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...
We all go thru the emotions and hate this disease, what we must do for this disease to control, but you need to do so for yourself and family. We do understand
You will find many kind, knowledgeable people on this forum who will help you in any way they can, from suggesting articles to read to making you smile!
I take insulin, but it is the Lantus long-acting kind. I take it once per day, along with my Onglyza pill. At first I felt kind of like I had failed, since I couldn't control my numbers with food choices.
Now I try to tell myself that this is a DISEASE, and that some aspects of it may go beyond my control from time to time. I have another health problem that prevents me from engaging in the exercise that many here find is so helpful for them, but I would recommend exercise for everyone who can tolerate it.
All I can do is eat in a way that works with the insulin and stay abreast of developments.
As long as I'm doing those two things, I try to stay away from the guilt and stress that I used to feel about this disease, since those emotions can have a really negative effect on my numbers.
Hope to hear more from you in the coming days!
This forum has some great people here. We are here to help each other and we will all get there over time. Take care and know that you are not alone, we are all here to help you!
cheers,
lary
I have been on inuslin for a very long time. I take Levemir at bedtime and Novalog during the day. Since yu say you are taking it 4 times a day, I assume you are taking a short acting insulin like novalog or humalog. Are you taking a long acting insulin at bedtime?
When you are on insulin you have much better control over your carbs. Once you get your insulin to carb ratio adjusted you will find it much easier to cover the carbs. I wish I had gone on insulin earlier. It more closely mimics the naturally occuring processes in the body. One thing that you need to do religiously when you are on insulin is test, before you eat and two hours after. This will tell you if you are taking enough insulin to cover the carbs you are eating. I know it is difficult in the beginning but in the long run it will be worth it.
I was talking Metformin, actos and some other drug and really did not like the idea of what the drugs where doing to me. Forcing my panaceas to create more insulin just seemed like I was over working the poor thing. I went to a diabetic counselor (something everyone should do) and she asked if I had considered insulin. I was like most people. NEEDLES - run away run away!! Then I thought about it, if my body wants insulin, give it. It is the most natural thing you can do, besides eat right, exercises, ,manage weight and stay in good spirits.
I have never looked backed. I take Lantus and I have a fast acting insulin, if i need it. There is one drawback, at least to me. I took advantage of the insulin. Blood sugars too high, take more.
That catches up to you. Three weeks ago I reached a point where I admitted to myself. I have diabetes and I am fat. I need to change or die early. It is that simple.
I have starting counting calories and exercising. I have not needed fast acting insulin and I have cut my intake of Lantus by 20%. To me Insulin usage has the advantage of being able to take control of my diabetes. I can adjust dosage as my activity level increases and my weight drops. Just don't use it as a crutch to avoid the reality of your situation.
You said you are taking it 4 times a day. I assume at meals. The one thing I was not properly educated about was much to take in relation to my expected carb intake. To do that you really need to count carbs. I use a Iphone app called LoseIt!. I love it, I also use an app called FrogLog for diabetic data tracking. I was unable to find a single app that met my needs.
Enough rambling
Have a great day and don't forget to set your clocks ahead.