Realistic timeframe for normal levels?

[MancVandaL]

Hi, I'm T2, only diagnosed this month. My reading was 15 and I'm determined to get them down. I'm on a diet to lose weight, which is working so far and exercise every day for at least 30 mins. I'm also on Glimepiride 2mg tablets, which I take with my main meal, once a day.

I know I can't have a definitive answer to this but how long should I expect to get my levels down to normal, none diabetic (or just above) levels? If I stick to what I'm doing. Only a rough guide so I don't really try to kid myself. I'd love my next reading to be on the nail, but I'm realistic.

How long did it take you?

 

[Mark T]

The correct answer is "How long is a piece of string"...

But it really depends on what you define as the success criteria for reaching non-diabetic levels.

Is that a HbA1c of less than 5%? Is that eating a pre-diagnosis meal including pudding and not going out of the "normal" range?

Even after 2 years, normalising my weight (not that it was really high) and being more active - my body's reaction to eating various foods does not match my (non-diabetic) wifes.

However, I seem to recall I was in the bounds of well controlled (<6.5% HbA1c) within the year after diagnosed. But ultimately if you drop your average levels too fast you can actually do harm - so it's not a sprint to set the record time!

 

[LeeLee]

How long did it take you?

I rejoined Slimming World just after the years of neglecting 'diet and exercise' bit me on the bum and I had to start metformin. In the first 6 months I lost 4 stone and achieved an HbA1c of 5.9, just within normal range. It can be done!

 

[MancVandaL]

Thanks for replying.

It's good to hear it can be done in months, rather than years, which is what I was hoping for. The less time I damage my body the better things will be in the end. I'm determined to get the average down to 'normal' levels as soon as I can. It's been a culture shock for me so far, but there are people that CHOOSE to live like I do atm, so it's not the end of the world. Just not what my world was.

Thanks again. 🙂

 

[trophywench]

Well it's bit like giving up alcohol if your an alcoholic, or heroin if you're addicted to that - cos carbs are pretty addictive.

You may think it's difficult but at the same time you know it makes total sense!

 

[happydog]

I am a fellow type 2 diagnosed last September BG 18. My recent HbA1c was 5.4, so improving. People on this forum have been wonderful. Supportive, friendly and with so much knowledge. I did not have a clue and got scant help from the medical people who were rather negative and very keen to put me on medication. I have used diet and exercise and have kept an eye on the carbohydrate intake. It won't happen overnight but you will get there if you persevere. Ask questions here and you will get lots of help. This forum is a lifeline. Good luck with it. 🙂

 

[Davids]

Hi - I m also type 2 - diagnosed in August this year. Like you I was a bit impatient to get the levels down. People on here said to be patient - they were really helpful.

Levels have dropped from around 11 to average around 7. I would like them to be better but realise this is a long haul - and seem to have hit a brick wall at the moment. Like you I am dieting and exercising regularly. I have cut out most carbs. Weight loss has stopped at 17 lbs and bg seems to be stuck too although I am doing all the same things.

Someone on here said it is a marathon - not a sprint - so I try to bear that in mind!!

Best wishes