Two out of 3 diabetics don't follow recommended diet

By John Crowley Last reply at August 11, 2009 at 2:57 pm Views 5,440 Replies 446 Likes 19

John Crowley

I read about a study at the University of Alberta, which is looking into reasons why 2 out of 3 diabetics don't follow the diet recommendations from their doctors.

I like it when we hold our own "unscientific" studies here on Diabetic Connect. I think it would be interesting to share with each other the challenges of following a healthy eating plan.

So, will you share with us your thoughts about healthy eating? First of all, tell us if you feel like you *are* following your doctor's recommendations. If you are, tell us why you feel like it's working for you.

If you're *not* following the recommendations, is it that you are not sure what you are supposed to eat at all?

Is it that you disagree with your doctor's recommendations?

Is it that you don't like the foods that are recommended?

Do you feel like you're not sure how to cook healthier foods?

Are you always on the road, eating out, and simply don't have enough control over the food you eat?

Does your family make it hard for you to follow recommendations?

I think we can come together to identify a lot of the challenges. Then let's pull together ideas for dealing with those challenges and help each other eat healthier.

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Replies (446 replies)

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  • Edie
    Edie April 25 at 7:36 am   

    When I was first told I was a Diabetic I was on the 1500 Cal. diabetic diet, that was back in 74 if I remember right. then in 03 I had major surgery and they started me on shots that was when I said the ya and ate what I wanted when and where I wanted. I gaine alot of weight after that and then in 2010 I decided I was going to stop taking the Insulin and start fighting back. I have gone back on the Calorie Diet as it is easier for me to follow than the Carb Diet. I have lost 20.2 pounds since Dec. and have no insulin shots since Dec.3,2010 if I get the weight down to where I want it by July 31,2011 but sugars not under control I will go back on one insulin and see how that does if not bringing down my numbers any better.
    I am giving it my best shot and have posted my pictures of family and self that will keep me fighting down the numbers and weight. One sister is 552 pounds one is almost 400 then I also put up my pic when I was 150 that is what I am aiming at again. I have pictures of me at 255 one at 235 and the 150 pound one on the front of the Freezer in the Kitchen which I walk by several times a day and it helps to remind me not to eat except at meal times now with 3 snacks a day one mid morning, mid afternoon and bedtime. Those Calories are added with the Breakfast , Lunch and dinner so as not to go over total Calories for the Day.

    Planning Breakfast and mid morning snack at the same time helps me to plan better same way with Lunch and mid afternoon and Dinner and Bedtime I just keep out what I am eating and drinking for snacks set aside on one shelf in the frig and on the counter with the time for Snacks paper towel laid over them to know what to grab out of the frig and off of the counter with out looking at other stuff instead. It helps alot try it for yourselves.

  • gbc43
    gbc43 April 15 at 4:37 pm   

    Following the rules is one thing, liking the food offered or put up is another but being able to afford it is the hard part. Cost make the food you can pick.
    As for eating out , read the giude to eating out .

  • Bunny Cakes
    Bunny Cakes March 23 at 5:39 pm   

    I think some people are misinformed or just think the medicine will fix the disease like everything else. Still others just don't want to change. My grandmother-in-law is the type to think the medicine will fix it, she continues to eat candy bars with almost every meal and she's on so many pills and so much insulin now I don't understand how she affords it, the non-candy she does eat is mostly carbs. I don't know if her doctor doesn't tell her to change or if she just doesn't care.

    Her son is a mix of "I don't want to change" and "The medicine will fix it." He has been my biggest challenge because he moved in with us just before I was diagnosed and when I was trying to get over my sugar addiction he thought it was hilarious to buy candy and give it to me. I never actually ate any but it made it hard those first couple of weeks. He is the types that will say "I'm diabetic I can't have sugar 5 seconds after eating half a pack of bite sized candy bars.

    But I also think there are those people who think they can't afford to eat healthy. I almost became one of these people but I have proved I can afford this and make it delicious to boot. I use coupons for everything I buy that's not meat or produce which helps me to afford better cuts of meat. and more fresh or frozen veggies. My freezer is loaded at the beginning of the month with meat and veggies I can snack on and the fridge is now loaded with "safe snacks". I do slip sometimes but generally it's just because I'm lazy or tired or in the case of tonight I'm sick and worn out and didn't have the energy to cook real meat so I made some breaded, processed chicken patties. not my best choice by far but probably better than falling asleep while cooking real chicken in the oven and burning the house down.

    My family is great and even tonight they said, "Should you really be eating that?" I love them to pieces and thank them so much for supporting me. To be honest I think they like this diet better because they have been loving the low carb dishes I've been making.

