Hello from a somewhat confused Newbie!

[MelR]

I was diagnosed with Type 2 last September via a Glucose tolerance test and HbA1c readings of 48 and 49, so I am just over the cusp of being Diabetic. After a bit of delay, I was prescribed Metformin and received some rather dire warnings about the possible side effects, but thankfully so far they have not materialised!
There is a great deal of conflicting and confusing information out there, particularly with regards to Carb consumption, but this website is clearly a go-to place for advice and support.
I am not sure if you are allowed to promote or advertise, but I was placed on the NHS Xpert Diabetes management course by the Practice Diabetes Nurse, which I have found very helpful indeed, especially the comprehensive manual handed out as part of the course. The Carb and Cal counter book has also proved to be a valuable tool.

 

[grovesy]

Many here use that book and or the app.

 

[Felinia]

DESMOND, X-Pert and OVIVA are all courses recognised by the NHS and provide excellent information along with this website. I too am surprised you were put on Metformin. My GP practise won't prescribe it until you are 60+ HbA1c. Their policy is reduce by diet, weight loss if necessary and exercise. It worked well for me, going from 57 to 48 in 3 months, with not a pill in sight, so no side effects to worry about.

 

[Drummer]

I can't understand there being conflicting information about carbs.
Type twos can't cope with carbs, so avoid starchy foods and sugar - that about sums it up in a nutshell.

 

[Tee G]

Hi and welcome, you certainly have come to the right place for support and insight. I was like you just over the cusp at 51 - was given "to cut out all 'obvious' sugar" and would retest in 3. Got 47 - But ruined it over Xmas - But Dr saw this as a temp glitch & gave another 3 mths.. I cleared out the larder, ditching anything in 'hidden' sugars like tomato ketchup, sauces etc. I eat only veg that grow above the ground as it seems to me these are generally lower in carbs than other root veg. I dont go 'low fat' as it usually has too much sugar/salt (i have to watch my blood pressure). I keep carbs like potatoes, bread, rice & pasta (whether brown or white) to a minimum. Its made me concentrate and plan nutritious and varied meals... I have lost weight which is great. And I ensure the changes I make will be sustainable for me..
There's loads of threads on here and topic around food, exercise and all sorts im sure you will find interesting.

 

[ianf0ster]

Hi, Although people (now) talk about T2 diabetes remission or reversal, it's really the case that (at least for the majority) we will always have an intolerance to Carbs. Thus if controlling your Blood Glucose by dietary means, choose a 'Way Of Eating' that is both enjoyable and works - because it is probably going to be for the rest of your long and healthy life !

 

[everydayupsanddowns]

Welcome to the forum @MelR

Great that you’ve already had access to an education resource that you found helpful.

You might find some of the suggestions on the ‘useful links’ thread add to your growing understanding, including Maggie Davey’s letter, and Gretchen Becker’s book, both of which have helped many people on the forum over the years to understand their diabetes better.

https://forum.diabetes.org.uk/board...for-people-new-to-diabetes.10406/#post-938458

If you’d like to undertake your own experiments to see how your body is reacting to the food you are eating, and which of the recommendations you’ve received work best for your individual biochemistry, gut biome and metabolism, you might consider getting hold of a BG meter and using a framework as suggested in Alan S’s Test Review Adjust, to gradually tweak your food intake to reduce post-meal spikes:
https://loraldiabetes.blogspot.com/2006/10/test-review-adjust.html

Good luck, and keep us posted with how you are getting on 🙂

 

[CathyB]

Hi and welcome 🙂