Update on my recent diagnoses of t2

[Winifreds child]

First I went into a bit of panic being diagnosed t2 blood result 49 and prescribed metformin….stopped eating carbs as much as possible…then over Christmas became I’ll and ended up with pneumonia and I never suffered with colds coughs flu in the past it was awful felt very down what with the diabetes so new as well …recovering now but had no exercise for three weeks but had lost appetite and lost a bit of weight …every cloud ..had my foot check and dietician appointment just my eye test tomorrow the diabetes nurse approved I could try to reverse with diet so not starting metformin and she would let the doctor know ..my new worry is my weight loss seems to be stood still but I don’t feel I can reduce anymore I am sticking rigidly to my diet no bread potatoes pasta or rice less fruit and always small portions I need to lose at least another stone I’m back out walking and can’t manage more yet I’m worried I get tested at the beginning of march any suggestions…also I bout a kit for testing with finger prick but I can’t seem to force myself to do it it’s really ridiculous I have had some dreadful tests for various things over the years and just got on with it …I’m a quilter and stuck pins in by accident lots of times though I hate that …anyway do I need to do it ought I get used to it incase things get worse I have no problem with blood tests it’s all a bit pathetic of me anybody struggled with the weight loss I’m open to advice I am having three small meals per day

 

[Leadinglights]

First I went into a bit of panic being diagnosed t2 blood result 49 and prescribed metformin….stopped eating carbs as much as possible…then over Christmas became I’ll and ended up with pneumonia and I never suffered with colds coughs flu in the past it was awful felt very down what with the diabetes so new as well …recovering now but had no exercise for three weeks but had lost appetite and lost a bit of weight …every cloud ..had my foot check and dietician appointment just my eye test tomorrow the diabetes nurse approved I could try to reverse with diet so not starting metformin and she would let the doctor know ..my new worry is my weight loss seems to be stood still but I don’t feel I can reduce anymore I am sticking rigidly to my diet no bread potatoes pasta or rice less fruit and always small portions I need to lose at least another stone I’m back out walking and can’t manage more yet I’m worried I get tested at the beginning of march any suggestions…also I bout a kit for testing with finger prick but I can’t seem to force myself to do it it’s really ridiculous I have had some dreadful tests for various things over the years and just got on with it …I’m a quilter and stuck pins in by accident lots of times though I hate that …anyway do I need to do it ought I get used to it incase things get worse I have no problem with blood tests it’s all a bit pathetic of me anybody struggled with the weight loss I’m open to advice I am having three small meals per day

You seem to have made all the right decisions about your dietary changes and getting back to more exercise but it is early days and you will be still recovering from your bout of illness. Worrying about the test will not help your blood glucose levels and it will be what it is and once you know the result you can assess the next step.
People often reach a plateau in weight loss and then it just happens again. Sometimes eating a bit too little will make your metabolism want to conserve what it can. Increasing your fibre intake can help.

 

[silver minion]

First I went into a bit of panic being diagnosed t2 blood result 49 and prescribed metformin….stopped eating carbs as much as possible…then over Christmas became I’ll and ended up with pneumonia and I never suffered with colds coughs flu in the past it was awful felt very down what with the diabetes so new as well …recovering now but had no exercise for three weeks but had lost appetite and lost a bit of weight …every cloud ..had my foot check and dietician appointment just my eye test tomorrow the diabetes nurse approved I could try to reverse with diet so not starting metformin and she would let the doctor know ..my new worry is my weight loss seems to be stood still but I don’t feel I can reduce anymore I am sticking rigidly to my diet no bread potatoes pasta or rice less fruit and always small portions I need to lose at least another stone I’m back out walking and can’t manage more yet I’m worried I get tested at the beginning of march any suggestions…also I bout a kit for testing with finger prick but I can’t seem to force myself to do it it’s really ridiculous I have had some dreadful tests for various things over the years and just got on with it …I’m a quilter and stuck pins in by accident lots of times though I hate that …anyway do I need to do it ought I get used to it incase things get worse I have no problem with blood tests it’s all a bit pathetic of me anybody struggled with the weight loss I’m open to advice I am having three small meals per day

Sounds like you have been through the mill lately. It all sounds like you are doing the right things. As you have been so ill recently your body may be trying to hang onto the stored fat as a temporary measure.
Be kind to yourself. It can take several weeks after a bout of severe illness before your body fully recovers.
I am not keen on using a lancet to prick my finger as I don't like needles. Having said that it helps me manage my diabetes and much better than having to deal with the complications.
You really can't see the needle once it's in the device. I brace my hand against the table so I can’t flinch, but it is much finer than sewing needles or pins and hurts much less. I do find washing my hands in very warm water helps with the blood flow and you only need a tiny drop.
Don't worry about your next hba1c test. It's a few weeks away still and your previous reading is not very high.

