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1568101132

Replies

  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    Hello I am Jackie and T2. I need to loose 25 pounds in order to be given a new Liver Transplant . I am also a diabetic with a A1C of 9 as of yesterday. I need to get my blood sugar under control also...so I am looking for some ideas and support to loose the weight and lower the blood sugar too. Looking forward to new friends and suggestions.
    Thanks,
    Jackie:flowerforyou:

    Hi Jackie,

    The myfitnesspal tracking program is a powerful tool to help you reach your weight loss goals when applied correctly. If you're currently not using a blood glucose meter to track your blood sugars against your food choices by testing before mealtimes and 2hrs afterwards, I encourage you to seek out a prescription for one from your healthcare provider treating your diabetes, having him/her recommend blood sugar target goals to aim for.

    Additionally, seeking out a recommendation to a diabetes education course in your area from your healthcare team has proven to be very beneficial to those newly diagnosed.

    Best wishes for your success on your journey to your transplant and beyond.

    Have a look around the various thread topics and ask questions when you feel comfortable. There are many knowledgeable members of this group eager to share their experiences and advise.

    Welcome!
  • zcb94
    zcb94 Posts: 3,678 Member
    Hello. My name is Zoe Bevers. I was recently diagnosed with Type II Diabetes, with sugar going down after drastic lifestyle change. I don't like needles, so I don't want to test myself if I don't have to. I am also on Metformin, like another member, as well as harsh diet and extreme exercise. I love myfitnesspal to let me know how many calories are left in each day. The hard part is that I am in a wheelchair, limiting my exercise options to horse riding and hand biking, 1 hr weekly and 30 mins-1 hr daily, respectively. I also must eliminate ALL flour and sweetness (BOOO!) from my life.
  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    Hello. My name is Zoe Bevers. I was recently diagnosed with Type II Diabetes, with sugar going down after drastic lifestyle change. I don't like needles, so I don't want to test myself if I don't have to. I am also on Metformin, like another member, as well as harsh diet and extreme exercise. I love myfitnesspal to let me know how many calories are left in each day. The hard part is that I am in a wheelchair, limiting my exercise options to horse riding and hand biking, 1 hr weekly and 30 mins-1 hr daily, respectively. I also must eliminate ALL flour and sweetness (BOOO!) from my life.

    Hi, Welcome Zoe!

    Glad to hear your blood sugars have come down as a result of the new lifestyle changes you've made. Being diagnosed with a condition of diabetes for many people brings with it a wide range of emotions at first.

    As T2D's we're carbohydrate intolerant. The myfitnesspal program is a powerful tracking tool when applied correctly in helping us track the carbs we eat. Each of is unique in how the various carbs we eat effect our blood sugars. Testing before meals and 2hrs after is an important part of the learning process of how the choices we make affect the blood sugar and the target goals we set for ourselves with the help of our healthcare providers.

    By eating to your meter you'll quickly learn, what effects the food choices you've made had on your blood sugars. I can empathize with your dislike of needles. Testing can and will be somewhat uncomfortable at times. I've found ways to reduce this discomfort by changing out my testing lancets before each test. I also found more comfort by using the sides of my finger tips instead of my finger pads. Rotate your lancing sites too. Most lancing devices give the ability to dial back the depth. I'd recommend starting at the lowest setting and dial up until you are able to produce a large enough sample for a test result.

    It's great you have an interest in riding and hand biking too given your limitations. Google is your friend when looking towards adding additional exercise routines to your temporary or permanent wheel chaired lifestyle.

    This community is very eager to help and support your efforts through sharing knowledge and advise whenever possible along with offering genuine encouragement too.

    Best wishes for your success and good health!
  • VitaNew2014
    VitaNew2014 Posts: 1 Member
    Hello everyone,
    My name is Travita and I recently found out that I have T2D and of course I was shocked. But when I really thought about it, I wasn't because I was going to school (online) so I was not moving much. It seemed my life revolved around sitting at my kitchen table with a stack of books. Now that I know, I have been making a change for the better. I am aware of myself and it actually feels good. I am watching what i eat and exercising more (a lot more) and I am even attempting a Color Run 5K next month. My levels have been good because of the changes that I have made, but can anyone offer any advice that a newbee should know.

    Travita
  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    Hi Travita!

