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Blood sugar levels

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happydog

happydog

Well-Known Member
Relationship to Diabetes
Type 2
I have been diagnosed with diabetes. The letter that I was sent did not say which type but as I am an adult I suspect type 2. I have not had any advice except to"keep off sugar" and I have an appointment with the practice nurse in two weeks time. I did get a collection of leaflets with my letter. As a newbie I am confused but realise that it is up to me to do what I can. I understand that my fasting blood sugar was 11.9 when I had my fasting blood test. I have started to do my own tests today using a Bayer next meter. I got a fasting reading of 8.6. Could it have changed that much? What does the difference mean? Can anyone help to shed light on this? Thank you:confused:
 
The tests you do with your meter are a snap shot and are used as a guide. The normal range is between 4 & 7. It will help you work out which foods push you high and which ones help you maintain a good level.

Dietry advice, cut down on carbs, and avoid sugary foods. AIm for 5 a day fruit and vege most of it being vege as fruit has lots of natural sugar in it. A glass of orang juice is counted as 1 of your 5 a day, but you are better off eating an orange as there is more natural sugar in a glass of juice than in the whole fruit.

The difference in your meter and the blood test, are you on medication yet? That may well be kicking in. If you are watching what you eat that will make a difference too.

Please remember you can ask as many questions as you like and someone will be along to help you. The questions help everyone as we all have different experiences and we don't all think of the same things,
 
Thank you Caroline. It is a life line to have this forum. I saw a Dr after my second fasting blood test. He did not even know why I was there and had not read any notes etc. I have a hypoactive thyroid as well and have a tablet for that now. He suggested some medication for the diabetes and statins, my cholesterol is 3.1. I said that I would like to try treating it with diet. He said OK, but you will end up on medication. I could tell that he was not pleased. He sent me a letter a few days later just saying that I have Diabetes and giving me an appointment with the practice nurse in three weeks time, that was about ten days ago. The leaflet that I had about diet was confusing as it was suggesting carbohydrates etc. I have resolved to loose a bit of weight and have worked out a low carb diet for myself. I am trying to do more exercise. I have lost 1.5 kg in three weeks. I feel really well but the Dr said "you are looking at a heart attack or stroke, so take this seriously". I don't understand as my blood pressure is 110/67, so not especially high. I have learnt so much from this site and others. Thank you all.
 
your doctor sounds as helpful as mine. Things can be very confusing, especially with diet related things. We have the wight loss group that may be able to help and there is the food/carbs questions and recipes thread.

It might pay you to ask if you can do a DESMOND course (Diabetes Education & Self Management for Ongoing and Newly Diagnosed.) I did one recently and found the reminders quite helpful and it was nice to meet others in the same boat as me.
 
Thank you Caroline for all your help. I am sad that it seems that doctors do not take this matter seriously, I don't go very often and now I know why! Thank you for the information about DESMOND. I'll certainly ask.
 
If you need more information about DESMOND, the web site is WWW.desmond-project.org.uk

I think it is mainly for professionals and trainers but it will be handy if your doctor wants to know more
 
I recommend you ask the doctor for a referral to a Diabetes Specialist Dietician. Advice from the dietician helped me get my blood glucose under control and lose weight.

Richard
 
Thank you Richard and Caroline. I will certainly ask about both of these things when I get to see the Dr on the 9th. Thank goodness for this support group. I have felt rather "alone" until I came across it.
 
After diagnosis most type 2s are left to get on with it. When I asked my doctor for more support he told me I was capeable and I'd manage nicely on my own. Then I found this forum.
 
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