  • larry A
    larry A March 23 at 4:58 pm   

    i think the reason why 2 out of 3 don't is that their loved ones don't understand the need for the diet. as well as the person themselves. I know my son in law for a long time refused to accept he was a diabetic and therefore did not follow the diet. I to had some issues at first with my family saying it would become to exspensive to follow this diet. I thinkl if everyone would sit down and just talk about it realistically and really open up to their true feelings and emotions about the subject of being diabetic and what it means to all involved we would probably see more people following their Dr. perscribed diets.

  • Hopieland
    Hopieland March 23 at 4:06 pm   

    John! I'm so glad you asked. Diagnosed by "accident" when I had a physical for a class B driver's license, I've struggled consistently against eating the right kinds of FOOD. Finicky from early on, and a carb junkie all my life… well it cost me dearly. Type 2 isn't much better than type 1 anyway I look at it. My big waaaa is carbs. I love starch: pasta, potatoes, snacks, and homemade chocolate chip cookies are my favorite weakness. Living alone I'm not big on cooking a real meal just for myself. My thot is, I've never learned to love me enough to actually invest in my own health. Queen of the couch in the evenings, and after working half of three days a week housecleaning, then four days a week in an office, when I get home… what's for dinner isn't the question. It's what can I fix FAST. Usually ends up being some kind of red meat with noodles, rice (not often anymore) or potato for a side. Notice veggies are missing. I'll eat almost anything someone else cooks, but not so hot on my own. VERY limited food budget prevents me from hiring someone to cook for me. Stuck. That's where I am. Stuck. However… I'm finally beginning to actually WANT to change my ways. Got any suggestions for a long time lazy cook?

  • Edie
    Edie December 29, 2010 at 3:08 pm   

    Hi John I have been finding out it is not what we eat but how much of it we eat that is causing us the biggest problems. This past week I was in Florida with my Oldest Daughter and her kids at Disney World and as we had 2 meals and a snack on our Meal plan each day to eat I found eatting Breakfast and only half of my lunch taking the rest back to the room with me for Supper I have lost some more Weight am now down to 246.8 pounds not doing to bad now that I know this is how It works I am eatting the same way at home. Bill laughed at me last night as I fixed Supper and kept my portion for lunch and Supper to night. I had Taco Salad for lunch and supper last night.
    With as sick as I am not getting as much exercise as I got last week but less meals too. As soon as I am not throwing up all of the time getting rid of phlem then I will start walking out side again. Working up to 2 miles at a time. Can't tell you how far I walked in a day down there but my legs and back hurt at the end of each day took almost 4 days for the pain to stop.

  • BandonBob
    BandonBob November 19, 2010 at 10:59 am   

    When I was first diagnosed 20 years ago my doctor just told me to lose 15 pounds with no instructions at all. I looked at what could be done and as I looked I decided it would be to hard for me to lose anything eating the recommended amount of carbs. I cut out fats and sugar and lost 80 pounds and had my A1c drop from the 14.3 at diagnosis to 6.3 in six months. I have stayed with the diet that worked for me and I have never regained the weight or had my A1c get as high as 6.3 since.I know that my diet will not work for everyone but it does work for me. The only other concession I make is that I control portion size very carefully.

  • Eversinging1
    Ever­sing­ing1 November 19, 2010 at 10:40 am   

    the only thing my doc's diabetic nurse told me was to limit my carbs…15 g for snacks and 30-60 for meals. No instructions, no nutrition information..just limit carbs. Well if carbs are bad then Atkins must be good…can't stick to it. Iactually gained weight on it. So I check labels and just want to cry everytime I go to the store. EVERYTHING has too many carbs. Carrots and potatos are too starchy. Being raised in Texas/Oklahoma the food we eat down here is not compatible with diabetes. Have no idea how to eat properly. Needless to say, my BS is all over the place. And here come the holidays! lol

  • CaliKo
    CaliKo November 19, 2010 at 10:57 am   

    Carbs aren't bad. They are the body's first choice for energy. However, diabetics don't process the carbs easily, so you have to limit them to amounts your body can handle, or go on meds if your body can't process them at all. I eat 30 grams of carbs or less at each of 3 meals, and about 15 grams at each of 3 snacks. That's about 135 grams a day. And, this is important, choose good carbs. Whole grain breads, like Nature's Own (each slice is about 8 g carbs), brown rice, vegetables (you get 3 servings of non-starchy vegetables for about 15 grams carbs), fruits in moderation. Order a Calorie King booklet and start looking up what you are eating. It will help. Amazon has them: http://www.amazon.com/CalorieKing-Calorie-Car...
    Take advantage of some of those produce stands and farmer's markets. It's an advantage to have access to country food if you choose wisely.
    Be sure and include about 3 ounces of protein with 2 meals and a bit of good fats, it will help you be less hungry.
    Good luck!