    It's great you've made some changes already proven by your better blood sugar levels. One of the most frustrating issues of having this condition is, each of us is unique in our management, blood sugar target goals, the various oral and injectable medications we take along with how our bodies react to our food choices.

    The good news is, the myfitnesspal tracking program is a powerful tool when applied honestly and correctly. As T2D's we're carbohydrate intolerant. Meaning carbohydrates raise blood sugar levels. Some more than others. Suspect carbs to avoid would be breads, rice, pasta, potatoes and most processed and refined foods.

    Eating to your meter is a good guideline to follow. Test before mealtimes and 2hrs after to learn the affects of the food choices you've made. It's all trial and error. Perfection doesn't exist.

    I strongly encourage you to seek out the help of a diabetes education course in your area from your healthcare provider. Many newly diagnosed individuals find these classes very beneficial.

    bloodsugar101.com is a great place to start if you haven't already visited. It's packed with a lot of invaluable information designed to answer your questions and ease frustration.

    This is a wonderful community eager to share our experiences with what works and doesn't work. Have a look around the various thread topics, ask questions if you have any. Your contributions and experiences are warmly welcomed too. We're all here to help each other out whenever possible.

    Best wishes towards your success and good health.

    Welcome!

    ~Bob
  • ila1941
    ila1941 Posts: 7 Member
    I was diagnosed with T2 July, 2002. As with a lot of diabetics, I got by with being lax, but as I got older it started to catch up with me. I was on Metformin but the doctor became concerned about my kidneys so I was taken off Metformin and started Levemir. The breakthrough came several months ago when I switched from injecting in my thighs to my stomach. Since then I have started the days with good fasting numbers, and have been able to keep them low the rest of the day. I started using myfitnesspal app about then too and discovered how many carbs I could eat at a meal, and that some of the foods I had been denying myself I could eat in a small serving, about 15 carbs. My latest A1C was 6.9, down from 7.8 three months ago.
  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    Hi ila!

    If we're at all honest with ourselves, I think we all can relate to your being lax. I certainly can, having been diagnosed in 1982.

    Your breakthrough in switching injection sites is cool, as the stomach area provides the best absorption rate for dosing.

    Glad to know you've been able make improvements towards your blood sugar control based on the changes you've made.

    Equally wonderful is your discovery on how the carbs you eat effect your control and making adjustments to meet your target goals.

    Congratulations on your improvement from 7.8 to 6.9. Not an easy task.

    Welcome!
  • Adefowler
    Adefowler Posts: 61 Member
    Hi! New to the group and new to diabetes. I just got diagnosed last Tuesday. I've been fighting the pre-diabetes for years. And even though I'm not overweight and very athletic, it has caught up with me. All of my siblings have it, my father had it, and now I've got it.

    For the next three months, my doctor and I are treating with diet. I'm down to 50 carbs a day. I'm kinda liking that I'm starting to lose weight again, because I've put on about 15 pounds from my goal weight. I'm looking forward to losing those. But this diet is hard for me because fruit was my favorite food. I didn't eat sweets and ate very few unprocessed foods before since I've got Celiac disease and I'm allergic to eggs and dairy.

    As I said before I'm very athletic and I run half-marathons and 10Ks for fun, and am looking to do run first marathon in July 2015. I also swim, do lots and lots of hot power yoga, hike, and walk. I'm also running Ragnar next month.

    My numbers:
    A1C: 6.7
    Fasting blood sugar: 113 (after at 3.5 mile run to the doctor)

    I could really use some help on how to do this low carb thing while long-distance running...so if anyone can help or friend me, I'd super appreciate it.



    Andrea :-)
  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    Hi Andrea, Welcome!

    Thanks for sharing.

    Adding a second chronic condition to your lifestyle plate surely must be challenging. Eliminating the foods we've enjoyed is oftentimes very challenging. Best of luck achieving your 3 month goals.

    It's wonderful your so athletic and active too. Very impressive, and clearly debunks the theory promoted that being diagnosed with T2D stems from being overweight and inactive.

    A 3.5 mile run to the doctor? Now I'm super impressed!

    I'm not a low carber, and definitely not a long distance runner. Hopefully someone else might offer some tips and advise. If not you may want to create a new topic.

