No idea where to put this, had the scare of my life!!!

mamax5

Went with my hubby to his doctor's appointment. He has type 2 diabetes. They gave him an A1C test to see what his average blood glucose levels are...his average was running around 400-500 gah!!!! His doc said if this isn't under control in 6 weeks he will have to go on insulin. Insulin!!! I do not want him to have to be on freakin insulin!!! That feels like the kiss of death to me! I am so flipping scared for him...I mean when she was talking to him I had to leave the room...I had to go get a hold of myself :"( ....the good news is I think it scared my hubby too....he ate a salad from subway for lunch :huh: I didn't have to say a word to him about it. I was speechless. I am really hoping that this woke him up and he lays off the candy bars...fake wheat bread...and potatoes...Well, with 2 steps forward we still had one back....hotpockets, he bought hotpockets. 36 grams of carbs in one! ONE! It is just as bad as the freakin potato! Well at least he is beginning to read labels and is coming over to my side :devil:

We aren't done shopping we still have to get produce and chicken. Hopefully I will be able to talk him into sprouted grain bread!!

booboo68

Hang in there. As a nurse, I know that when a person receives a diagnosis of diabetes, they go through what we call a denial period before the reality and need for a lifestyle change kicks in. Kudos to him for the Subway salad. Baby steps on the hot pockets. Sit him down and tell him your fears, sometimes seeing that the reality of the situation effects not only them but their loved ones is the kick in the butt to get them on the right track for a permanent life change. Also be there for him. Do your research as well so that you can be supportive cooking healthy low carb, low sugar, high protein meals that benefit the whole family. Challenge him to join you on your journey and let him come to the realization that now he is literally fighting for his life. Best of luck to both of you through this difficult journey.

suv_hater

Hi,

I would highly suggest reading this book: http://www.amazon.com/Neal-Barnards-Program-Reversing-Diabetes/dp/1594868107

Here is a review: http://www.vegparadise.com/vegreading97.html

Watching your fat intake is just as, if not more important, than watching carbs. You want to follow a low-fat diet (this doesn't mean NO FAT AT ALL)... it just means you want small amounts of GOOD fats.

AlexT29

Most of my family has diabetes (one reason why I'm here), and with acceptance and a good diet, he can lead a healthy, normal life. I know it's scary - I remember how I felt when my parents were diagnosed - but both of you can get through this. Good luck.

bdubya55

Went with my hubby to his doctor's appointment. He has type 2 diabetes. They gave him an A1C test to see what his average blood glucose levels are...his average was running around 400-500 gah!!!! His doc said if this isn't under control in 6 weeks he will have to go on insulin. Insulin!!! I do not want him to have to be on freakin insulin!!! That feels like the kiss of death to me! I am so flipping scared for him...I mean when she was talking to him I had to leave the room...I had to go get a hold of myself :"( ....the good news is I think it scared my hubby too....he ate a salad from subway for lunch :huh: I didn't have to say a word to him about it. I was speechless. I am really hoping that this woke him up and he lays off the candy bars...fake wheat bread...and potatoes...Well, with 2 steps forward we still had one back....hotpockets, he bought hotpockets. 36 grams of carbs in one! ONE! It is just as bad as the freakin potato! Well at least he is beginning to read labels and is coming over to my side :devil:

We aren't done shopping we still have to get produce and chicken. Hopefully I will be able to talk him into sprouted grain bread!!

Hi there,

I'm a Type 2 insulin dependent diabetic, and was diagnosed almost 30 years ago, and can empathize with you and your husbands fears and concerns. It's an extremely daunting experience when first learning of a diagnosis of diabetes.

I'm happy to hear he's taking his new diagnosis seriously. Does your husband have a glucose meter? If not, he needs one. Eating to his meter, testing before meals and 2hrs after will tell him what specific foods raise his blood sugars and which ones don't.

I echo booboo68's nutrition suggestions, adopting a lower carb lifestyle. As you mentioned, the white carbs, such as bread, rice, cereal and potatoes have high carb content and will need to be eliminated. Eat to your meter as we say.

