I am little depressed at the moment. I was really working hard on trying to lose weight and get my numbers right but it didn't work and my numbers are terrible. I lost another 10lbs and down a total of 85lbs. I am going to take the next step and see a dietitian because obviously I'm doing something wrong. My doctor is now gonna put me on jardiance☹️. I feel like they tell us lose weight and exercise, eat right and you can reverse diabetes and high blood pressure. It's not happening. My brother has no more weight to lose and is on his way to being under weight and his numbers are terrible. He is taking so many pills and now it's happening to me not to mention that I am going bald from the meds. I wish I never started taking meds to begin with and did it myself.
I too have had diabetes, and have struggled with it for over 18 years. I can only tell you that I’ve learned we are not all the same and what works for one person may produce totally different results in someone else.
I do find that exercise is an important aspect in keeping my A1c down, and you see the results within a few days. I primarily use the bike while using dumbbells, getting things done in about 30 minutes. (I’m lazy, so I try to get it out of the way sooner!) I alternate with 30 minutes of rowing or treadmill. And I make sure to get adequate protein before and after exercising (experts can’t agree when to get protein, before vs. after so I do both.)
Also, while I do keep a carb-conscious diet of 40-45 carbs per meal, I find that not consuming enough carbs can produce higher blood sugar in me, so I never follow fad diets.
Also ask about how when to check. Because I have a reverse internal blood flow and do not test on my fingers, I test 2-3 times a day, always before meals at least 4 hours after consuming anything.
One thing I am thankful for is that after all these years I do not take insulin and have full feelings in my feet (also take metanx generic supplements). I wish you well.
Hi @m12281515, I wanted to take a moment and welcome you to Mayo Clinic Connect. I am sorry to hear that your numbers are terrible despite your current weight loss. I think that 85 pounds is incredible though! That is something to be very proud of. A lot of the diet and exercise regimens for type 2 suggest a very physician controlled increase of intensity. Is this something that is being regulated by your doctor? How long have you been diagnosed with type 2?
I have been struggling with PCOS for 15 years and was diagnosed with diabetes 6 years ago. I am 46. I am seeing a doctor every 6 months but she pretty much just checks my numbers. This is why I think I need to see someone about my diet and weight. I am seriously hoping if I get down 40lbs more, which would have me at my suggest weight, that my health would be better. I was disappointed because I was doing vegan till six and I believed eating at my best. I was feeling great and energized and then my numbers were terrible. I'm not feeling as down anymore because I have already decided to go forward with seeing a nutritionist, I have kept a food diary for the last month which I think will help us figure out what the heck I'm doing wrong. I have 3 kids under 5 and I need to be alive and healthy at least for the next 30 years so I have no time to sulk lol.
I have been struggling with PCOS for 15 years and was diagnosed with diabetes 6 years ago. I am 46. I am seeing a doctor every 6 months but she pretty much just checks my numbers. This is why I think I need to see someone about my diet and weight. I am seriously hoping if I get down 40lbs more, which would have me at my suggest weight, that my health would be better. I was disappointed because I was doing vegan till six and I believed eating at my best. I was feeling great and energized and then my numbers were terrible. I'm not feeling as down anymore because I have already decided to go forward with seeing a nutritionist, I have kept a food diary for the last month which I think will help us figure out what the heck I'm doing wrong. I have 3 kids under 5 and I need to be alive and healthy at least for the next 30 years so I have no time to sulk lol.
I would agree with @amandaburnett in that your weight loss is remarkable! You should be proud of yourself for this accomplishment.
Seeing a dietician is a great idea! I had no idea how knowledgeable they are until I saw one for pre-diabetes and then later consulted with another one for IBS and a low fodmap eating plan. They are great at understanding foods and they have a teaching style that helps you understand how and what to eat. I think of them as "PTs for appetite." Teaching people to eat well with health problems is their specialty. It will be a great experience for you.
Also, as suggested by @howardm, exercise is so very important. I have a small living space and don't have room for a treadmill, etc., but I have one of those floor type foot peddlers that works your legs like an exercise bike. It is small but very effective!
I'm also wondering if you are seeing an endocrinologist or just a general doctor? Endocrinologists are remarkable in their ability to treat diabetes.
m12281515, As you are so highly motivated, I feel sure that with the right medical support team you will continue to do well. Will you post again?
When first diagnosed, I took no medicines for diabetes. Then the doctor prescribed one Metformin at night. I was starved by morning. The endocrinologist said to take two Metformin at night, and that made me nauseous. So I cut back the one pill, and after some time took two pills because the AIC was rising.