    In the meantime, best wishes towards your success!

    btw, great pic!
  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    Welcome to the Type 2 Diabetes Support Group! :smile:

    Hi, my name is Bob. I'm living a happy, healthy and complication free lifestyle since my T2 diagnosis in 1982.

    I'm treating my T2D condition with Lantus long acting insulin, Metformin 2x/day, along with Novolog mealtime insulin to cover my mealtime carbohydrates. It's also important for me to incorporate a weekly exercise routine whenever possible-to help me reduce the insulin resistance issues associated with having Type 2 diabetes.

    Have a look around the various thread topics within this group, and ask questions when you feel comfortable. There are many kind, supportive and knowledgeable members of this group eager to share their experiences with you on what works for them-and what hasn't worked for them too.

    Sharing your contributions and experiences with this very supportive community is strongly encouraged and warmly welcomed.

    One of the foremost frustrating issues living with a condition of diabetes is, each of us is unique in how we approach the management of this condition. From the medications we take, our food choices, blood sugar management goals each of us has-and how the food and exercise choices we make effect our individualistic blood sugar target and management goals-just to name a few.

    The good news is, the myftinesspal program, when applied honestly and correctly is a powerful tool, to help you reach for your goals, by tracking the food choices you make and how those choices effect your blood sugar testing results.

    If you're newly diagnosed-I strongly encourage you to seek out the recommendation of a diabetes education course in your area-from your healthcare provider, as many newly diagnosed with this condition find them to be very beneficial.

    Best wishes for your good health and success!
  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    Hi there, Type 2 Diabetes Support Group! drinker

    The following is a list of online diabetic communities I've found to be very educational, beneficial and helpful over the years towards my diabetes self-care goals.

    Each site is unique and beneficial, packed with invaluable information for those new to diabetes, in addition to those veteran diabetics wanting a refresher course too.

    Additionally they’re designed to answer your questions, ease your confusion and frustration. Knowledge is one of the best tools for managing diabetes.

    Copy and paste any one of these helpful and informative links of interest below in to your web browzer.

    www.bloodsugar101.com

    http://www.diabetes.ca/ (The Canadian Diabetes Association)

    www.diabetes.co.uk

    www.diabetesdaily.com

    www.diabetesselfmanagement.com

    www.tudiabetes.org

    ~ Will Dubois is a Diabetes Author, Educator and Advocate and a diabetes patient himself. He dedicates his life to help people with diabetes in rural New Mexico, as Diabetes Coordinator at the Pecos Valley Medical Center. He has written a book called "Taming the Tiger", meant to help people during their first year with diabetes.

    http://www.tudiabetes.org/forum/topics/a-free-ebook-to-help-you-on

    ~Mayo Clinic, a leading national healthcare practice, education and research institution, has provided this information covering the basics you need to know.

    http://www.diabeticconnect.com/diabetes-information-articles/diabetes-basics/2-type-2-diabetes

    ~Joslin Diabetes Center, located in Boston, Massachusetts, is the world's largest diabetes research and clinical care organization. Joslin is dedicated to ensuring that people with diabetes live long, healthy lives and offers real hope and progress toward diabetes prevention and a cure. Joslin is an independent, nonprofit institution affiliated with Harvard Medical School.

    www.joslin.org


    http://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/articles/diabetes-basics/improving-your-diabetes-care-visits/1/
    Copy and paste this link above to your web browzer. Good a article, check it out.

    Another good resource below.

    http://www.dlife.com/


    ~Calorie King, has been a very valuable site to me for nutritional information, taking a lot of the guesswork out of carbohydrate counting. Their database is huge!

    www.calorieking.com

    Wishing everyone here living with his condition, continuous improvement and good health!

    ~ Bob
  • life_enthusiast
    life_enthusiast Posts: 15 Member
    Hi, I'm Kristen.

    I'm a Type 2 Diabetic. I was diagnosed with Diabetes in January of 2012. I had an A1C of 8.0 and took it down to a 5.9 in 8 months (via eating healthier and moving more). I also lost 30 pounds in that first 8 months. I'm holding steady around 5.9 now and on only 1 Metformin a day. I am working on getting my 150 minutes of cardio in every week, at the moment. Ideally, I'd like to lose another 20 pounds to get me to a healthy BMI. However, I'm taking it one day at a time and not pushing to get there. If I get there....great! If not...that's ok too.