  • CaliKo
    CaliKo October 12, 2010 at 2:11 pm   

    I'm one of the ones that follows my meal plan fairly closely. I only charted calories-carbs-fats-proteins the first three months, but that was long enough for me to get a good feel for how much of what I can eat. I still look up foods in my Calorie King booklet when I forget or eat something different. I think part of the reason its working is that my carbs, up to 150 g daily, consist of 4-5 servings whole grains, 3-4 servings in fruits and vegetables and 1-2 servings dairy. Almost never any cookies, cakes or other sweets, white sugar, alcohol sugar or artificial sweeteners. I will drink a glass of wine, maybe twice a week. I'm not on any meds for diabetes, and just got taken off my statin (this is a 3-month trial) and my A1c just came back a 5.7, so I'm happy. I don't know how long I'll be able to eat this many carbs, but I'm okay for now. I exercise daily, varies between 45 minutes and 2 hours.

  • AddassaMari
    Adda­ssaM­ari August 14, 2010 at 8:11 pm   

    Thanks for bringing that to our attention. I can understand why we tend not to follow recommended diet. We virtually have to give up all the "good stuff" and start eating the "good for you stuff." Frankly, all the diabetics I know in person are busy people. We are in constant motion, we live busy lives which is not always condusive to a healthy meal plan. More often than not my personal friends eat only one meal at home or in a sit down restaurant. Most meals, usually breakfast, lunch and snacks are grab n' go.

    Personally, I found it fairly easy to follow the recommended diet. But then I have some advantages, I am a trained chef, so balancing a plate is easy and I have always chosen the healtiest meals I can when eating on the go or out. Of course I sacrifice much to keep eating french fries.

    To answer you question. I have learned how to manipulate my diet to include the so-called forbidden foods. Thanks to the training I received from the dietitican, I simply choose different carbohydrates to meet my maximum per meal grams. However, I have eliminated those things, table sugar in particular, that spike my B/S. I discovered that if I exercise, I can eat virtually anything.

    I don't adhere strckly to the "diet" but practice good protion control.

    I have always prepared different meals for me and my kids. There are three of us and sometimes I actually will prepare three completely different meals. So, if I splurge or decide to chuck the recommendation out the window, I can't balme it on my kids.

    Personally, I think I do as well as I do becasue food is something I know and because I had good taining as part of my ungoing treatment.

  • [deleted]
    [deleted] May 15, 2010 at 8:58 pm   
    Edited May 18, 2010 at 11:14 am by John CrowleyCA

    This has been removed for violation of our terms of use.

  • Edie
    Edie May 16, 2010 at 6:23 pm   

    I will check your site out more fully later as I now have to get off line till tomorrow afternoon. I am saving the site to my bookmarks. Thank you for sharing with us. Will get back to you later as to how I like it or not.

  • Sinraeyan
    Sinraeyan April 29, 2010 at 10:54 am   

    I am actually considered one of diabetics that does not follow a diet… or at least I was up until a few days ago. I had been diagnosed in 2008 and told I was very close to borderline. I started keeping track of what I was eating and so the next time the doctor told me that my sugars were that of a non-diabetic. It was after that that I stopped watching my food as much. I then had to go through surgery and that did not help me. I started eating because I felt it was a reward for going through so much. Then I lost my health insurance and could not even take my medicine anymore.

    It was a few days ago that I had asked my boyfriend's aunt to test my blood sugar, I was told by the doctor that I did not need a meter, and it was 492. I did not go to the hospital we decided that we would wait till morning and see what it was then. It was 234 the next morning. The day after that it was 130 in the morning and 88 at night. I have now started eating healthier and drinking only water.

  • Edie
    Edie April 30, 2010 at 6:51 pm   

    Join us in Diet and Exercise we would really like to hear from you on there too. My sugar numbers had been going all over the board and now is starting to do better and I am even losing some weight now too.
    Keep up the good work of watching your diet and the numbers will stay down for you I hope.

  • Dev
    Dev April 4, 2010 at 6:30 pm   

    For my husband they have given the rule of 30:60. keep the intake below 30 carbs for snacks and 60 for meals. It was difficult in the beggining as our diet (Indian) we realised is carb heavy. On top of that he is vegetarian. After coming to the US we had to adjust our food habits and they became much more carb heavy for lack of time and easy to cook options. Now we have to readjust and come up with other meals that have smaller portions of rice and wheat and larger portions of Daal and legumes (beans etc). All the legumes also have carbs but they are the only source of protin for him. With all this juggling around he many times would not feel full or satiated.

