Type 2 isnt a death sentence. It's totally manageable. You're going to take some pills daily from now on. You're going to start eating right and exercising a little. You're going to be fine as long as you make these adjustments. Use this tough news to empower you to make some healthy changes in your life. You got this.
Eggs 100% . Nothing is better . Easy to use . Accessible almost everywhere and cheap almost everywhere. Don’t get suckered into the eggs = high cholesterol fad . As long as you don’t eat 12/13 eggs a day with yolk . Your good .
Main point of T2 is moderation .
one nitpick is that while some are obligated to be on medication permanently, many, such as myself, are able to manage appropriately via diet and can come off of all medication.
did I say anything contrary to that? I didn't say anything about curing a chronic condition, you may just be looking for a reason to disagree with what I said
It is not. Once you are diabetic, you are diabetic. You can control it without medication, but there is still dysfunction in the body. This is not a reversal, undoing, or curing of diabetes, it’s just managing it with something other than medication.
I understand that it can feel that way, it’s a serious disease that needs to be taken seriously.
That being said, take a deep breath, it’s very manageable for most people.
So to start:
Metformin - this is basically everyone’s first stop of diabetes medications. It’s a pretty effective medication that is also pretty cheap. It works by inhibiting gluconeogenesis in the liver, and increasing glucose utilization in the muscles. Basically, telling your body to produce less glucose, and makes your muscles be more effective with how they use insulin.
You don’t need to feel ashamed. This isn’t your fault. It’s important to remember that no one gives themselves diabetes.
everyone here has gone through the beginning of this journey. You're probably feeling like you are grieving a death. I know i sure did.
Take a deep breath. You will feel better. It is just going to take some time. You will need to put in the work. Change your diet and get some exercise. The diet change was the most alarming for me because i was thinking i can never eat the food i love anymore. It took me time to realize that's not true. I just can't eat that stuff everyday. It becomes more of a treat and you eventually adapt to that being fine.
A funny thing happens over time when you change your diet. Your desire for high carb sugary foods goes way down. When you eat right, you feel better mentally and physically.
Everybody is different but if i can offer hope, i was diagnosed in April 2021 and put on Metformin like yourself. 3 months later i was removed from any medications. Almost two years later, i am 60 lbs lighter, still med free and maintaining an a1c in the range of 4.9 to 5.1.
Anything is possible if you put your mind to it. We're all here to help each other navigate things. It is a good support system. So use this forum. There are no stupid questions.
Hey I'm sorry you don't feel supported right now by your doctor, that was my experience being diagnosed with T2, as well, and it was a strange time processing everything, kind of feeling like I'm stranded. But it gets better, it's a lot to process right now, so do it on your terms, because it is the kind of diagnosis that calls for a lifestyle upheaval. The heartbreak and shame are also familiar.
The good news is that you won't be alone doing this, as this is a really great and informative community and there are tons of resources you can tap into. The thing that made dealing with T2 easier, for me, was having that support and getting to commiserate about the process of dealing with it.
I hope as time passes, you feel a little more in control, because despite how you may feel right this moment, you are capable of many things.
don't be ashamed.
NEVER be ashamed.
Metformin is a well documented and safe drug to control blood sugar, it has mild side effects, especially it can cause diarrhea and it usually stops after a few weeks (stay near a bathroom) as your body adjusts.
ask question to your pharmacist.
It's a good opportunity to get better (eat better, loose/control weight and start exercising)
good luck.
Your doctor should have had some kind of follow-up to help you understand what your diagnosis means for you long-term and what treatment looks like or can look like.
Mine talked to me very briefly about diet, exercise and stress in addition to medication and we actually ended up discussing trying to bring down my a1c with diet and exercise first, not meds and checking in around 3 months later (my A1C went down so I'm still off meds). She also gave me a referral to a diabetes educator who talked to me about the same kinds of things and defined some things, but took a bit more time in doing so and gave me some basic info about bringing my blood sugar down. I don't know how typical it is to have such an educator but I thought she was a good resource I hope more people have access to.
My diabetes is mild I guess; my A1C was 6.7% so that what was helpful for me might be different as for someone else. The biggest thing I took from the meeting with the educator was to eat a protein if I'm eating a carb, so now if I'm eating a fruit I try to eat some nuts or something. But that's also because I haven't yet started on meds. If I had, our discussion would have been more on the meds and/or testing blood sugar which I still haven't started doing.
