@bab52 I am so happy to welcome you to the ICD blog! Your pacemaker is as old as mine, named Buddy. What brand is yours? Mine is a Metronic and I have a monitor on my bedroom shelf. My electrophysiologist oversees an in-office check every 6 months and monitors the more the reports. more frequently. Have you read about ICDs on the Mayo Clinic website? Here is the link: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/implantable-cardioverter-defibrillators/about/pac-20384692. In fact, if you search in your browser "Mayo Clinic ICD" you will see many other articles. We cannot give medical advice on this blog, so would it be possible to speak with your cardiologist/team about your very valid concerns on diet and exercise? Questions for your present care team may include referral to a nutritionist/dietician and cardio rehab. Let us know how your important concerns are addressed, a second opinion is warranted if you are dissatisfied with the care you are receiving. I do not know where you live, if you are near a COE (Center of Excellence), you may wish to become associated with the wonderful care you will receive there.