    The dietician after telling her that he was vegetarian did not know how to help him. So we found the carb values of all foods and tried to figure out a good balanced diet for him that fits our lifestyle as well.

    But we still have problems. If we decide to be in the library (we are doctoral students) for the whole day we have to carry snacks and two meals. It is very difficult to find food for him that is vegetarian and low carb around the campus. He also feels like having tea and coffee and that adds to the sugar. *sigh*

    If he is frustrated with his research he munches on anything that he finds in the kitchen. Generally, resins, apricots and such stuff that we brought to bring life in his salads.

    My mother suggested some flower remedies. One of it 'Cherry Plum' is good for managing uncontrolled desires or emotions. We are going to try that to reduce his random stress eating.

  • Edie
    Edie April 6, 2010 at 5:21 pm   

    Dev;
    Please check out different sites for Meals. I found this site for you: *
    Low-Carbohydrate Meal Plans
    Get a free calorie counter, diet plans, exercise routines and more.
    www.SparkPeople.com

    The Sparks People site is a good one I am on there too sometimes.
    Check them out it may be what you are looking for.

  • Blue Angel
    Blue Angel February 17, 2010 at 10:41 am   

    Hi again, I don't have a diet I have to follow. But lately I have been eating more ,my blood sugar has been up. I been feeling better than ever and full of energy. My BS is always on the low side. Lately it's been 140's. Only thing is I don't what to gain any more weight. My weight stays the same. I'm trying to lose weight. So we will see how long I keep BS high.

  • Edie
    Edie February 19, 2010 at 11:28 pm   

    140's I wish. Mine has been higher than that for a long time. If mine was in that range I'd be happy. Try walking after meals for at least 30 mins that way you walk it off and maybe lose some weight along the way. We can only hope, Right!!!
    I have been trying to lose weight now for just over 10 years and it seems to go down 5-10 pounds just to go up 10-15 pounds later. During the winter I put on the Weight and then in Spring through the Fall I lose it some not enough to keep it off.I will keep you in my prayers that you meet your Weight Goal this year and would you please keep me in yours.

  • Blue Angel
    Blue Angel February 22, 2010 at 12:57 pm   

    I will do that. I will keep you in my prays. I hear you about the weight. I don't seem to be gaining but I'm not losing either. My sister is going to the gym and just got me a membership. I had to promise I will go on the days I can with her. I have a bad back this might help a little. If it's like therapy.I can do it with some help. Wish me luck

  • Edie
    Edie February 23, 2010 at 12:09 pm   

    Take 2 tylenal before you go and that should help you also. I know it does me on those days when I need alittle help with the pain too. I hate to use my Darvocet so I only use it when I need help to walk.

  • holisticdebra
    holi­stic­debr­a February 23, 2010 at 3:33 pm   

    check the foods u eat for any HFCS as this will raise ur blood sugars. (high fructose corn syrup)

  • Edie
    Edie February 24, 2010 at 6:25 am   

    Thank you I will check them out from now on.

  • Pat Roth
    Pat Roth February 24, 2010 at 3:58 pm   

    Thru these sites I have also learned to check candy for sugar alcohol added—-didnt give it a second thought before Turtle brought it up awhile back. Pat R

  • miss.tee
    miss.tee February 13, 2010 at 8:23 pm   

    I have always been over wight, I do what the doctor says.Finding out that the people you really love has type 2 less then 3 months a part all we (mom and my sister) did was eat at own tears(vegs, and furit) to much of that. Not enough exsurice Is what did me in. The doctors says go across the hall talk to the dietation, I fell off the wagon. This last year. I'm doing much better now. We got it together. we have the same diet. And, nothing but happy tears At first I was 245lb. now I'm 185.

  • Edie
    Edie February 13, 2010 at 9:02 pm   

    Share your Diet with us on Exercise/Diet Discussion Feb. 2010 please Maybe it will work that good for some of us others as well.
    Thank you in advance;
    Edie

  • greycat
    greycat February 13, 2010 at 4:12 pm   

    First of all, alot of us women are emotional eaters/snackers And with good reason being that men completely fail us because they fail at telling us what we want to hear ,I miss you, I love you,let's make-out, I adore you.I'm speaking for myself, but I know every single woman is going through this same thing, I'm not alone in this.

  • Pat Roth
    Pat Roth February 13, 2010 at 4:23 pm   

    You are so right, greycat!! Hugs, Pat R

  • Edie
    Edie February 13, 2010 at 7:58 pm   

    You are very right about that. When Bill doesn't get his own way in things he just shuts me out and at the same time my feelings about what he has said or did. But that is life and so we go on. I guess I 'm getting to old to play the guys games in life any more as I don't feel like I am a part of a Couple any longer, you know the 50-50 kind.