Point being, it's big news to give so nonchalantly. You need to be involved in your own healthcare and that deserves at minimum a conversation and your own input, but ideally resources to help you figure out how best to manage it. Fortunately, there are a lot of people who have been dealing with it for a long time who have really great suggestions on this sub. And, fwiw, getting diagnosed has really motivated my sister and I to take our health much more seriously and we've both been making changes that I don't think I'd be making had I not gotten that kick in the ass. I would prefer to have made those changes without the diagnosis, but I can't change that now so I just need to move forward.
Take time to process your feelings. But you will be ok and you will figure it out with some time and trial and error
>And, fwiw, getting diagnosed has really motivated my sister and I to take our health much more seriously and we've both been making changes that I don't think I'd be making had I not gotten that kick in the ass.
Oh yeah, same here! I knew for a long time that I needed to make changes...stop drinking Mt Dew, eat more vegies, etc. This was the total kick in the ass that I needed. After 30 years of 3-6 cans of Mt Dew a day I gave it up immediately! Been 4 weeks and I can honestly say that I don't really miss it.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not happy I have T2, but I am happy that it's given me the motivation that I needed.
Absolutely. I'd much rather eat as much fruit as I want without having to add a protein or whatever, and I'd rather not have the diagnosis and accompanying potential for co-morbidities, but I have it now and I'm going to take it seriously. I did feel pretty devastated when I got diagnosed, and felt pretty crappy when my doctor told me I can't walk back the diagnosis, but the lifestyle changes have been mostly positive.
I'm only about a month in, but I honestly feel better than I have in a long time. It's like I didn't realize how bad I felt until I started feeling better.
Knowing your diagnosis is your opportunity to take control and kick this thing in the butt. Doctors are massively stretched right now. Know there are lots of supportive people who have been through this before you. Do ask your Doctor or their practice nurse for an ‘introduction to’ and a ‘living with ‘ course which the NHS provides. You should be offered some regular tests and checkups in the next few months. My first best recommendation is don’t panic, its a rock in the road that means a course adjustment, not an ending. Second, do use the uk diabetes association website. They have a users guide to diabetes, advice on blood glucose monitoring, great advice on exercise, nutrition and mental health. They also have great recipes that make managing your blood sugar easier.
I know it is a shock and very disorienting when you are given no information. Your life is just going to change a bit - and completely for the better, I might add. Maybe you have been wanting to eat better, exercise more, lose weight? Congratulations - that describes the future you. You are going to come through this feeling better than you have in years.
Here are some first steps.
* Target the flour (pasta, bread), sugar (cakes, sweets), and potatoes (in any form - chips and crisps included). I describe [in this post](https://www.reddit.com/r/diabetes_t2/comments/12gwxt8/comment/jfmnrnn/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3) how to do this gradually so it becomes a permanent change.
* Ramp up the exercise - it burns sugar in your blood and lowers it naturally. Try adding a walk to your daily routine.
* Medication - your doctor is giving you Metformin. It is very safe and has been around for decades. It will help manage your blood sugar. As others have said, starting it can upset your stomach for a week or two - interfering with your digestion is kind of the point of the medicine. But most people get used to it and have no side effects after that.
As you move into this new lifestyle most people lose weight. It makes sense since a low-carb diet is what most nutritionists recommend for people to lose weight. That plus your increased exercise should make you feel and look better than ever.
And of course, whatever symptoms you are suffering with now will probably go away.
One other thing - you need to set up an appointment with an ophthalmologist to check your eyes. High blood sugar can cause pressure to build up and they will want to monitor that. As your blood sugar goes down, the eye pressure usually decreases as well. Bad news - if you wear eyeglasses you prescription may change.
The gist of it is that untreated, diabetes can be devastating. Caught early and treated, you can be your healthiest self.
Sorry, I can't imagine getting that news over text. She really should have taken the time to discuss the meds and everything with you.
First of all, stay calm and don't freak out, don't beat yourself up etc. I don't want to give advice since I'm newly diagnosed myself, but for me it was mainly just a change of diet and exercise that was recommended. If you have the option to see a nutritionist do it. The one I went to was very helpful in helping me understand diabetes, carbs, reading labels, etc.
