How do you put on weight

[EmmaL76]

I was diagnosed three weeks today with LADA, and started using insulin. I was informed that the only side effect was weight gain which I was pleased about. I am 8 stone 10, and 5’7”, so would ideally like to be a bit heavier. I feel like I am eating less to help stabilise my BS but would like advice how to bulk up. thank you

Elizabeth

Same! I’m little taller but only a smidge heavier than you. At my age (44) it’s not a good look to be skin and bones. I’m now a connoisseur of peanut butter! Still waiting for my butt to reappear tho! Tried a no carb pizza base the other night. I’d imagine I would of had a similar culinary experience if I topped a piece of kitchen towel and baked it !

 

[DaveB]

Diabetic or not, I think we all have slightly different needs and tolerances @DaveB Even something simple like the differences between sexes or ages. If you weren’t Type 1, I assume something similar might have been the case for you - that you needed to watch carbs?

The phrase “a normal diet” might be too simplistic or general, but nobody with Type 1 should be limiting their food to such an extent that they can’t gain weight.

Interestingly, if you’re saying that you have some degree of insulin resistance, my consultant would call you “Type 1 and a half” - that is, Type 1 with Type 2 traits (I don’t remember exactly how she phrased it). I do think there are more sub-types of diabetes than we currently label.

The interesting thing is that I appear to have very little insulin resistance as measured on the gym equipment which measures both body fat and visceral fat. My BMI is 22, So I don't fit any obvious pattern. As you say, the simple T1/T1.5/T2 rules don't always fit.

 

[Inka]

Yes, different ‘varieties’ of Type 1 fascinate me eg why do some people get it later in life, etc. Insulin resistance can be caused by other things as well as body fat eg pregnancy or diet.

I can’t remember how many carbs you eat a day but there are calculations you can do with your insulin and carbs to check your sensitivity if you’re interested.

 

[EmmaL76]

Well that makes me fascinating then inka would you mind elaborating on other possible cause of insulin resistance that you know of.I believe I’m a 2 . I have insomnia since the age of about 16 and had a serious amount of stress and when my cortisol was tested it was over double the upper limit. Possible cause ?

 

[Inka]

There are a few and I’m no expert.These are some that come to mind @EmmaL76 - pregnancy, PCOS, and steroid use.

 

[Inka]

Sorry @EmmaL76 Just saw your question about cortisol. Stress is connected to higher blood sugar, and also I believe Cushings can cause high blood sugar too, but I presume that and related hormonal conditions have been ruled out?