  • Anne56
    Anne56 February 14, 2010 at 7:48 am   

    Maybe you might say, "some men"…
    I say this because we all tend to lump
    folks together like "men" or "women",
    meaning All Men and All Women.
    Its so unfair to the wonderful, caring,
    evolved members of each sex. This
    simple qualification (some, many, etc.)
    makes statements much more factual
    and much less "gender beating".
    Just a thought…
    Anne

  • Edie
    Edie February 16, 2010 at 12:32 pm   

    Your right on both counts. There are good in both and bad in both men and women. I will try harder not to use those terms to mention either one.

  • txdavis1203
    txda­vis1­203 February 11, 2010 at 3:35 pm   

    Having been diagonsed only a month ago, I feel that I have followed the recommendations of my dr/nutrionist about 90% of the timeand when I did not, it was not that I disagreed with or did not like their recommendations nor of being unsure of what I am supposed to eat. Sometimes, I am not in a position where I do not have enough control over the food I eat. At times, my family does not remember to consider my condition when planning our menus (we all are adjusting), but they do not make it hard to follow the recommendations…bottom line is that this is a personal diease and I have to work it instead of it working me, it is all about choices and I pledge to work it so that I can be in control.

  • roger
    roger February 12, 2010 at 12:32 pm   

    i to am the one in control so pass the spuds aunt pam but just pass them away from me thank u

  • jayabee52
    jayabee52 February 12, 2010 at 2:00 pm   

    I like what you wrote, tx: "work it instead of it working me". That's a good way to think of it!

  • BrendaSherif
    Bren­daSh­erif February 8, 2010 at 6:36 am   

    its just too complicated.. i dont understand it :(

  • jayabee52
    jayabee52 February 8, 2010 at 1:59 pm   

    Howdy Brenda,
    WELCOME to DC!

    Diabetes can be quite a daunting subject to master, but you're in the right place to learn about what to do and why. Please hang around and read the discussions, the news reports and watch the videos. And go to your Dr appointments and follow his directions. You'll get up to speed on knowing what to do.

    Blessings
    ~James~

  • Anne56
    Anne56 February 7, 2010 at 1:11 pm   

    Interesting topic, John; and I wonder if you've gained any more perspective through the responses? After reading through, my take (however informal it is) embraces the uniqueness of each person. All the reasons that you listed in your questions appear to be valid. More so, it seems that folks use their doctors' recommendations as beginning guidelines and have moved on to adapting what works best for them. There is a whole host of reasons why one thing versus another is considered best. The "2 out of 3" figure doesn't address where any of the responders are at the moment; such as, brand new to the diagnosis or 25 years into it. Consider that both people in that spectrum would not be following the guidelines. One may not be following them YET, while another may NO LONGER be following them, based on experience and improvement.

    Again, interesting topic… Would love to hear your feedback at this point.

    Anne

  • IlynGirl
    IlynGirl February 6, 2010 at 6:33 pm   
    Edited April 29, 2010 at 5:34 pm by John CrowleyCA

    Content removed for violation of terms of use.

  • jayabee52
    jayabee52 February 6, 2010 at 11:28 pm   

    Rebecca Kai
    Please read my answer to you on your discussion thread "3 Simple Steps". It seems that you are MORE INTERESTED in selling product than you are in getting to know the people in this community. That is irritating to me and I suspect to most of us who have diabetes here on DC.
    ~James~

  • Pat Roth
    Pat Roth February 6, 2010 at 11:36 pm   

    It does irritate ME!! It sends the bells ringing and the red flags flying!! I have heard of so many juices, powders that are EXPENSIVE and the cost helps to support the seller! Sorry, I will use the approach of hard work over an EASY way out!! I have tried some and couldn't see a nickel's worth of difference—-once I quit buying from ONE FRIEND, she now ignores me and won't come or call, so I was being USED, once more!! No, Thank you!! I don't believe in such. Pat R

  • summertime21fun
    summ­erti­me21­fun February 6, 2010 at 7:30 am   

    I follow the diet because i feel so much better.
    My A1C has been in normal range.
    Every now and then i might get hamburger, fries.
    I know what will happen if i dont stay on recommended diet and i dont what to get sick or make my diabetes worse.