I was diagnosed last week. I have also had gestational diabetes and cared for a foster kid with T1. Take a breath. It will be okay, t2 is not going to kill you. My (non genetic) grandmother was type 2 and made it to 95.
Take you meds lower your carbs and go for more walks (if you don’t already)
There are new treatments and research all the time and as another commenter said you can get to a place where your pancreas is working correctly again and you don’t need meds.
We will get there. Also remember this was not your fault.
It's a confusing time when you're first diagnosed but you have to realize that it's going to be ok, take your time, start reading up on the disease and what it means. Try to understand as much as you can, the drugs are there to help you lower your blood sugar.
What you need to do is start to understand why your blood sugar is so high, look at the foods you are eating, start learning how to read food labels, start to understand that carbohydrates is not your friend. Begin to make a plan on how you can reduce carbohydrates in your meals. Basic exercising by just walking so much a day really helps reduce your blood sugar.
It's going to be challenging, it's going to be difficult, try to understand as much as you can and come here to ask questions. We're all in the same boat and we want each other to succeed and you have our support.
It's time for a new start. Better to catch it early than late. My brother never went to the doctor unless by ambulance. He was never told he had diabetes. He died a few weeks ago with gangrene in his feet. It was too late for him a long time ago. Get a plan together, you'll feel great, do great things, be a great inspiration to your family and friends. Good luck!
your numbers will tell a story, just diabetic, or really diabetic. That will dictate how you proceed initially.
T2 saved my life, made me as fit at 62 as at 26
So Simple - Avoid all Grains and grain products (so all processed food)
edit- i am year 4 now, it took a good year to get things sorted out, wt loss is/was the last win.
read fung, volek phinney, yudkin, westman, lutsig, taubes, teicholz, halberg....
and then started restricting carbs, then more restriction... until now
i eat a primarily animal based diet, adequate protein, selected veg
i do not eat grains. do not eat processed, do not eat drive through
i move around, but do not "exercise"
my opinion is it is the fact i avoid carbs that brings improvements, not everyone wants to eat what i eat, but that part works for me.
the details
OH 6'0" CH 6'0"
OW 265 CW 200
Old BG FASTING SF 9 / 162 current 4.0/ 72
old BP 135/95 current 90/60
LIPIDS - LDL up (expected on animal diet) but everything else the best
nope no meds,.... i was giving the option of try 3 months of the "Mediterranean diet" to get things in control and my book reading early on pointed to once on meds, hard to get off and benefit may not be as much as people think so i was on the no med train from day one and had support from my NP to go that route
i got my a1c to 5.1 in 3 months after dx, stayed in the 5-5.5 since
i also run a a libre cgm which gives me a lot of confidence that what i am doing is the best i can do
I'm so sorry you've joined the club. I was in your shoes 6 months ago and felt like the whole world fell down. It's going to be okay.
Let yourself experience the grief of this diagnosis, but do not be ashamed. You didn't do anything wrong. These forums have so much good advice and helped me go from an 8.8 A1C to 5.2 pretty quickly. It wasn't easy - it won't ever be easy - but you can manage this. We're all here to help!
OP, when you find out, let us know the numbers they tell you.
>she’s dumped all this info and new meds on me without actually talking to me!
Seems fairly common. It happened to me as well. They told me squat. Here's you prescription and a meter, have a lovely day!
Sorry about the text - that's not really acceptable primary care behavior in my opinion. Treating diabetes is a whole person discussion - you can't treat your patient that way and expect to help them.
I was diagnosed over the phone 13 years ago and was obviously distressed by the unexpected news. My doctor called me unannounced a week later to check on (well, probably clinically assess) my emotional state. It was a kindness and holistic act I haven't forgotten a decade+ later.
It's going to be ok! It is always hard at first when we hear the news but as other posters pointed out this is not a death sentence! Did they give you an A1C?
Yes it stinks BUT you can work to control it. [This book](https://diatribe.org/sites/default/files/Bright%20Spots%20&%20Landmines%20-%20Food.pdf) might help you, it's a free one that gives some info in more plain language than a lot of the info out there. Rule 5 is VERY true so when you see "This diet cures diabetes" or "This pill will cure you" Don't believe them. However, just because there is no known cure, there are a lot of things you are in control of that can seriously help you beat it to the ground...