    My Dad and cousin have Type 2 Diabetes. My Uncle died in his 50's due to Diabetes complications. It's on both sides of my family, so I guess it was inevitable that I have it too. Although, my two brothers are still in the clear. Granted I was the one who had an Obese BMI a couple years ago. So, that might have a little bit to do with hit.

    I'm a Marketing Coach/Consultant by day. I'm in Community Theater, Community Chorus and play games with Hubby and friends as often as possible, by night. I enjoy hiking, swimming, kayaking and Zumba when I can. I've been known to walk my neighborhood too.

    I look forward to meeting others on the board.
    Create a great day!
    Kristen
  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    Congratulations on bringing your A1c down to under 6 in 8 months in addition to your weight loss progress. Well done!:drinker:
    Thanks for sharing some of the changes you've made that contributed towards your accomplishments.

    Impressive too is your interest in Community Theatre and Community Chorus too. Being a Marketing Coach and Consultant by day, must bring with it a rewarding experience.

    Best wishes for your continued success and good health Kristen. Welcome!
  • Luizam25
    Luizam25 Posts: 87 Member
    congrats Kristen...good job!
  • bullzi4
    bullzi4 Posts: 1 Member
    Hi Everyone.... I was diagnosed with T2 in April of this year. Right now I am controlling with diet and exercise. Embarrassing to say, I was a Weight Watchers Leader for 20 years... my doctor told me that I was an expert in healthy eating (although since I retired I have given into many old habits) and he is giving me three months to see how well I do... I have a follow up appointment with my doctor on July 15. To say that this diagnosis was crushing is putting it mildly. I'm sure I'm not the first one to be totally shocked. I spent the first few weeks living in two worlds. One world where I started a healthy eating plan, started reading and learning as much as I could and the other world was the fantasy one where my doctor would tell me there was a mistake and I was fine. Ultimately, I have gone through the stages of mourning.. some stages more than once LOL... and I think I am now able to acknowledge that yes indeed, I do have this disease. Still not liking it much though.

    I find eating healthy to be easier than I thought, although I miss my old friends.... chips....cheese crackers...and chocolate. I'm just wondering how some of you do this year after year and does it get any easier? I find certain foods shoot my numbers to the sky.. like my other best friend ice cream... even the sugar free kind..so I have eliminated ice cream from my food plan. I cannot imagine living the rest of my life without enjoying some of my favs... so if there is any advice for getting in the occasional treat, that would be helpful.

    Thanks for any help or suggestions!
  • amberj32
    amberj32 Posts: 663 Member
    Hi Everyone.... I was diagnosed with T2 in April of this year. Right now I am controlling with diet and exercise. Embarrassing to say, I was a Weight Watchers Leader for 20 years... my doctor told me that I was an expert in healthy eating (although since I retired I have given into many old habits) and he is giving me three months to see how well I do... I have a follow up appointment with my doctor on July 15. To say that this diagnosis was crushing is putting it mildly. I'm sure I'm not the first one to be totally shocked. I spent the first few weeks living in two worlds. One world where I started a healthy eating plan, started reading and learning as much as I could and the other world was the fantasy one where my doctor would tell me there was a mistake and I was fine. Ultimately, I have gone through the stages of mourning.. some stages more than once LOL... and I think I am now able to acknowledge that yes indeed, I do have this disease. Still not liking it much though.

    I find eating healthy to be easier than I thought, although I miss my old friends.... chips....cheese crackers...and chocolate. I'm just wondering how some of you do this year after year and does it get any easier? I find certain foods shoot my numbers to the sky.. like my other best friend ice cream... even the sugar free kind..so I have eliminated ice cream from my food plan. I cannot imagine living the rest of my life without enjoying some of my favs... so if there is any advice for getting in the occasional treat, that would be helpful.

    Thanks for any help or suggestions!

    Welcome to the group! I was also diagnosed in April of this year.(11.4 A1C) The doctors went straight for medication and didn't even give a chance to control it with diet and exercise. I started out really, really good eating healthy. I've been having a little more fast food lately than I would like. I thought I would have to cut out things entirely but it hasn't been like that. I haven't found anything that raises my blood sugar considerably. I'm sticking to MFP macros and it's helped. Ice cream has been okay for me. I only eat one serving, usually 1/2 cup and my blood sugar doesn't go up. I have a follow up appointment with my doctor at the end of July too.