I was tired of being hungry in the night and in the morning. I just did a home test with a AIC test kit I purchased at Walmart, and I was down to 6.1, so I am going to cut back to one Metformin for the summer and eat out of my garden. My blood pressure is declining and I have cut those pills as well. I feel I am making good progress and am feeling pretty well these days. I just don't sleep well at night unless I work during the day to exhaustion. My family wants me to take it easy in life. I like feeling better and keeping the numbers low and am willing to work at it. I can't go anywhere these days. I read about several of the diabetic pills advertised on the TV and have no interest in trying them because of the risks listed. I can't say enough good about diet change. Dorisena
I didn't know that you can buy an A1c test at Walmart. Thanks for the info. I quit Metformin about 2 weeks ago. It was not done on purpose. I ran out of Metformin and wasn't able to refill. After going without it for 3 or 4 days, I noticed a change. It was if a fog had been lifted, both physically and mentally. I don't think I"ll ever take Metformin again. There seems to be little change in my glucose count. In fact I'm less hungry and my count is lower. Especially at bedtime check. It's good to be rid of all the sore muscles. I was so tired of my body always aching.
I didn't know that you can buy an A1c test at Walmart. Thanks for the info. I quit Metformin about 2 weeks ago. It was not done on purpose. I ran out of Metformin and wasn't able to refill. After going without it for 3 or 4 days, I noticed a change. It was if a fog had been lifted, both physically and mentally. I don't think I"ll ever take Metformin again. There seems to be little change in my glucose count. In fact I'm less hungry and my count is lower. Especially at bedtime check. It's good to be rid of all the sore muscles. I was so tired of my body always aching.
I was going to cut one of my Metformin pills but put it off when I got a little sick and had higher numbers, so now I am feeling very well eating veggies out of my garden and my numbers are staying low. I am feeling mentally much better and notice the difference in my thinking as well. I have lost several pounds, finally, and eat less beef, relying on fish and fresh vegetables and one serving of a multigrain bread. I attribute the good feeling to the fresh vegetables and those wonderful, fresh tomatoes every day. I must remember to purchase a variety of fresh food when the garden is finished, but right now I have lettuce, radishes, and a few beet tops to eat. I have turnips growing for my son. I have plenty of red sweet peppers and will freeze some for adding to winter recipes. I also have sweet potatoes to dig and no longer grow white potatoes. My blood pressure is lower but not down to normal yet. I stay isolated at home. Dorisena
When first diagnosed, I took no medicines for diabetes. Then the doctor prescribed one Metformin at night. I was starved by morning. The endocrinologist said to take two Metformin at night, and that made me nauseous. So I cut back the one pill, and after some time took two pills because the AIC was rising.
I was tired of being hungry in the night and in the morning. I just did a home test with a AIC test kit I purchased at Walmart, and I was down to 6.1, so I am going to cut back to one Metformin for the summer and eat out of my garden. My blood pressure is declining and I have cut those pills as well. I feel I am making good progress and am feeling pretty well these days. I just don't sleep well at night unless I work during the day to exhaustion. My family wants me to take it easy in life. I like feeling better and keeping the numbers low and am willing to work at it. I can't go anywhere these days. I read about several of the diabetic pills advertised on the TV and have no interest in trying them because of the risks listed. I can't say enough good about diet change. Dorisena
I have been on Metformin for years. My numbers have always been terrible. I have felt like I was in a fog, tired, and a bit weak. Well, a week ago I ran out of the Metformin, and couldn't afford to reorder. Guess what? The fog is gone! It just lifted from my whole body. I'm not as tired and weak as I was. Which helped get rid of the depressed feeling. Plus, I don't seem to feel as hungry all the time, like I was when taking the Metformin. Need to go in for a blood test, and I'm wondering what my Dr. will say about this, because my numbers are better too. (eating less). Marie
I was going to cut one of my Metformin pills but put it off when I got a little sick and had higher numbers, so now I am feeling very well eating veggies out of my garden and my numbers are staying low. I am feeling mentally much better and notice the difference in my thinking as well. I have lost several pounds, finally, and eat less beef, relying on fish and fresh vegetables and one serving of a multigrain bread. I attribute the good feeling to the fresh vegetables and those wonderful, fresh tomatoes every day. I must remember to purchase a variety of fresh food when the garden is finished, but right now I have lettuce, radishes, and a few beet tops to eat. I have turnips growing for my son. I have plenty of red sweet peppers and will freeze some for adding to winter recipes. I also have sweet potatoes to dig and no longer grow white potatoes. My blood pressure is lower but not down to normal yet. I stay isolated at home. Dorisena
@dorisena so you did not cut back on your metformin, you just added more fresh produce to your diet? Ahh, the joys of summer. I haven't gotten nearly enough local tomatoes this summer. The owner of the farm stand closest to us, that I always used to go to, is not wearing a mask, nor is anyone in the little building, so I won't go there and the other farm stands are quite distant.