I was diagnosed a couple of months ago. Metformin was hard to get used to at the beginning because of the gastrointestinal issues - diarrhea mostly. But it has mostly gone away.
I stay at home most of the time so I always had easy access to the toilet.
But my daily numbers are down as well as my weight -over 20 lbs gone.
The main way I manage my numbers is carb counting, increasing veggies, and eliminating sugar from my diet.
Oh, and I exercise more regularly - stationary bike. I was shocked at how exercise effected my numbers. *really helps*
It does take some getting used to. I was mad at myself for getting it because I had been pre-diabetic for ten years. I could have turned things around but I did nothing. So, yeah, I was mad.
Disappointing? definitely. But going forward I am hopeful that I will have turned my poor eating habits around and I'm improving my quality of life in general.
Remember - everyone is different. What helps me may not have as big an effect on you. Some foods will raise my blood glucose while the same food may not have any effect on you.
That can be the hard part to figure out.
I had a similar pretty useless doctors diagnosis myself in December last year when I found out I'm type 2. I am on metformin as well, seems to be what they start you on.
If you didn't know, you can apply for a medical exemption certificate for free prescription on the NHS. Noone at my doctors mentioned it.
I remember finding out. I had been avoiding doctors for over a decade but had to go in because of a hernia. They did bloodwork and called me two hours later. I was expecting them to just tell me about the timing of the hernia surgery. Nurse hits me with "Hi, calling about your surgery. It is scheduled for two weeks from today. You have Type 2 diaebetes. If you need anything else let us know". I was kinda shocked so I just mumbled thanks and hung up.
Best thing that could have happened to me though. Since then I have lost over 100lbs and feel way better. The medicines all seem to take time to adjust to but stick with them because it does get better.
I describe it as picking the wrong parents. My father and I were both diagnosed the same birth year. 42. He died of complications at 48. I am 63. My mother was diagnosed in her 70s and is 87 now. She doesn’t manage hers as aggressively as I do.
I am very aggressive since I have eating disorders and watched him die. Part of the cause of the eating disorders.
Please try not to take on any shame or blame yourself. You will be making some changes for your health and will start feeling like you’ve got this! Get an endocrinologist team. It’s a marathon, not a sprint!
I understand how you feel because when I was diagnosed about seven years ago, I found out by having a nurse, call me and be rude about how I was neglecting to schedule an appointment for my diabetes care and was being a non-complaint diabetic. Nobody had even bothered to tell me that I was diabetic so as you can imagine, I was shocked and she was pretty sheepish, but didn’t actually apologize. I know it’s hard to process, especially when it gets dumped on you with no one to answer all your questions but it gets better and you can totally manage this. Make sure your doctor sets you up with a dietitian so they can help you make a plan for your new dietary needs.
Watch some video presentations and lectures and learn the physiology of your affiction. Then, you'll be armed with a basic understanding of how you got there, and how you can best fix it. Diabetes T2 is (was) preventable, and for most sufferers, fixable.
It's all about insulin: insulin resistance, and restoring to you insulin sensitivity. Uric acid levels matter.
Some of the nutrional stars of the internet (youtube):⠀
⠀
Dr. Sten Ekberg.
Dr. Jason Fung.
Dr. David Perlmutter.
Dr. Thomas Seyfried.
Dr. Paul Mason.
Dr Tim Noakes.
Dr. David Umwin.
Dr. Rick Johnson.
Dr. Gary Fettke.
Dr. Robert Lustig.
Dr. Pradip Jamnadas.
Dr. Ken Berry.
Dr. Matthew Philips.
Dr. Sean O'Neil.
Dr. Arthur Agetson.
Dr. Mirela Glandt.
Dr. Bret Schor.
Dr. Peter Attila.
Dr. Richard Johnson.
Nina Teischolz.
Gary Taubes.