    I wasn't really shocked by the diagnosis. Diabetes runs in my family and I had been eating poorly up until that point and not exercising at all. My mom always warned me but I said I was going to do what I want until it happens. Well, it happened. :(
  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    Hi Everyone.... I was diagnosed with T2 in April of this year. Right now I am controlling with diet and exercise. Embarrassing to say, I was a Weight Watchers Leader for 20 years... my doctor told me that I was an expert in healthy eating (although since I retired I have given into many old habits) and he is giving me three months to see how well I do... I have a follow up appointment with my doctor on July 15. To say that this diagnosis was crushing is putting it mildly. I'm sure I'm not the first one to be totally shocked. I spent the first few weeks living in two worlds. One world where I started a healthy eating plan, started reading and learning as much as I could and the other world was the fantasy one where my doctor would tell me there was a mistake and I was fine. Ultimately, I have gone through the stages of mourning.. some stages more than once LOL... and I think I am now able to acknowledge that yes indeed, I do have this disease. Still not liking it much though.

    I find eating healthy to be easier than I thought, although I miss my old friends.... chips....cheese crackers...and chocolate. I'm just wondering how some of you do this year after year and does it get any easier? I find certain foods shoot my numbers to the sky.. like my other best friend ice cream... even the sugar free kind..so I have eliminated ice cream from my food plan. I cannot imagine living the rest of my life without enjoying some of my favs... so if there is any advice for getting in the occasional treat, that would be helpful.

    Thanks for any help or suggestions!

    Hi bullzi, great pic!

    As T2D's we're carbohydrate intolerant meaning, white starchy food items like white bread, rice, potatoes, pastas and processed foods will spike our blood glucose levels above our blood sugar target goals. Each of us is unique in how our bodies react to the various carbs we eat, in addition to our management approach, along with any blood sugar lowering medications we take.

    By eating to your glucose meter, you'll quickly learn how the food choices you've made effect your blood sugars and if any adjustment is needed regarding those choice(s), keeping in mind perfection managing this condition doesn't exist.

    I meet with my past friends, only occasionally though. Being diagnosed with T2D is an individual emotional experience for each of us, and I can empathize with your experience too.

    I would encourage you to seek out a diabetes education course and/or help from a registered dietitian too specializing in diabetic nutrition from your healthcare provider, as many newly diagnosed find these classes to be very beneficial.

    Another good source of helpful information is bloodsugar101.com

    This is an amazing community eager to share their knowledge, encouragement, support and experiences.

    Best wishes towards your 3 month improvement and continued success and good health.

    Welcome!
  • EatingAndKnitting
    EatingAndKnitting Posts: 531 Member
    Hi! I'm Marlene, new to this group, MFP, AND diabetes! I was just diagnosed last month with type 2 diabetes, but my parents have both had the disease for years.

    I'm on 500 mg of metformin twice a day (for a total of 1000 mg). I try to limit my carbs (haven't been too successful the last couple days, more on that later) to the ones that come from fruits and vegetables and avoid "white" carbs. I'm under the guidance of a registered dietitian and I'm working on getting into a diabetes education class.

    There's a diabetes support group that meets locally once a month, I'm probably going to start going. All the education and support I can get right now is important.

    In addition to changing my diet, I'm adding in exercise. I'm a LOT more active now than I was a month ago, I aim toward getting to the gym five days a week, and so far have been pretty successful. I've made it at least three days a week every week since being diagnosed. I'm working on both cardio and strength training. I bought myself a Fitbit (it arrived Saturday) and I'm in love. I love challenging myself to walk 5,000 steps a day, and with the exception of yesterday, I've made my goal every day!

    Yesterday I had to put my dearly loved, but elderly and sick kitty down. He was diagnosed with chronic renal failure two months ago, was listless and not happy, and had started to drool excessively. Turned out he had developed a tumor under his tongue, and there was nothing they could do about it. So we decided to put him to sleep. He drifted off peacefully and painlessly, and is now happy and healthy across the Rainbow Bridge.