This great website below has a lot of easy read and understand information related to diabetes management and blood sugar control. I encourage you both to check it out, as it's been a huge help to me over the years.

http://www.phlaunt.com/diabetes/index.php

Another great diabetes site with low carb recipes and support forums for both you and him.

http://www.diabetesdaily.com/forum/

My Fitness Pal has a very supportive, encouraging and helpful Type 2 diabetic support group and I encourage him to join us.

http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/1772-type-2-diabetes-support-group

I've successfully managed my Type 2 diabetes for 30 years and have no complications. In fact, since joining MFP and working this program as intended, I've lost weight and significantly reduce my diabetes meds. A diagnosis of diabetes isn't a death sentence unless it's left uncontrolled.

Please feel free to message me if you think I might be of help to you and your husband, and I wish you both much success on your new journey.

JaceyMarieS

Hi,

I would highly suggest reading this book: http://www.amazon.com/Neal-Barnards-Program-Reversing-Diabetes/dp/1594868107

Here is a review: http://www.vegparadise.com/vegreading97.html

Watching your fat intake is just as, if not more important, than watching carbs. You want to follow a low-fat diet (this doesn't mean NO FAT AT ALL)... it just means you want small amounts of GOOD fats.

I would have to seriously suggest you (your husband) NOT follow the above recommendation for Barnard's book. It's not-so-thinly disguised vegan propaganda

I second the recommendations to check out http://www.phlaunt.com/diabetes/index.php. You can also access it at bloodsugar101.com Lots of research explained in an easy-to-understand way.

And I also highly recommend http://www.diabetesforum.com/ The ADA website diabetes.org is semi-helpful. the forums have some really knowledgeable folks, especially the posters Alan (http://loraldiabetes.blogspot.com/) and Lizzy(http://lizzysdlounge.com/)

Finally, if you want the opinion of a doctor rather than a layperson, I highly recommend Dr Richard Bernstein. He's an endocrinologist with Type 1 diabetes. Much of his book is available free online http://www.diabetes-solution.net/

and, I almost forgot (OK. I did forget, but editted to add) http://www.dietdoctor.com/lchf

Jolene8992

My diagnosis one yr ago is what kicked my butt in gear. I just stopped bad carbs that very day. One year later my hga1c went from 8.6 to less than 5. He has to hit that wall all by himself.

flyrobinfly57

I was diagnose in 2008 with Type 2. Even with meds, lifestyle change (diet and exercise) my numbers continued to fluctuate. I began the SoloStar Lantus last Nov. (Pen syringe and smallest needle) Best thing I ever did. Within a month I began to feel 100% better. I still get 30 minutes min. most days of the week walking or cycling and I watch my food intake. Learn as much about it as you can..Most insurances pay for a CDE, Diabetes educator and nutrition classes. Good luck and search for the diabetes group here on MFP

ahamm002

Hi,

I would highly suggest reading this book: http://www.amazon.com/Neal-Barnards-Program-Reversing-Diabetes/dp/1594868107

Here is a review: http://www.vegparadise.com/vegreading97.html

Watching your fat intake is just as, if not more important, than watching carbs. You want to follow a low-fat diet (this doesn't mean NO FAT AT ALL)... it just means you want small amounts of GOOD fats.

Real research has never backed up low fat diets as being any better than any other kind of reasonable diet. However quite a bit of research has shown that low fat diets give worse results than other types.

To the OP: read this link. If it's too long for you, just skip to the very last sections (11 & 12):
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3299312/

JUDDDing

Well, it's not as bad as it could be.

It's not an immediate death sentence.

But it is bad. And as long as you don;t let this fear overwhelm you - it can be useful.

Finally, if you want the opinion of a doctor rather than a layperson, I highly recommend Dr Richard Bernstein. He's an endocrinologist with Type 1 diabetes. Much of his book is available free online http://www.diabetes-solution.net/

I'll happily second this recommendation - this is IMO, the best book on the market for diabetics.

My other recommendation is for him to get a meter and test a LOT.

Beyond basic education (What is a carb?, etc) it's important for him to listen to his body (and his meter) much more than any of the "experts" you'll run into (and you'll get lots of opinions - including mine).

In my experience, he should have 3 goals right now:
1. Control his blood sugar
2. Exercise
3. Lose weight (fat)

For #1 - I immediately stopped eating carbs. Not forever, but until my blood sugar was back to around 120 fasting, post meals and before bed. It took a few weeks. After that you can reintroduce carbs but test well to see what they do to you. #2 and #3 will enable you to add even more carbs if you need (I like carbs). For many guys - low carb is not that bad. Eat the steak - skip the potato. Eat the bacon and eggs, skip the toast or pancakes. I think it is do-able for a few weeks.

