Insulin dependent diabetic, Type 1

I think losing 100 lbs in a year is doable. That's what my game plan is for myself. That's about 2 lbs per week. If you have a lot to lose, you will likely lose more lbs than that per week right at first but then fewer as you get closer to your weight goal. I am a Type 2 Diabetic so I don't know if the ways to manage Type 1 are the same as mine. There are a ton of supportive people here though who have achieved great successes so I'm sure you will get a lot of great feedback and advice about how to get started. :flowerforyou:

I am a 42 year old insulin dependent diabetic; diagnosed 7 years ago. I have lost about 60 pounds and I'm still working on losing some more. I workout 6 days a week. Running, biking, lifting weights, and swimming. I worked with a nutritionist/diabetes educator and learned how to manage my blood sugar for my workouts and ran my first full marathon earlier this year. I was not active when I was first diagnosed. I would suggest that you start walking to build your strength up and begin to get some of that weight off. Check your blood sugar before you go on your walk and adjust accordingly. You will want to eat a snack (healthy carbs) to raise your blood sugar so you won't go low when you are on your walk. It is a delicate balance, but you can learn how to do it. Feel free to add me as a friend. I am happy to help.

First, there is a group for type 1 diabetics on here. http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/232-type-1-juvenile-diabetics

Second, when were you diagnosed with diabetes? And do you really have type 1 (you do not make insulin)? If you are a type 1, you will understand the reason I ask is because there are a lot of type 2's that believe that they are a type 1 when they start taking insulin.

Third, as you know, type 1's gain weight. The treatment methods are improving, though. When I was first diagnosed in the mid 90's, treatment was MDI. Like most at the time, I was put on the static exchange diet. Over the next year, I doubled my weight and continued to gain since.

Fourth, losing weight is possible. Losing weight quickly is not realistic, though. It is possible to start shredding the pounds like everyone else (yes, I envy normal people who can just lose weight easily and act like it is difficult, but have no idea what it is like for us)... but shortly after that happens, you will have recurring severe hypoglycemic events. This will cause you to gain back that weight fairly quickly. Set a small goal (0.5 to 1 lbs. per week) and have patience - that is the only way it will work.

Fifth, try to treat hypoglycemia with glucose tablets. They have a fairly low calorie to carb ratio, and many diabetics find it difficult to over-treat with glucose tabs.

Sixth, are you on a pump or MDI? Do you have a CGM? I suggest joining the type 1 diabetic group. Also, send me a FR if you would like and I am willing to help. Honestly, a general forum topic here is not going to be very well tailored to your question.

ETA URL for MFP type 1 group.