  • BeckyJ
    BeckyJ January 19, 2010 at 1:54 pm   

    I was just told that I need to go back to the dietician. I THOUGHT that I was eating pretty healthy but I guess not. I prepare all the meals for my parents and myself so I can only blame myself for messing up. The problem is that I have to control a lot of different problems. All meals must be low carb, low salt, low fat, and now even high protein. My Dad has Crohn's disease and pancreatitis which has it's own diet guidelines. Mom has Liver failure so there's another diet. Add it Type 2 diabetes for Me and you have yet another diet. Trying to get all of them to work together is giving me a MAJOR headache. Don't know what to make most time so just guess and hope for the best. Since my latest A1C was 11.6 I seem to being doing a pretty bad job of it! So confused. :(

  • Pat Roth
    Pat Roth January 19, 2010 at 10:08 pm   

    Oh, dear BECKY!! I so feel for YOU!! You have no easy task—-! I for one, don't even care to cook, and that is just for my husband and I—-he always has a belly ache—trying to get him to go to the DR with all of his aches and pains as it is beginning to get to me, AGAIN!! Thought that I was over that, but fatigue can really take its toll on the understanding thing!! I was searching these posts for something EASY—-celery with peanut butter, etc, NOT THAT IS NOT for my best interests, and even simple things like a baked chicken breast with potatoes, made HIM sick and made ME MAD! Sometimes I think that he is just trying to finish driving my NUTS!! Nothing I do is Right! Of course I KNOW better, but I too, get so TIRED of trying and trying only to feel that NOTHING IS RIGHT!

    In you situation, I am sure that you must be overwhelmed—and would be SHOCKED at your numbers, enough to overwhelm anyone, let alone you with everything else!! I ADMIRE you for even caring for your parents—NOT EASY in my situation, and probably NOT in most, there are always things that grate with too many in the same household!

    Maybe you can choose 2 or 3 things, eliminate the salt from one, or something else that isn't good in your situation—-have a basic menu to start with, then make gradual changes as you feel up to it!! FATIGE robs one of even being able to scramble an egg, at times——sometimes I skip meds only because I am so TIRED—can't get the water and the right pills together, to take at the right time—so may just take a few of the more important ones for that day, and try to do better the next day——Some will scream over that one, but they are not in our bodies either! Best of Luck and Health and God Bless you!! Hugs, Pat R

  • Edie
    Edie January 22, 2010 at 6:39 am   

    Becky when you see them ask them if they can help plan a meal plan that would work for all three of you. They have the training so might be able to find something to go with.
    I'll keep you in my prayers and pray for the best for both you and Pat.
    Pat I am sorry to hear about the problems you are having again. Try to fix your meal the way you like and put his meat in a different pan if baking incase to spicy for him for awhile. I sometimes have to do that for Bill. I love spicy foods but sometimes to spicy for Bill so I use less for him and fix his first then add mine after I add the extra spices for me.I put foil to seperate the foods to keep the spices away from his when I need to.
    Hope this helps you.
    Your Friend Always;
    Edie

  • AddassaMari
    Adda­ssaM­ari January 22, 2010 at 9:40 pm   

    Wow, you have a lot to deal with. It is tough creating a nutritionally balanced menu for people without chronic illnesses, not so easy for people with diabetes, so I imagine it must be triple tough when you have to include gluten-free foods to manage your Dad's Crohn's and I don't know what you do for a person with liver failure. I admire you determination to do right not just for yourself but for your parents. I hope the dietitian will be of help to you.

  • IlynGirl
    IlynGirl February 6, 2010 at 6:34 pm   

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    email me : Ilyngirl99@yahoo.comEmail Small

  • Edie
    Edie February 7, 2010 at 9:48 am   

    If it is so good why do you have to push the product. do you have any Lab tests to back up what you are telling us. I never believe anything unless there is something in black and white for me to read. Until you have the proof to back you up please stop pushing this stuff on here.
    Thank You very much!
    Edie

  • IlynGirl
    IlynGirl February 6, 2010 at 6:34 pm   

    The Miracle of Alaska !! This is Amazing. Let me Help you get Healthier and Feel Great !! It helped Me !! Puts Balance Back into your Life. Repairs,Restores,and Protects !! Help with all Life Fighting Diseases.. 100% Natural. Blood Pressure,Cholesterol,Blood Sugar Levels,Memory,Moody Swings,Hot Flashes,along with many, more. It has Helped Me and My Family. 3 Simple Steps.
    Check it out : www.Kyani.Net/Simplicity
    email me : Ilyngirl99@yahoo.comEmail Small

  • Edie
    Edie February 13, 2010 at 7:50 pm   

    What are your BS numbers at this time and what is the highest yours has ever been. I would like some information on how it has helped you in your fight to control your Sugar. Lets say from a year ago to now.