    Anyway, yesterday was devastating. I had pizza for lunch and didn't make it to the gym at all. Today, though, today was a better day. I ate too many carbs, but I got in an hour of cardio, took my meds as directed, met all of my Fitbit goals, and made it through the day (so far) without crying.

    I also have fibromyalgia (mild, thank $DEITY), bipolar disorder (type 1), and ADHD. My psych drugs keep me from losing weight as fast, and probably contributed some to my weight gain. So far though I've lost about nine pounds. My goals are to get down to 200 pounds (I'm currently 291, was 300) and reassess my weight and body composition then, and get off metformin.

    My exercise goal is to be able to run a 5K by the end of the year. I am recovering from a patella realignment surgery, I've been released by my doctor for months now, and have pretty much recovered, but I still say I'm recovering. Anyway, I'm working my way toward being able to walk 3 miles at 3-4 MPH, then I'll start working on increasing speed.

    So, that's my long winded story! (I'm a writer, being verbose is my trade)

    It's nice to meet you all. :)
  • HypnoWhizz
    HypnoWhizz Posts: 6 Member
    Hi Everyone!
    My name is Chris and I'm just signing up to MFP and FitBit as the beginning of my lifestyle changes. I'm a Type 2 diabetic, controlled with Metformin (1), Slow acting insulin (66), Fast acting insulin (20) and Victoza (1.8). I'm based in Rugby UK. and just on the cusp of being 150kg heavy, so finally want to make changes to get it down to ideally 100kg over the next year or two. I'm interested in anything that can help, advice, suggestions and also a kick up the rear (not too hard please) to get me going. At the moment I'm monitoring me as I am and seeing exactly what I'm doing (which is not good). So, next step is making the change.

    Watch this space!

    Cheers All

    Chris
  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    Hi! I'm Marlene, new to this group, MFP, AND diabetes! I was just diagnosed last month with type 2 diabetes, but my parents have both had the disease for years.

    I'm on 500 mg of metformin twice a day (for a total of 1000 mg). I try to limit my carbs (haven't been too successful the last couple days, more on that later) to the ones that come from fruits and vegetables and avoid "white" carbs. I'm under the guidance of a registered dietitian and I'm working on getting into a diabetes education class.

    There's a diabetes support group that meets locally once a month, I'm probably going to start going. All the education and support I can get right now is important.

    In addition to changing my diet, I'm adding in exercise. I'm a LOT more active now than I was a month ago, I aim toward getting to the gym five days a week, and so far have been pretty successful. I've made it at least three days a week every week since being diagnosed. I'm working on both cardio and strength training. I bought myself a Fitbit (it arrived Saturday) and I'm in love. I love challenging myself to walk 5,000 steps a day, and with the exception of yesterday, I've made my goal every day!

    Yesterday I had to put my dearly loved, but elderly and sick kitty down. He was diagnosed with chronic renal failure two months ago, was listless and not happy, and had started to drool excessively. Turned out he had developed a tumor under his tongue, and there was nothing they could do about it. So we decided to put him to sleep. He drifted off peacefully and painlessly, and is now happy and healthy across the Rainbow Bridge.

    Anyway, yesterday was devastating. I had pizza for lunch and didn't make it to the gym at all. Today, though, today was a better day. I ate too many carbs, but I got in an hour of cardio, took my meds as directed, met all of my Fitbit goals, and made it through the day (so far) without crying.

    I also have fibromyalgia (mild, thank $DEITY), bipolar disorder (type 1), and ADHD. My psych drugs keep me from losing weight as fast, and probably contributed some to my weight gain. So far though I've lost about nine pounds. My goals are to get down to 200 pounds (I'm currently 291, was 300) and reassess my weight and body composition then, and get off metformin.

    My exercise goal is to be able to run a 5K by the end of the year. I am recovering from a patella realignment surgery, I've been released by my doctor for months now, and have pretty much recovered, but I still say I'm recovering. Anyway, I'm working my way toward being able to walk 3 miles at 3-4 MPH, then I'll start working on increasing speed.

    So, that's my long winded story! (I'm a writer, being verbose is my trade)

    It's nice to meet you all. :)

    Hi Marlene, Welcome!

    Sorry to learn you had to put a loved one down. Clearly a very emotional experience to work through. He's at rest now and not suffering any longer from his condition.