@mummy43 Your improvements sound great. I hope the doctor will be pleased, why wouldn't he be since your numbers are better? Are you getting some exercise also? I've been told that helps with the numbers a lot too. I was on metformin when I was first diagnosed with diabetes, about 12 or 13 years ago and if I had any of the effects you mention I didn't connect them to taking metformin, but that's me - I frequently do not consider that something I am feeling may be the result of medication.
JK
@dorisena so you did not cut back on your metformin, you just added more fresh produce to your diet? Ahh, the joys of summer. I haven't gotten nearly enough local tomatoes this summer. The owner of the farm stand closest to us, that I always used to go to, is not wearing a mask, nor is anyone in the little building, so I won't go there and the other farm stands are quite distant.
@mummy43 Your improvements sound great. I hope the doctor will be pleased, why wouldn't he be since your numbers are better? Are you getting some exercise also? I've been told that helps with the numbers a lot too. I was on metformin when I was first diagnosed with diabetes, about 12 or 13 years ago and if I had any of the effects you mention I didn't connect them to taking metformin, but that's me - I frequently do not consider that something I am feeling may be the result of medication.
JK
The doctor never counsels me on my diabetes, only prescribes more pills for my blood pressure. I complain about the side effects of the pills, and he tries another one. I work on diet and exercise for my blood pressure and my diabetes. If the A
1C is below 7.00, some doctors consider that a success, but I have a goal of 6.0. I live to please me, as the doctor seems to have other issues on his mind. I only see the doctor a couple of times a year unless I am quite ill with something. I live rural and don't need to worry much about the virus because I live isolated and don't worry about outside markets. But I am becoming more "anti-pill" every year.
I am not able to eat all the produce from my garden this year and have canned 49 quarts of tomato sauce. However, I do get a little tired of cooking from scratch which is necessary due to the restaurants being limited. I share the garden with my family as well. It is the key to my health success as I have been gardening for 65 years. it is a way of life. Dorisena
Typ 2 diabetes For nine years i took the brand name gulcophage...Never had any problems with my A1C numbers stayed at 6. 18 months ago i was told i could no longer get this medication in the USA...I have 8 bottles of different medication doctors have put me on ,which my body could not tolerate the side affects. Now they want me to do the insulin shot....i have been so depressed, this past 18 months my A1C has went up to 8.2. And i cook everyday, veggie and chicken, eggs for breakfast. I feel life is over..
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I too have had diabetes, and have struggled with it for over 18 years. I can only tell you that I’ve learned we are not all the same and what works for one person may produce totally different results in someone else.
I do find that exercise is an important aspect in keeping my A1c down, and you see the results within a few days. I primarily use the bike while using dumbbells, getting things done in about 30 minutes. (I’m lazy, so I try to get it out of the way sooner!) I alternate with 30 minutes of rowing or treadmill. And I make sure to get adequate protein before and after exercising (experts can’t agree when to get protein, before vs. after so I do both.)
Also, while I do keep a carb-conscious diet of 40-45 carbs per meal, I find that not consuming enough carbs can produce higher blood sugar in me, so I never follow fad diets.
Also ask about how when to check. Because I have a reverse internal blood flow and do not test on my fingers, I test 2-3 times a day, always before meals at least 4 hours after consuming anything.
One thing I am thankful for is that after all these years I do not take insulin and have full feelings in my feet (also take metanx generic supplements). I wish you well.
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3 ReactionsI have been struggling with PCOS for 15 years and was diagnosed with diabetes 6 years ago. I am 46. I am seeing a doctor every 6 months but she pretty much just checks my numbers. This is why I think I need to see someone about my diet and weight. I am seriously hoping if I get down 40lbs more, which would have me at my suggest weight, that my health would be better. I was disappointed because I was doing vegan till six and I believed eating at my best. I was feeling great and energized and then my numbers were terrible. I'm not feeling as down anymore because I have already decided to go forward with seeing a nutritionist, I have kept a food diary for the last month which I think will help us figure out what the heck I'm doing wrong. I have 3 kids under 5 and I need to be alive and healthy at least for the next 30 years so I have no time to sulk lol.
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1 ReactionHello @m12281515,
I would agree with @amandaburnett in that your weight loss is remarkable! You should be proud of yourself for this accomplishment.