  • IlynGirl
    IlynGirl February 6, 2010 at 6:34 pm   

    The Miracle of Alaska !! This is Amazing. Let me Help you get Healthier and Feel Great !! It helped Me !! Puts Balance Back into your Life. Repairs,Restores,and Protects !! Help with all Life Fighting Diseases.. 100% Natural. Blood Pressure,Cholesterol,Blood Sugar Levels,Memory,Moody Swings,Hot Flashes,along with many, more. It has Helped Me and My Family. 3 Simple Steps.
    Check it out : www.Kyani.Net/Simplicity
    email me : Ilyngirl99@yahoo.comEmail Small

  • Dev
    Dev April 4, 2010 at 6:15 pm   

    We have the same problem. Not as complex but my husband need a low carb diet for his big D and I have my dietery restrictions too. We generally come up with some things that both of us can eat, may be in different quantities and then a supplementary thing that is separate for us. Earlier we used to prepare meals that were good for both of us but the list of what we could eat became so short and frustrating. We also make it work for us by changing the quantity of different things. For example if there is pasta I eat more of it and he eats half of my quantity and more of salad etc.

    Also, we create a tentative menu for the whole week. So when we are cooking we don't get frustrated thinking up a recipe to satisfy both of us. My sister calls it separating the management and labour. You think and plan beforehand and when it is time to eat or cook just do as per the plan without thinking. This has reduced a lot of our agonising about what to eat everyday.

  • Blue Angel
    Blue Angel January 18, 2010 at 7:32 pm   

    My doctor tdidn't put me on a diet. He said for me to eat what ever I can . Because on a restrict die already because I'm allergic to fruit & vegatables as I stayed before but I never mention all of the other foods am allegic to. He sent me to an allergics for that reason .IF I could I would show all the foods am allergic to. Soybean, Yams, (beef, turkey,nuts,)Etc.Just to name a lot. So for me I eat what I can . Another thing who want to eat six meal a day? That too much eatting how can you lose weight if you have to eat all day? My sugar stay on the lows. I'm good if gets in the 80's. So maybe we all can find solutions for eatting right.Hopefully.

  • Pat Roth
    Pat Roth January 18, 2010 at 10:56 pm   

    Yes, "to each his own"! Hugs, Pat R

  • Edie
    Edie January 19, 2010 at 1:16 pm   

    The last 2 days I have only ate when hungry and am doing so much better not as large portions as before either. Have gotten some foam plates and they are smaller than my dinner plates are and it is working out great now. my BG levels for the past 3 days have been 150 when I checked them. So I must be doing some thing right finally. Not hungry like I was and not as tired either. Am starting to have more energy too. Got most of my cleaning done in less than 3 hours this morning. I feel great now.

  • Edie
    Edie January 15, 2010 at 6:42 pm   

    Check with the Hosp.nearest you and see if they are taking new Patients with any of the Doctors in there.
    Interview a few of them and see which one you like and which one listens to you completely. Then pick out your new Doctor. That is how I got the Doctor I am now with. Hopefully he stays being a Dr.

  • cc9
    cc9 January 15, 2010 at 6:46 pm   

    absolutely. as a consumer you have rights so shop around. good luck.

  • Edie
    Edie January 15, 2010 at 7:06 pm   

    Hi cc9 how are you doing? I am feeling alot better than I was this past weekend. I have been working on a new project it is not turning out the way I want it to but it is by me, so it is made with love if not perfection.
    I am sending another pic of it so far. not complete yet but getting there slowly.
    Edie

  • cc9
    cc9 January 15, 2010 at 7:17 pm   

    nice. what is it? a quilt? love to see the pic. have a good one edie.

  • Edie
    Edie January 17, 2010 at 4:16 pm   

    No this one is going to be a baby bunting for a lady at church. I just hope she likes it. Later I am going to make a pieced heart quilt single bed for both of her girls after I refine my heart making.

  • daziedag
    daziedag January 14, 2010 at 12:39 pm   

    My boyfriend is the one who does all the cooking. I think he likes the fact that i have more than a few pounds on me. I don't really know what i should be eatting. I do know that i need a new doctor. I don't feel she's helping me. She just give me the dirty look. I can't seem to find another doctor. can some recommend a good doctor in NYC.

    I work full time, go to school part time. i come home late, i try to give up the crabs at night, but it's not easy. i have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, my glucose is 220…

    i need help… somebody help me..

  • AddassaMari
    Adda­ssaM­ari January 14, 2010 at 1:09 pm   

    Hi dazie, and welcome. You are in the right place to get the help you need. We have some very helpful and knowledge people here. You might want to start by looking at the "News & Articles", search for diet. You will find some very informative and educational material as a good foundation for creating your own eating plan. Also check out this discussion for some ideas of where to start.http://www.diabeticconnect.com/discussions/49...

    As for the doctor, well, I am in Texas so I can't help but I am sure you will get plenty of advice as to how to get the best out of your physician.

    Again, welcome..

