Help Diabetes

[Bound]

We just found out today that my husband is diabetic. Any advice from other diabetic's or family of diabetics. I really just don't know anything other than don't eat stuff with sugar.

[357 mag]

I can't offer any advice, but I do want to say good luck and it is controllable..

[Bubba]

Found these sites to help explain and how to control and live with diabetes.

NDEP | The 7 Principles for Controlling Your Diabetes for Life

Diabetes: symptoms, cause, prevention, tips, complications, treatment

These are just a couple, I'm sure there are many more.

[OLDHAG]

Pills or shots? Watch weight, do what doctor says and keep something sweet on hand in case sugar drops to low. Orange juice or candy. I cook a lot out of a book called Diabetic Cooking. They have great tasting recipes and pretty easy to fix. Hang in there and you both can do what is needed to handle his diabetes. One more little thing, if he has trouble with swollen ankles, get him some diabetic socks. They are so comfortable. I buy the short ones for my self.

[NoLongerInRadioGuy]

I found out I had type 2 diabetes when I was 28 years old. The symptoms were always there, I had just never realized it. Luckily, I took the pills for a while and they were doing too good of a job. Now, I just stay away from sugars and my blood sugar stays a little bit higher than normal, but not at a dangerous level. I need to exercise more as well!

My suggestion - I dont know if your hubby is overweight, but that is the best thing for diabetics - lose weight! Cut down on carbs, eat lots of meats and veggies. Watch the fruits though - might not have sugar added, but there is a reason they taste so sweet! My doc always said diet pop is ok to drink...water is better though. Exercise will not only help shed the pounds but also help in processing sugars.

[jackknife]

Remember that starchy food turns to sugars faster. So carbs and starches can raise the blood sugar at times. Also, remember that life as you know it is not over. Sure there will be changes that need to be made but it isn't like he will never be able to have ice cream (they make sugar free!) or cookies (also good sugar free!) and even candy.

Losing weight will surely help. When in doubt about anything ask the doctor. They are there to help.

[Kodiak]

Yep the carbs will kill ya. I take 4 shots a day, 30 units novalog before meals and 70 units lantus at bedtime. Have cut out most breads, no potatos, very little pasta, and no sugar. Had and still do have trouble staying away from all the damn girl scout cookies the wife bought, all 16 frikking boxes.

[Bound]

Thanks to everyone! Sometimes it just feels like I couldn't take another hit. (and it's not even me) Right now it's very new and they are having him try pills, I guess it'll be a test period for a little while.

[jackknife]

I'm not diabetic but my dad is and our whole family was involved in the change.

The newness is scary at first. It feels confusing but once you navigate through all the information you will begin making good solid food choices. The key to to make a chain of good choices and not beat yourself up if there is a slip up. Just get back on the program and start a new chain of good food choices.

He will also need to be really honest to himself about what he is eating. Many people claim to eat healthy but give themselves so many passes that in reality they aren't eating any different. Being honest about what he is actually eating will keep him healthier as well as just not allowing excuses anymore. There is always a reason to celebrate with cake or pie. "I met that deadline at work. Let's have cake!" "I walked a whole mile today. Let's go to Dairy Queen!"

Accountability will do wonders. Trust me. Plus, when he starts to feel better it will be easier because he'll realize the benefits and not see all of the changes.

[TexKan]

There is usually some wonderful Diabetic classas available at either your local health dept or the hospital - take advantage of them and heed the very wise words of those above!! Good luck and remember it really is a doable thing!!