    You've made some serious changes to your lifestyle since your diagnosis. It won't be long before your ready to run that 5K goal at the end of the year!

    Best wishes towards your success!
  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    Hi Everyone!
    My name is Chris and I'm just signing up to MFP and FitBit as the beginning of my lifestyle changes. I'm a Type 2 diabetic, controlled with Metformin (1), Slow acting insulin (66), Fast acting insulin (20) and Victoza (1.8). I'm based in Rugby UK. and just on the cusp of being 150kg heavy, so finally want to make changes to get it down to ideally 100kg over the next year or two. I'm interested in anything that can help, advice, suggestions and also a kick up the rear (not too hard please) to get me going. At the moment I'm monitoring me as I am and seeing exactly what I'm doing (which is not good). So, next step is making the change.

    Watch this space!

    Cheers All

    Chris

    Hi Chris, Cheers to you too!

    It's great your wanting to make the necessary change to improve your overall health. The MFP tracking program is a powerful tool when applied correctly to help you accomplish your nutritional goals along with improved blood sugar management by tracking your mealtime carbohydrates. Testing before meals and 2hrs after with your monitor you'll quickly learn what effects the food choices you've made had on accomplishing your blood sugar target goals, and if there is the need to reduce portion sizes or eliminate that item altogether to be considered an occasional treat.

    If you haven't already, check out http://www.diabetes.co.uk/type2-diabetes.html

    It's packed with a lot of invaluable information designed to answer your questions along with tips and advise managing this condition.

    Cheers on your journey to good health and success!
  • Dakota106
    Dakota106 Posts: 30 Member
    Good morning all and HAPPY 4TH!!! I am a returning member that let life get the best of me! The good news is I'm down 10 lbs. since last time so moving in the right direction!! These past couple of months the oral meds I was taking were not doing the job,so after getting a new Endo and diabeties sopecialist and trying many new meds ,most of which didn't work and made me really ill I finally am on meds that are working and feeling good! Looking forward to meeting everyone!! Diane
  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    Hi Diane,

    Glad to here you and your new Endo found a combination of meds that meet your needs, and that you're feeling good too!:drinker:

    Congrats on your progress moving in a direction towards accomplishing your goals!

    Welcome back!

    Bob
  • bradley0320
    bradley0320 Posts: 12 Member
    Hi I'm brad. I found out I was T2 last October. I know this may sound crazy but I see diabetes as my life saver. The life style change pushed me to lose weight , eat healthy, and take charge of life. I pushed my a1c down to 5.7. I still take pills like other T2 . Now I live life to the max I can when I see a sweet I know I can at least smell it and enjoy the memory of the tast.
  • j3haughe
    j3haughe Posts: 9
    I was diagnosed at the age of 35 with type two diabetes in April and started using myfitnesspal in earnest at that time in order to lose some pounds and to try to control this new and frightening condition. I'm trying to see my new situation a turning point in my life, an opportunity to improve myself physically in a way I'd never been motivated enough to do before. Up until the diagnosis it just always seemed there were more pressing things to get done that to get myself in check physically. Diabetes has been a wake-up call. I've learned a lot about food and exercise these past three months and have made some pretty dramatic lifestyle changes. I eat wisely now. I get exercise every day (though admittedly more some days than others). Since the diagnosis, I've lost about 25 pounds and 40 overall since January 1st of this year. As of yesterday I'm down to 260 after being at 300 on New Year's Day. I hope to lose another 40 over the next twelve months and then maintain myself at 220 long term. I'm 6'3 and at this point 220 seems like a reasonable goal for a man of my height.

    Even more than that, though, I want to control my diabetes. My hope is to be able to do it without the Metformin I'm currently taking twice a day, though I'm more than willing to use medicine and even insulin as needed in order to keep my blood sugar in control. I'm in the midst of taking diabetes classes in addition to reading every book and website I can find to learn how to better keep this in check, and one of the points that the instructor has made clear is that this battle isn't about going it alone or without medicine or insulin; it's about controlling the disease and using the resources and support available to help you.