 

[harbottle]

Don't get stressed about testing - concentrate on the lifestyle change. You've made the changes. It'll all come out in the wash in 3 months.

I was diagnosed with a hba1c of 83, and didn't do any testing for 3 months until my next hba1c, which came back normal.
I did a few tests the day after diagnosis, then decided to just concentrate on losing weight.

 

[Winifreds child]

You seem to have made all the right decisions about your dietary changes and getting back to more exercise but it is early days and you will be still recovering from your bout of illness. Worrying about the test will not help your blood glucose levels and it will be what it is and once you know the result you can assess the next step.
People often reach a plateau in weight loss and then it just happens again. Sometimes eating a bit too little will make your metabolism want to conserve what it can. Increasing your fibre intake can help.

Thank you I didn’t think of fibre I will try that and thank you for your kind words

 

[Winifreds child]

Sounds like you have been through the mill lately. It all sounds like you are doing the right things. As you have been so ill recently your body may be trying to hang onto the stored fat as a temporary measure.
Be kind to yourself. It can take several weeks after a bout of severe illness before your body fully recovers.
I am not keen on using a lancet to prick my finger as I don't like needles. Having said that it helps me manage my diabetes and much better than having to deal with the complications.
You really can't see the needle once it's in the device. I brace my hand against the table so I can’t flinch, but it is much finer than sewing needles or pins and hurts much less. I do find washing my hands in very warm water helps with the blood flow and you only need a tiny drop.
Don't worry about your next hba1c test. It's a few weeks away still and your previous reading is not very high.

Thank you for this information I was regretting posting that and I must try …I had a friend sadly she passed away sometime ago but she was t2 but it was before all of this idea of reversing it with diet she often mentioned doing the finger prick and I can actually remember my toes curling up at the thought of it so not sure where this feeling came from thank you for taking the time to reply it helps to get advice from someone who already knows

 

[saffron15]

First I went into a bit of panic being diagnosed t2 blood result 49 and prescribed metformin….stopped eating carbs as much as possible…then over Christmas became I’ll and ended up with pneumonia and I never suffered with colds coughs flu in the past it was awful felt very down what with the diabetes so new as well …recovering now but had no exercise for three weeks but had lost appetite and lost a bit of weight …every cloud ..had my foot check and dietician appointment just my eye test tomorrow the diabetes nurse approved I could try to reverse with diet so not starting metformin and she would let the doctor know ..my new worry is my weight loss seems to be stood still but I don’t feel I can reduce anymore I am sticking rigidly to my diet no bread potatoes pasta or rice less fruit and always small portions I need to lose at least another stone I’m back out walking and can’t manage more yet I’m worried I get tested at the beginning of march any suggestions…also I bout a kit for testing with finger prick but I can’t seem to force myself to do it it’s really ridiculous I have had some dreadful tests for various things over the years and just got on with it …I’m a quilter and stuck pins in by accident lots of times though I hate that …anyway do I need to do it ought I get used to it incase things get worse I have no problem with blood tests it’s all a bit pathetic of me anybody struggled with the weight loss I’m open to advice I am having three small meals per day

49 is a nudge into diabetes territory. When I was diagnosed in July with a reading of 64 I was overwhelmed. My latest hba1c is 44 but I am on medication. Im glad for you that you have the opportunity to change your diet, I am a baby with dentists and injections. When I was a teenager I desperately rubbed my skin test and avoided the jab much to my brother and sisters disdain. I have tested occasionally, and it is nothing like the fierce jab at blood doning. The finger pricker can be turned right down. Ive used it at 1 and sometimes 2 despite deciding not to change my lancet until necessary. The anticipation is the only pain. Make sure hands are warm and clean. I make a hot drink if it's cold and hug the mug before I test.
Try and be a little kinder to yourself. You are effectively convalescing.Maybe some extra fat with your protein and modest carbs. I went swimming yesterday, if you have access to a pool it's kind on your joints.
I don't know if you have more weight to lose, some people who are average weight still have fat lurking around their waistline. Check the NHS site where you can work out your bmi and it explains the waist ratio test. I have more to
lose!
In June our large village had a garden festival. One of the open gardens had quilts the owner had made on display. 20 of different types they were beautifully designed and sewn. You need to keep hold of the joy in your life.
Good luck.

