast.....however, I am a new diabetic and my blood sugar drops a lot....plus I suffer from anxiety and the symptoms mimic each other....each has to be treated differently. I am finally able to tell the difference without testing....however, I still test at the required times.
Doing what I have been doing, I lowered my A1C, lowered my blood pressure, and lost around 80 or 90 pounds (still losing).
I also walk a few times a week and do gardening. I have more energy and feel great!!!!
Don't look at this as a diet, but more of a lifestyle change.
I find it fun to make up recipes or try new foods.
I eat more now than I did before diagnosis.....becuz I am eating healthier.
By the way....your A1C is not that bad. If it comes back a 7 or higher, that is when the doctors become more concerned.
My guess is by taking control now, it will be under control before you know it.
You can do it. Managing good eating habits and exercise is good.....even if you are not diabetic.
Keep coming back for support, tips, and for any questions you may have....ok?
Take care and relax :)