    I suppose that's why I'm here and why I'm writing this out. Up until this point, I've used myfitnesspal to record my eating and exercise but have mostly ignored the social aspect of the site. I'm hoping to add a few friends from this post who can support me in this, and for whom I can offer support. A few more "likes" for our accomplishments are always encouraging. If you're facing a similar struggle, please friend me on here and let's see if we can't give one another a little pat on the back to keep improving. Thanks for reading.
  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    Hi I'm brad. I found out I was T2 last October. I know this may sound crazy but I see diabetes as my life saver. The life style change pushed me to lose weight , eat healthy, and take charge of life. I pushed my a1c down to 5.7. I still take pills like other T2 . Now I live life to the max I can when I see a sweet I know I can at least smell it and enjoy the memory of the tast.

    Hi Brad, Welcome!

    It's great you're taking your diagnosis seriously. Congratulations on your A1c improvement, along with your weight loss progress too, as a direct result from the healthier lifestyle changes and choices you've made. Not an easy task.


    Best wishes for your continued success!
  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    I was diagnosed at the age of 35 with type two diabetes in April and started using myfitnesspal in earnest at that time in order to lose some pounds and to try to control this new and frightening condition. I'm trying to see my new situation a turning point in my life, an opportunity to improve myself physically in a way I'd never been motivated enough to do before. Up until the diagnosis it just always seemed there were more pressing things to get done that to get myself in check physically. Diabetes has been a wake-up call. I've learned a lot about food and exercise these past three months and have made some pretty dramatic lifestyle changes. I eat wisely now. I get exercise every day (though admittedly more some days than others). Since the diagnosis, I've lost about 25 pounds and 40 overall since January 1st of this year. As of yesterday I'm down to 260 after being at 300 on New Year's Day. I hope to lose another 40 over the next twelve months and then maintain myself at 220 long term. I'm 6'3 and at this point 220 seems like a reasonable goal for a man of my height.

    Even more than that, though, I want to control my diabetes. My hope is to be able to do it without the Metformin I'm currently taking twice a day, though I'm more than willing to use medicine and even insulin as needed in order to keep my blood sugar in control. I'm in the midst of taking diabetes classes in addition to reading every book and website I can find to learn how to better keep this in check, and one of the points that the instructor has made clear is that this battle isn't about going it alone or without medicine or insulin; it's about controlling the disease and using the resources and support available to help you.

    I suppose that's why I'm here and why I'm writing this out. Up until this point, I've used myfitnesspal to record my eating and exercise but have mostly ignored the social aspect of the site. I'm hoping to add a few friends from this post who can support me in this, and for whom I can offer support. A few more "likes" for our accomplishments are always encouraging. If you're facing a similar struggle, please friend me on here and let's see if we can't give one another a little pat on the back to keep improving. Thanks for reading.

    Welcome j3haughe!

    Thanks for sharing your journey since your diagnosis. It's wonderful you're seeing your diagnosis as a turning point in your life as an opportunity to take control of your health by gaining a better understanding of what it takes to manage this chronic condition successfully by seeking out reliable sources of information.

    Congratulations on your weight loss progress since the first of the year, very commendable and I wish you continued success.
  • Hello Everyone! I just learned about the myfitnesspal yesterday at my endocrinologist's office. I will be 54 years old tomorrow, have had type 2 diabetes for 12 years. I am morbidly obese (247 lbs), and not doing a good job of trying to keep my blood sugar under control. I am hoping to find support and encouragement from this group and to be able to support and encourage others. I am tired of being misterable, depressed and just existing, I want to live life again!

    I know this will not be an easy journey, but will be worth it. I have to lose weight and start exercising, bottom line. Wish me luck!
  • bdubya55
    bdubya55 Posts: 506 Member
    Hi Breebreezmom, Welcome!

    The myfitnesspal program is a powerful tracking tool to help you achieve your nutrition goals when applied correctly. It wasn't long after I started using this program that I found a path towards weight loss and better blood sugar management by adopting healthier eating and lifestyle habits. When applied honestly and correctly this program really does work!

    This is a wonderful support group, eager to share their encouragement and experiences living with this self-managed chronic condition. Have a look around the various threads, ask questions, your experienced contributions are warmly welcomed too.

    Wishing you the same success and accomplishments I've enjoyed. The success you deserve!

    Good luck!:drinker:
  • Hi, I'm Joey. I was diagnosed with Type 2 about 120 days ago. Handling it very well. I have a blog about my journey http://thelivealittleproject.com/blogspot.com