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Staying Motivated for the Long Haul
Healthy Living | Last Active: Jan 29, 2023 | Replies (499)Comment receiving replies
Greetings. I am beginning a search for people I can discuss my current healthy lifestyle project with. This is my first attempt on-line so I expect a significant learning curve to be successful at this. I am type 2 diabetic, ( I have read that some would refer to me as a type 1.5 as I am on long and short acting insulin as well as meds.) 74 years old, obese and have been living a very sedentary life for years. I am currently working on changing to a more active life along with a healthy diet. My efforts are threefold - nutrition, physically active and mentally strong. The main tool I am using is following a daily routine which is showing signs of being beneficial. I also am logging daily activities including meals, steps, glucose readings, blood pressure and I have a doctor do lab tests every three months. I do a lot of on-line research and am hoping to learn from others experiences as I continue to improve my lifestyle
Replies to "Greetings. I am beginning a search for people I can discuss my current healthy lifestyle project..."
@bulgebattler Welcome to Connect. Many of us are battling the same or similar battles.
I too was significantly overweight when I was diagnosed with diabetes about 10 or 12 years ago. Initially I was on metformin but I no longer need it.
I try to follow the carbohydrate limitations, and I exercise about six days a week. Initially I started with water aerobics and using a recumbent bike. Both of those are highly recommended due to low impact. I have progressed to using the gym in my health club with about six or seven different pieces of equipment plus the elliptical. I was using the treadmill but it started bothering my shins.
I also used/use MyFitnessPal. It really helped me, along a fitness tracker to keep me motivated. Right now I have gained a few pounds back so I need to get back to using MyFitnessPal daily. I love that it tracks the nutrients like carbs and sodium.
It sounds as if you are very motivated and on track. Motivation is the biggest key to staying consistent I think. I hope that sciatica does not keep you from being able to exercise. Perhaps a physical therapist could help you work out a program of exercises that would not make that worse.
JK
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Greetings to you, too, bulgebattler. I feel inspiration as i read your 1st sentence! I can see that you are already applying many proactive habits with the goal of improving your lifestyle.
I have someone that I want you to meet. Her name is Carol, and you can read about her and say 'Hi' to her. She has some good ideas to share with you.
Turning on the Lights: Meet @retiredteacher
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/page/about-connect/newsfeed/turning-on-the-lights-meet-retiredteacher/
Here is the 12 week walking program that she participates in. I think they have just started a new cycle, but you can join anytime!
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/lighten-your-limbs-with-friends/