One thing you can do for him that is very important is to be his cheerleader and assistant. Diabetes can be exhausting especially early on. And "fatigue" is a constant danger where diabetics stop taking care of themselves and slip back into their old habits. Do your best to help prevent this (it's not easy).

halleymw

An 8 percent weight loss has been shown to markedly improve diabetes, as long as you are insulin resistant and not insulin deficiant. I watched a tv show on pbs the other day about HIIT exercise. In the show, the host had borderline insulin resistance. After a 6 week exercise program of HIIT (this was relatively modest, with 20 seconds of intense exercise x3 per session, three times a week) he imporved his insulin sensitivity by 25 percent. Of course, he should not t do any exercise until he gets his doctors ok, especially HIIT!!!!!
Mike

_Zardoz_

Has he been referred to a dietician? If not I would be going to see one. Much better than dodgy internet recommendations

AdviDaddy

Hey, I am a diabetic too. But I've been working out and eating clean. My GI score is come back to 'prediabetic' range.

Its not much.. but small changes lead to great result.

Diet, drill and drugs. That's the key.

Don't expect miracles to happen overnight. It will take time but the result would definitely be long lasting.

mamax5

Well, it's not as bad as it could be.

It's not an immediate death sentence.

But it is bad. And as long as you don;t let this fear overwhelm you - it can be useful.

Finally, if you want the opinion of a doctor rather than a layperson, I highly recommend Dr Richard Bernstein. He's an endocrinologist with Type 1 diabetes. Much of his book is available free online http://www.diabetes-solution.net/

I'll happily second this recommendation - this is IMO, the best book on the market for diabetics.

My other recommendation is for him to get a meter and test a LOT.

Beyond basic education (What is a carb?, etc) it's important for him to listen to his body (and his meter) much more than any of the "experts" you'll run into (and you'll get lots of opinions - including mine).

In my experience, he should have 3 goals right now:
1. Control his blood sugar
2. Exercise
3. Lose weight (fat)

For #1 - I immediately stopped eating carbs. Not forever, but until my blood sugar was back to around 120 fasting, post meals and before bed. It took a few weeks. After that you can reintroduce carbs but test well to see what they do to you. #2 and #3 will enable you to add even more carbs if you need (I like carbs). For many guys - low carb is not that bad. Eat the steak - skip the potato. Eat the bacon and eggs, skip the toast or pancakes. I think it is do-able for a few weeks.

One thing you can do for him that is very important is to be his cheerleader and assistant. Diabetes can be exhausting especially early on. And "fatigue" is a constant danger where diabetics stop taking care of themselves and slip back into their old habits. Do your best to help prevent this (it's not easy).

This is what I am aiming for in my cooking...I cannot control what he eats outside the house no matter how much I would love to! I personally think a low-fat way of eating is not the way to go. Fat doesn't make you fat....sugar does! (refined carbs and such) Thanks for all the input!

lithezebra

Your honey is going to need a glucose meter and plenty of testing strips. I like the Relion Ultima because the strips are cheap and you can test after every meal, which lets you keep a log of which foods raise your blood sugar to unacceptable levels.

Lupercalia

Yeah, low carb + low fat = FAILEO diet. Glad you're not afraid of fat, OP. I'd avoid that weird vegan book.

Best wishes to you and your husband. :flowerforyou:

Mustang_Susie

Has he been referred to a dietician? If not I would be going to see one. Much better than dodgy internet recommendations

Agree. I'm also a nurse who has taken care of diabetics for 25 years.
Type 2 DM and insulin does not need to be seen as the kiss of death.
Insulin can be a temporary tool until he can control his sugars with dietary alterations.
The bodily devastation caused by uncontrolled blood sugars should be much more alarming to you than insulin injections.

kimosabe1

I have been type one (shots) for almost 30 years and what he needs to do is drop some weight. This would benefit him to where he can avoid shots. A blood glucose monitor would help but strips are super expensive and lowering his carbs to drop weight is the best thing he can do. EXERCISE would greatly benefit him as well. good luck!