Seeing a dietician is a great idea! I had no idea how knowledgeable they are until I saw one for pre-diabetes and then later consulted with another one for IBS and a low fodmap eating plan. They are great at understanding foods and they have a teaching style that helps you understand how and what to eat. I think of them as "PTs for appetite." Teaching people to eat well with health problems is their specialty. It will be a great experience for you.
Also, as suggested by @howardm, exercise is so very important. I have a small living space and don't have room for a treadmill, etc., but I have one of those floor type foot peddlers that works your legs like an exercise bike. It is small but very effective!
I'm also wondering if you are seeing an endocrinologist or just a general doctor? Endocrinologists are remarkable in their ability to treat diabetes.
m12281515, As you are so highly motivated, I feel sure that with the right medical support team you will continue to do well. Will you post again?
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Helpful -
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1 ReactionThank you for your support. I will touch base again once I have seen the dietitian. Got an appointment next week. Very excited!!
I didn't know that you can buy an A1c test at Walmart. Thanks for the info. I quit Metformin about 2 weeks ago. It was not done on purpose. I ran out of Metformin and wasn't able to refill. After going without it for 3 or 4 days, I noticed a change. It was if a fog had been lifted, both physically and mentally. I don't think I"ll ever take Metformin again. There seems to be little change in my glucose count. In fact I'm less hungry and my count is lower. Especially at bedtime check. It's good to be rid of all the sore muscles. I was so tired of my body always aching.
I was going to cut one of my Metformin pills but put it off when I got a little sick and had higher numbers, so now I am feeling very well eating veggies out of my garden and my numbers are staying low. I am feeling mentally much better and notice the difference in my thinking as well. I have lost several pounds, finally, and eat less beef, relying on fish and fresh vegetables and one serving of a multigrain bread. I attribute the good feeling to the fresh vegetables and those wonderful, fresh tomatoes every day. I must remember to purchase a variety of fresh food when the garden is finished, but right now I have lettuce, radishes, and a few beet tops to eat. I have turnips growing for my son. I have plenty of red sweet peppers and will freeze some for adding to winter recipes. I also have sweet potatoes to dig and no longer grow white potatoes. My blood pressure is lower but not down to normal yet. I stay isolated at home. Dorisena
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Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsI have been on Metformin for years. My numbers have always been terrible. I have felt like I was in a fog, tired, and a bit weak. Well, a week ago I ran out of the Metformin, and couldn't afford to reorder. Guess what? The fog is gone! It just lifted from my whole body. I'm not as tired and weak as I was. Which helped get rid of the depressed feeling. Plus, I don't seem to feel as hungry all the time, like I was when taking the Metformin. Need to go in for a blood test, and I'm wondering what my Dr. will say about this, because my numbers are better too. (eating less). Marie
@dorisena so you did not cut back on your metformin, you just added more fresh produce to your diet? Ahh, the joys of summer. I haven't gotten nearly enough local tomatoes this summer. The owner of the farm stand closest to us, that I always used to go to, is not wearing a mask, nor is anyone in the little building, so I won't go there and the other farm stands are quite distant.
@mummy43 Your improvements sound great. I hope the doctor will be pleased, why wouldn't he be since your numbers are better? Are you getting some exercise also? I've been told that helps with the numbers a lot too. I was on metformin when I was first diagnosed with diabetes, about 12 or 13 years ago and if I had any of the effects you mention I didn't connect them to taking metformin, but that's me - I frequently do not consider that something I am feeling may be the result of medication.
JK
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Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionThe doctor never counsels me on my diabetes, only prescribes more pills for my blood pressure. I complain about the side effects of the pills, and he tries another one. I work on diet and exercise for my blood pressure and my diabetes. If the A
1C is below 7.00, some doctors consider that a success, but I have a goal of 6.0. I live to please me, as the doctor seems to have other issues on his mind. I only see the doctor a couple of times a year unless I am quite ill with something. I live rural and don't need to worry much about the virus because I live isolated and don't worry about outside markets. But I am becoming more "anti-pill" every year.
I am not able to eat all the produce from my garden this year and have canned 49 quarts of tomato sauce. However, I do get a little tired of cooking from scratch which is necessary due to the restaurants being limited. I share the garden with my family as well. It is the key to my health success as I have been gardening for 65 years. it is a way of life. Dorisena
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionTyp 2 diabetes For nine years i took the brand name gulcophage...Never had any problems with my A1C numbers stayed at 6. 18 months ago i was told i could no longer get this medication in the USA...I have 8 bottles of different medication doctors have put me on ,which my body could not tolerate the side affects. Now they want me to do the insulin shot....i have been so depressed, this past 18 months my A1C has went up to 8.2. And i cook everyday, veggie and chicken, eggs for breakfast. I feel life is over..
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Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reaction