 

[Winifreds child]

49 is a nudge into diabetes territory. When I was diagnosed in July with a reading of 64 I was overwhelmed. My latest hba1c is 44 but I am on medication. Im glad for you that you have the opportunity to change your diet, I am a baby with dentists and injections. When I was a teenager I desperately rubbed my skin test and avoided the jab much to my brother and sisters disdain. I have tested occasionally, and it is nothing like the fierce jab at blood doning. The finger pricker can be turned right down. Ive used it at 1 and sometimes 2 despite deciding not to change my lancet until necessary. The anticipation is the only pain. Make sure hands are warm and clean. I make a hot drink if it's cold and hug the mug before I test.
Try and be a little kinder to yourself. You are effectively convalescing.Maybe some extra fat with your protein and modest carbs. I went swimming yesterday, if you have access to a pool it's kind on your joints.
I don't know if you have more weight to lose, some people who are average weight still have fat lurking around their waistline. Check the NHS site where you can work out your bmi and it explains the waist ratio test. I have more to
lose!
In June our large village had a garden festival. One of the open gardens had quilts the owner had made on display. 20 of different types they were beautifully designed and sewn. You need to keep hold of the joy in your life.
Good luck.

Thanks for your message I’ll remember the holding a warm drink it might help …I do need to get more weight off officially a stone but if I ever manage that I think a further half a stone would benefit my health I just wish it would go from the middle of my body instead of ams legs and face but weight loss is a move in the right direction and I do have until march …just when you get on the scales same as the day before it’s frustrating …I haven’t got a pool near by but do walk every day normally and did today hopefully it will kick start the weight loss again …I see your bloods are 44 I thought you would be off medication at that level or is it lower …I’m still learning a lot …you are so right about holding onto the joy in life it’s so important as it can become scarce before you know it …thanks so much for your message

 

[saffron15]

@Winifreds child the jab i avoided was the TB one the jab was called BCG. I went from 69 to 64 in three weeks before I was officially diagnosed the two weeks later I was put on metformin and was 51 at end of September. However I was put on SGLT2 and a statin. I felt out of sorts after that and haven't been in hospital but had my first cold of the year which was a snot fest gave me my first ever sinusitis and lasted 7 weeks [ don't know if diabetes made it more likely] was on steroids for a cataract op had osteomyelitis in my finger and sky high blood pressure. Now just on drops for a macula oedema! Had blood tests for an annual diabetes review in December, despite it being so recent. That was the 44. I had an appointment to discuss the results which I made a hash of as I wanted to concentrate on my blood pressure. However I'm feeling less stressed today as I have been given an appointment with the Diabetes nurse at end of February so hope I can discuss the future and destress. I'd like to try for remission but not sure I will get the chance.
I like your name. My Dad's oldest sister was a Winifred known as Wyn and his brothers wife, our favourite aunt was also a Winifred known as Win.
,
,

 

[Winifreds child]

Thanks for your message I’ll remember the holding a warm drink it might help …I do need to get more weight off officially a stone but if I ever manage that I think a further half a stone would benefit my health I just wish it would go from the middle of my body instead of ams legs and face but weight loss is a move in the right direction and I do have until march …just when you get on the scales same as the day before it’s frustrating …I haven’t got a pool near by but do walk every day normally and did today hopefully it will kick start the weight loss again …I see your bloods are 44 I thought you would be off medication at that level or is it lower …I’m still learning a lot …you are so right about holding onto the joy in life it’s so important as it can become scarce before you know it …thanks so much for your message

49 is a nudge into diabetes territory. When I was diagnosed in July with a reading of 64 I was overwhelmed. My latest hba1c is 44 but I am on medication. Im glad for you that you have the opportunity to change your diet, I am a baby with dentists and injections. When I was a teenager I desperately rubbed my skin test and avoided the jab much to my brother and sisters disdain. I have tested occasionally, and it is nothing like the fierce jab at blood doning. The finger pricker can be turned right down. Ive used it at 1 and sometimes 2 despite deciding not to change my lancet until necessary. The anticipation is the only pain. Make sure hands are warm and clean. I make a hot drink if it's cold and hug the mug before I test.
Try and be a little kinder to yourself. You are effectively convalescing.Maybe some extra fat with your protein and modest carbs. I went swimming yesterday, if you have access to a pool it's kind on your joints.
I don't know if you have more weight to lose, some people who are average weight still have fat lurking around their waistline. Check the NHS site where you can work out your bmi and it explains the waist ratio test. I have more to
lose!
In June our large village had a garden festival. One of the open gardens had quilts the owner had made on display. 20 of different types they were beautifully designed and sewn. You need to keep hold of the joy in your life.
Good luck.