  • Pat Roth
    Pat Roth January 14, 2010 at 7:47 pm   

    I had always thought if I treated my Dr with respect, they would treat me the same!! Not, so am now learning to spit out EXACTLY what I do mean, and do not sugar coat it, not so afraid that I will make them mad!! I got to thinking (ouch!) to SPEAK up and if I FEEL like I am being misunderstood, say, no, that is nOT what I meant and try again. Hopefully it will work and get me out of this Dr snit!! I know that it is partly me.

  • AddassaMari
    Adda­ssaM­ari January 14, 2010 at 8:01 pm   

    One would think that a doctor's visit included not only the physical check-up but a dialog, exchange of information. But from some of the different posts I have read, it seem more and more doctors are treating patients like items on a conveyor belt..stick this part on and move on. The days of actually "talking" to doctors seem to be over. Yea, Pat, patients have to put the "patient" back into "doctor-patient" relationship. If they don't listen, fire them. Because if they don't hear what you say, they are not treating YOU, they are treating the symptoms of a medical condition.

  • Deb-G
    Deb-G January 14, 2010 at 9:03 pm   

    Its all superficial diagnosing…

    They have so many patients they have limited time and its just a daily conveyor belt…prescribe a pill…next!

    lol

  • Pat Roth
    Pat Roth January 14, 2010 at 10:52 pm   

    I have read that Drs must be careful and NOT get too emotionally caught up in their patient's illnesses as it drains their energy's!! Maybe so, but what about the pain that the patients have to live with, it too is DRANING, especially when no one SEEMS to CARE! That only intensifies the physical problems!! I keep preaching, MODERATION, but it is easier said than done! PR

  • jayabee52
    jayabee52 January 14, 2010 at 11:53 pm   

    Howdy Dazie and likewise, welcome to DC!
    You say you need help because you don't know what you should be eating. Perhaps this may help: http://www.diabeticconnect.com/discussions/88...;
    I pray this helps you get started in the right direction. Along the left side of the discussion pages there's a tab for discussions about "diet". You might find a lot of information there. There's also another rather in depth discussion of diet in the News articles section, here's the link for that: http://www.diabeticconnect.com/news-articles/.... I pray this helps you.

    You also write "I try to give up crabs at night" do you mean "carbs", or are you talking about shellfish? (LoL!) But I am guessing you just misspelled carbs.

    You might want also to try starting your own discussion thread asking for Dr recommendations from people from NYC. Couldn't hurt!

    Best regards ~James~

  • Deb-G
    Deb-G January 15, 2010 at 9:53 am   

    lol James…I totally got a chuckle out of that typo too haha

  • bobbibrat
    bobbibrat January 13, 2010 at 10:00 pm   

    i do try to follow my drs orders about eating but i feel that they have giving me to much to eat in one day. i eat healthy love veg and fruits. not really into sweets never have been. but i did notice when i ate all the food they wanted me to i lost 60 lbs. i have been trying to follow the schedule but its really hard . also my dr likes the fact i drink FUZE water. she said she was at a diabetic conference and they had water and FUZE for them to drink. its low in sugar and carbs and really tastes good. :)

  • cc9
    cc9 January 13, 2010 at 10:03 pm   

    FUZE whats that?

  • Pat Roth
    Pat Roth January 13, 2010 at 10:17 pm   

    It is a bottled drink, looks like this Vitamin water bottles, Sports drinks,I haven't drank it, afraid I couldnt handle it!! Buz, fuz—where would I end up?? PR

  • bobbibrat
    bobbibrat January 13, 2010 at 10:24 pm   

    its actually very good. try the one with watermelon yummo :)

  • AddassaMari
    Adda­ssaM­ari January 13, 2010 at 10:39 pm   

    I like the entire Fuze line,but my favorites are the Fuze Refresh Peach Mango and the Strawberry Guava. Have you tried the energized, I like the Goji Berry and drink all the ones in the Slenderize line.They also have a tea line with a diet green tea that has 0 carbs.

  • ALHanel
    ALHanel January 13, 2010 at 10:33 pm   

    I would really like to know what your doctor told u to eat. My doctor doesn't really talk to me about much of anything. I try to talk to her about my diet, and my feet, and concerns, but she just blows me off.

  • AddassaMari
    Adda­ssaM­ari January 13, 2010 at 10:41 pm   

    Sounds like you need to be shopping for a new doctor. You do pay for advice and their time, you should be getting both.

  • Pat Roth
    Pat Roth January 13, 2010 at 10:51 pm   

    Boy, Amen to THAT one!! I wish all of my Drs could be as kind and caring as my cancer surgeon!! Too bad that one has to get to THAT point to find a Dr that FITS!!! pr

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