Still in shock!

[Denise Carter]

Hi, I'm 45 and have inherited hyperlipidemia which means I have fasting lipid tests regularly, which usually include liver function tests and fasting glucose. I rang and was pleased and was told my cholesterol had come down from 14 to 10.9, one of my liver enzymes was a bit high but was told everything else was ok. Shock when I visit my GP and he says we need to do a glucose tolerance test as your fasting glucose came back at 7.8. Had that test which showed my glucose before as 8.9 and 13.6 afterwards, then had to have the hb1ac test which confirmed type 2 diabetes. In complete shock, had no symptoms to speak of. Put on metaformin twice a day and have to see diabetes nurse to check my eyes, feet etc. Very confusing especially about what to eat as I'm already on a low fat diet, is it cabs I just need to watch? Thanks in advance x

 

[Northerner]

Hi Denise, welcome to the forum 🙂 Sorry to hear about your diagnosis It can be very confusing to begin with, but yes, it is chiefly carbs that you need to watch out for, as these are what will raise your levels the most and the quickest - this is the reason why it is a glucose tolerance test - glucose is one of the things most likely to raise your levels very quickly, a non-diabetic person would be able to deal with this, but if you have diabetes your levels will climb much higher.

I would suggest starting a food diary and counting up the amount (in grams) of carbs you are consuming each day. Then I would suggest looking into something called the GL diet - not a weight loss diet, but a diet which uses food combinations and choices that will have a slow and steady effect on your blood sugar levels. The GL Diet for Dummies is a good introduction.

Also, have a read of Jennifer's Advice and Maggie Davey's letter, which will hopefully clarify what it is all about. Please ask any questions you may have - nothing is considered 'silly'! It's a serious condition, but it is one that can be controlled well, so it is something that you can feel positive about the future with 🙂

 

[Denise Carter]

Thank you Northerner, I will certainly read those books, need as much information as I can get x

 

[Northerner]

Thank you Northerner, I will certainly read those books, need as much information as I can get x

You're welcome 🙂 Forgot to add, Type 2 Diabetes: The First Year by Gretchen Becker is excellent, and highly recommended by our members 🙂 There's a lot to learn, but take your time to absorb it - don't feel you need to get everything right from Day 1 🙂