Just thought I would tell you I did the test it was 5.2 it wasn’t as bad as a prick from a sewing pin you were right …so I might do it now and again just going to research the meaning of readings

 

[saffron15]

I learned that you don't need much blood. I use my other hand to wipe first bit of blood away. Don't prick the really soft finger tip do it more to the side. 5.2 depends when you had eaten and what. I definitely reuse the lancet.
There are various strategies for tests. If you want to check your response to a meal ( I love pasta but it hits my readings) test just before you start eating then two hours after you started eating. You hope for a rise of no more than 2 to 2.5. In some ways you could ignore decimal point and round up or down. Normal before is between 4 to 7 so if your reading is before food it is fine. Some people test when they first wake up there is a thread of the readings that will show whether your readings are trending downwards but the liver can dump glucose to help you have energy for the morning so I have read it's the last reading to lower. Do what suits you eg checking how you respond to particular carbs. I have eaten cottage pie but now have half a portion with extra veg and my readings are fine. I have 10% fat yoghurt with berries and seeds or nuts for breakfast or a mushroom omlette.
Good luck

 

[Winifreds child]

Don't get stressed about testing - concentrate on the lifestyle change. You've made the changes. It'll all come out in the wash in 3 months.

I was diagnosed with a hba1c of 83, and didn't do any testing for 3 months until my next hba1c, which came back normal.
I did a few tests the day after diagnosis, then decided to just concentrate on losing weight.

Thank you for this and I hope you keep in remission…I need to lose more weight too I have good will power over food but lack patience when it doesn’t come down ….every day is a school day at the moment and learning something new about diabetes every day …my down fall was I didn’t understand carbs and spent years avoiding sweet things but I am so grateful to diabetes uk has been the biggest and best help so far you can’t beat first hand experience and advice thank you

 

[Winifreds child]

I learned that you don't need much blood. I use my other hand to wipe first bit of blood away. Don't prick the really soft finger tip do it more to the side. 5.2 depends when you had eaten and what. I definitely reuse the lancet.
There are various strategies for tests. If you want to check your response to a meal ( I love pasta but it hits my readings) test just before you start eating then two hours after you started eating. You hope for a rise of no more than 2 to 2.5. In some ways you could ignore decimal point and round up or down. Normal before is between 4 to 7 so if your reading is before food it is fine. Some people test when they first wake up there is a thread of the readings that will show whether your readings are trending downwards but the liver can dump glucose to help you have energy for the morning so I have read it's the last reading to lower. Do what suits you eg checking how you respond to particular carbs. I have eaten cottage pie but now have half a portion with extra veg and my readings are fine. I have 10% fat yoghurt with berries and seeds or nuts for breakfast or a mushroom omlette.
Good luck

Hi thank you I did the test about two and a half hours after a meal so might not have done it at the best time but at least I know I can do it again….the dietitian said if I have fruit have it with yogurt full fat but I didn’t know there was 10% yogurt so I will look for that and bear in mind next time to do the test slightly more to the side …I have started with smaller portions and more veggies as I actually think I was eating pretty healthy but a bit too much …you know I felt strong and healthy that’s part of the shock of it all and I’m pretty active…but I’m seeing a way through and where to make changes with the helpful advice on here people have been very generous

 

[Winifreds child]

Sounds like you have been through the mill lately. It all sounds like you are doing the right things. As you have been so ill recently your body may be trying to hang onto the stored fat as a temporary measure.
Be kind to yourself. It can take several weeks after a bout of severe illness before your body fully recovers.
I am not keen on using a lancet to prick my finger as I don't like needles. Having said that it helps me manage my diabetes and much better than having to deal with the complications.
You really can't see the needle once it's in the device. I brace my hand against the table so I can’t flinch, but it is much finer than sewing needles or pins and hurts much less. I do find washing my hands in very warm water helps with the blood flow and you only need a tiny drop.
Don't worry about your next hba1c test. It's a few weeks away still and your previous reading is not very high.