redladywitch

It's so scary. I was recently diagnosed as a type 2. Although I am on oral meds, I use my food intake and exercise to help control my blood sugars. A referral to a dietician is a smart thing to do. There is so much advice out there and in here. Try not to be swayed by fear (which is normal) and then duped into some weird diet. There really is no such thing as a diabetic diet. I hope the stress eases a bit. Carbs, fruits, etc.....a dietician and even a diabetic nurse or endocrinologist can help you and your husband understand what to do. The ADA site is fabulous and has the most current information. My heart goes out to you and to your husband. Peace and Blessings.....

d_Mode

My A1c was 16.3 when I was first diagnosed with Type2 Diabetes back in Oct. 2010. I was put on Metformin and two different types of insulin, one I took before each meal (Novolog) and one at bed time (Humulin N). It's NOT a Death Sentence.

He will need to make some changes to his diet and should begin some sort of exercise, at least start walking, 20 minutes a day...

I was able to get off my insulin through moderate changes to my diet and by keeping my carb intake between 30-60g per meal. It's good that he is starting to read labels.

I measure and weigh my food as best I can. Get some measuring cups and a food scale. The biggest thing that has helped me get off my insulin was losing weight. I have been sticking to 1700 calories per day and have lost 41 lbs so far...and I don't hit the gym day after day or anything like that. I just walk as much as I can.

2hobbit1

Hi,

I would highly suggest reading this book: http://www.amazon.com/Neal-Barnards-Program-Reversing-Diabetes/dp/1594868107

Here is a review: http://www.vegparadise.com/vegreading97.html

Watching your fat intake is just as, if not more important, than watching carbs. You want to follow a low-fat diet (this doesn't mean NO FAT AT ALL)... it just means you want small amounts of GOOD fats.

I would have to seriously suggest you (your husband) NOT follow the above recommendation for Barnard's book. It's not-so-thinly disguised vegan propaganda

I second the recommendations to check out http://www.phlaunt.com/diabetes/index.php. You can also access it at bloodsugar101.com Lots of research explained in an easy-to-understand way.

And I also highly recommend http://www.diabetesforum.com/ The ADA website diabetes.org is semi-helpful. the forums have some really knowledgeable folks, especially the posters Alan (http://loraldiabetes.blogspot.com/) and Lizzy(http://lizzysdlounge.com/)

Finally, if you want the opinion of a doctor rather than a layperson, I highly recommend Dr Richard Bernstein. He's an endocrinologist with Type 1 diabetes. Much of his book is available free online http://www.diabetes-solution.net/

and, I almost forgot (OK. I did forget, but editted to add) http://www.dietdoctor.com/lchf

^^^^ all of this!^^^^
Do your homework - go on line and read every thing Alan and Lizzy have to say on the ADA website!
Be sure of the type 2 diagnosis - did they do any other testing other than the A1C? I was just diagnosed the end of January - had sugars in the high 400's and was in diabetic ketoacidosis(DKA). The ER doc assumed since I was 60 that I had to be a type 2 - not the case - I was a LADA Late onset Autoimune Daibetes in the adult - I am a type 1 and am insulin dependent. The treatments are totally different and if I had not had the sense to insist on additional testing i might not be here now. They did not pickup on the fact that type 2's do not usually present in DKA, that 10 units of insulin will not bring a type 2 down to 120 from 450 in 2 hours not to mention that my BMI was 23! I learned a lot from the ADA site, and from Lizzy and Alan. Lots of good info and they will answer your questions too!

Insulin is not something to be afraid of - it can/is a life saver. It is not so difficult to figure out and is not painful to use!
Have your Doc write for a glucose meter and test strips and follow Lizzys advice on how/when/how often to test. Knowledge of you numbers and what the foods you eat do to them is vital.
If he is a type 2 insulin use can be a temporary assist in getting his sugars down while the dietary changes and oral meds kick in.

Getting over the initial shock can take a while - but remember that there are worse things that can happen to you than needing to poke fingers frequently and use insulin. He will feel so much better when he gets things under control. I'm sure he will be glad to see the fatigue, thirst, constant urination, vision changes, joint pain, lack of libedo, balance issues, etc disapear when he gets his number down.

You may need to be his advocate - and you need to be more educated than he is so you can lead him in the right direction. The diet changes will be good for both of you!