Margaret's son

Q:

I am trying a new diet to help control my diabetes, and worry that I'm going the wrong direction. It restricts sugar, fast carbs and processed foods and encourages slow carbs/high fiber, physical exercise. At first, my blood sugars fell and I thought it was working fine, but recently I have been getting higher readings than I expected and my weight loss has leveled off, which bothers me too. I am eating a lot of beans, eggs and unsweetened yogurt.

Amy Campbell

A:

Not necessarily. It sounds like the program that you are following encourages healthy carbohydrate foods -- and physical activity should be part of anyone’s diabetes treatment plan. Remember that you need... Read More

Liz H

Q:

After an A1c reading of 8.5, I have lost 27 lbs, exercise 3-4 times per week, drink a minimum of 64 oz. of water daily and cut out all processed sugar. My A1c went up to 8.8! Explanation?

Amy Campbell

A:

First, congratulations on your weight loss, your exercise regimen and the changes that you’ve made in your eating plan! No doubt you’ve been working very hard to make these changes. I don’t have an exact e... Read More

tazman - 118

Q:

I have a thyroid and a weight loss problem. I heard Dr.Oz say diabetics shouldn't take levothyroxin because it could be harmful. On WebMd, it says that it can prevent you from losing weight and that taking any diet medication can be harmful. I need to know because I'm having a great deal of problems losing weight. Exercising and walking is extremely painful. I limit portion sizes and have stopped eating things I shouldn’t. I'm desperate to lose weight. I'm 6'2" and 364lbs. Can you help?

Amy Campbell

A:

Levothyroxine is a replacement for the hormone that the thyroid makes to help regulate metabolism. If your thyroid is unable to make enough of this hormone, it is likely that your doctor will prescribe it... Read More

minkley1970

Q:

When I was diagnosed a year ago I had lost 30 lbs., but since then I've regained 10 lbs. I live with my girlfriend who isn't diabetic, so it's hard to eat a healthy meal. She loves pasta, potatoes and meat and likes to eat late at night. I usually do not eat past 9 p.m. or try to at least, and if I do, it's like a cucumber. Any ideas of how I can deal with this?

Amy Campbell

A:

Congratulations on your weight loss – and for keeping most of it off! It’s not uncommon to gain some weight back after you’ve lost it, and you’re smart to try and address it sooner rather than later. My main... Read More

melissa1987

Q:

Can I go on weight-loss pills? I've noticed I'm gaining weight. I am a type 1 diabetic and I'm on nova 30/70 mix. I take 2 shots a day — 12 units in the morning and 6 at supper time.

Patty Bonsignore

A:

In general, a small amount of weight gain is normal when you start insulin, particularly if your blood glucose levels had been high prior to starting the insulin. If you are getting more than just a small a... Read More

Chef Kay

Q:

Is there something I can do so my blood sugar doesn't drop too low? I work in a restaurant and I don't always have time to eat the way I should. I just don't have the time to sit and eat, so it has to be something I can do on the run. Yes, we do have fruit and veggies, but I just can't eat like that while I am cooking. I am open to any ideas you may have that will help me with that, plus help with losing some weight.

Amy Campbell

A:

Try to eat a meal before you start work. This meal should contain carbohydrate, protein and some fat to keep you filled up and prevent your blood glucose from going too low. Possible meal ideas include a he... Read More

Marie62375

Q:

I've been type 2 for more than 10 years and I am confused on a few things. 1. How does protein get into your urine? 2. Using cinnamon in your diet: does it really lower cholesterol? 3. I exercise daily and try to eat right. What is the best way to prevent/reverse the effects of diabetes? I would like to lose at least 50 lbs. My weight is currently around 230 lbs. Any suggestions?

Amy Campbell

A:

Here are answers to your questions. 1. Your kidneys filter out waste products and excess fluids. If blood glucose levels remain high for an extended period of time, the tiny vessels in your kidneys ma... Read More