I did the test it was 5.2 two and a half hours after food maybe not the best time…it didn’t hurt I can do it again without all the fuss I made my hands warm first these tips are helpful thanks for the advice it’s much appreciated

 

[Leadinglights]

Hi thank you I did the test about two and a half hours after a meal so might not have done it at the best time but at least I know I can do it again….the dietitian said if I have fruit have it with yogurt full fat but I didn’t know there was 10% yogurt so I will look for that and bear in mind next time to do the test slightly more to the side …I have started with smaller portions and more veggies as I actually think I was eating pretty healthy but a bit too much …you know I felt strong and healthy that’s part of the shock of it all and I’m pretty active…but I’m seeing a way through and where to make changes with the helpful advice on here people have been very generous

I use full fat (10%) Greek yoghurt but there is a difference in flavour and texture depending on the make so you may need to try a few before finding one you like best. I actually prefer the ASDA one though the ALDI comes in second, I tried the LIDL one but found it a bit too thick.
The other thing to try are their protein yoghurts which are both low carb and low fat or the Kvarg deserts also low carb and low fat available in various flavours.
The standard time to test is after 2 hours from the start of eating. If you want to find the effect your meal has on blood glucose level then pairs of readings are the most useful so just before eating and after 2 hours.
Well done forgiving it a go.

 

[Leadinglights]

I did the test it was 5.2 two and a half hours after food maybe not the best time…it didn’t hurt I can do it again without all the fuss I made my hands warm first these tips are helpful thanks for the advice it’s much appreciated

That looks a fantastic result as what you would be aiming at is no more than 8-8.5mmol/l 2 hours post meal so you are well within that, 4-7 mmol/l before eating and morning /fasting is the aim.

 

[saffron15]

I have gleaned all my info from the forum. I have not seen a dietician. I was told my cholestral was a bit high. If yours isn't a fry up without baked beans or hash browns is good. I buy Greek yoghurt usually from M and S when I am in the city. But have had Greek style from lidl and yeo from Tesco. The suggestion on the forum is low fat can have other nasties added. I have blueberries raspberries or blackberries. Tropical fruits though yummy have a bit too much sugar.

Ive posted this link before. It has links to useful websites and videos all in one place. You have probably already checked freshwell out. I used to like porridge but haven't got round to testing how it affects me. I have bought some pasta alternatives from Holland and Barrett.

Diabetes & Metabolic Health | New Forest PCN

newforestpcn.co.uk

 

[Alan44]

Hi @Winifreds child, first things first and from what you have posted, you have no need to panic as you have done all the right things. Now and I'm jumping in here, but if you have just done a finger prick test and it read 5.2 even allowing for error, that is a great result. My norm in the morning (fasting) is 5.6 which is good (not on any meds) and in my opinion would be considered in the normal range (just). I only test in the mornings just to get a trend.

Lastly, be kind to yourself, you are doing very well

 

[Leadinglights]

I have gleaned all my info from the forum. I have not seen a dietician. I was told my cholestral was a bit high. If yours isn't a fry up without baked beans or hash browns is good. I buy Greek yoghurt usually from M and S when I am in the city. But have had Greek style from lidl and yeo from Tesco. The suggestion on the forum is low fat can have other nasties added. I have blueberries raspberries or blackberries. Tropical fruits though yummy have a bit too much sugar.

Ive posted this link before. It has links to useful websites and videos all in one place. You have probably already checked freshwell out. I used to like porridge but haven't got round to testing how it affects me. I have bought some pasta alternatives from Holland and Barrett.

Diabetes & Metabolic Health | New Forest PCN

newforestpcn.co.uk

ALDI had some black bean spaghetti and edamame bean fettuccini yesterday in the specials aisle for £1.99.

 

[Winifreds child]

I use full fat (10%) Greek yoghurt but there is a difference in flavour and texture depending on the make so you may need to try a few before finding one you like best. I actually prefer the ASDA one though the ALDI comes in second, I tried the LIDL one but found it a bit too thick.
The other thing to try are their protein yoghurts which are both low carb and low fat or the Kvarg deserts also low carb and low fat available in various flavours.
The standard time to test is after 2 hours from the start of eating. If you want to find the effect your meal has on blood glucose level then pairs of readings are the most useful so just before eating and after 2 hours.
Well done forgiving it a go.

Thank you for this I’ll give that yogurt a go …and I will do the before and after blood tests just to see