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

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

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

Linda2

Q:

What would you suggest for exercise? I need to lose weight, but am experiencing high levels of lower back pain. I have arthritis in my spine and the doctor says no strenuous exercise. I am also trying the usual diet things: smaller plate, one serving, and watching the carbs. I have lost two pounds but is very slow coming off. What diet would be safe and not have the rebound effect (lose/gain back)? Also what do you think of the Medifast diet?

Amy Campbell

A:

Losing weight and keeping weight off can be challenging without including physical activity as part of your program. I’d recommend that you ask your neurologist about types of exercise that you CAN do. Whi... 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