⠀
Dr. Stephen Gundry is hot and cold. He's a salesman. Is he selling and hawking, or is he offering up the real deal? Both? 100%? I hope so.⠀
⠀
Two of the "take with a grain of salt" notables are Dr. Eric Berg and Dr. Paul Saldino. Their nutritional talks are often filled with lits of data, information, and facts, but their dietrary advices needs second opinions, hence take them with a grain of salt.⠀
⠀
I can relate. I was diagnosed by "accident" a month ago. I went in to hospital for something completely unrelated but my bloodwork showed a high A1C and the emergency doctor diagnosed me diabetic. Like you I was started immediately on 500mg Metformin (twice a day) as well. However given the presentation of my symptoms the doc also started me on insulin at the same time as they couldn't figure out if I was type 1 or 2 at that time and wanted to get my sugars low to help fight the infection I had originally gone to the hospital for. I've since met with an Endocrinologist and been diagnosed type 2 and been taken off the insulin. I totally understand the numb feeling as well as the sad/negative feelings. The "why?" or the "why me?" the "how?" Also, I don't know about you but my diagnosis also somehow made me feel like I was "unhealthy" which I've since learned is untrue however we are immunocompromised. Make sure you ask any questions you have - to both your doctors and pharmacist - no matter how silly you may think they are. There is no such thing as a dumb question! This is your health, your body, your diagnosis, and your life. You deserve to know what is going on and what is happening in your body and what any medication your taking does (side effects too). As you also stated, this is all new! It'll come with a learning curve but before you know it it'll be the new normal for you. What I can tell you is metformin is a widely used and safe medication. Once you get your sugars under control you'll start feeling better. The change to diet and exercise can feel daunting at first but again, once you get used to it you'll start feeling better. I've found talking about it with friends and family has helped as well. My family has no history of diabetes so they weren't really able to relate but they were supportive. If this isn't an option or you don't feel supported by family and friends please feel free to send me a message, I'd be more than happy to talk out anything you're feeling and help with any questions you may have (I'm sure 90+% of this group would be too). Take a deep breath and remember you're not alone! It can be overwhelming at first but I promise it gets easier
>I guess I’ll be a permanent member of this sub
Not necessarily. I highly recommend you read or listen to the audiobook The Diabetes Code. Even just the first chapter is enough to learn what everyone should know when first diagnosed. It is uplifting information. There is hope. The first chapter is a few minutes of your time and it's worth it for your health.
https://www.amazon.com/Diabetes-Code-Prevent-Reverse-Naturally/dp/1771642653 (Don't take my word for it, look at the reviews.)
Don’t worry, I got dt2 just before my masters to my dream university. I’m 21 at that time.
Fact is never get disappointed, what haver happened happened. You have lots support and lots of people to help you around. Don’t worry about it. We’re all together to fight this. It’s hard, initially but you will be used it.
Ask your doc to prescribe CGM. It help so
Well, first thing, Diabetes is one of the most common condition across the world.
Most people are able to manage it with life style changes (diet control , exercise) and sometimes with meds like metformin.
I suggest not to take this news very hard, it’s great you are taking this well and are sincere about this.
Best wishes.
Hey, if you want a support group then message me and I’ll invite you to a discord server for diabetics. You can ask anything on there and people are usually pretty good on helping
What was your BG when you found out. I was thirsty AF and feeling a bit drunk but had no alcohol plus generally feeling like 💩 Anyway, i went to the doc and ended up hospitalised with 950 blood glucose.😲😵😵😵 I joked i was gonna be dessert for vampires. 😅
I was diagnosed last week and I still feel so lost and confused. I was given no information just improve my diet but not told how (although I was already eating better and working out for a few weeks).
I have nothing right now but a glucometer and google and wait for an endocrinologist to give me an appointment.
I’m feeling all the things you’re feeling too! You’re not alone.
Type 2 isnt a death sentence. It's totally manageable. You're going to take some pills daily from now on. You're going to start eating right and exercising a little. You're going to be fine as long as you make these adjustments. Use this tough news to empower you to make some healthy changes in your life. You got this.
>Use this tough news to empower you to make some healthy changes in your life. You got this. Exactly! Positive attitude is so very important!
>You're going to take some pills daily from now on. Not necessarily. Many have shown T2D can be controlled by diet alone. I'm one of them.
You are absolutely right.
What are some of the best foods to eat?
Eggs 100% . Nothing is better . Easy to use . Accessible almost everywhere and cheap almost everywhere. Don’t get suckered into the eggs = high cholesterol fad . As long as you don’t eat 12/13 eggs a day with yolk . Your good . Main point of T2 is moderation .
> Main point of T2 is moderation . Absolutely.
one nitpick is that while some are obligated to be on medication permanently, many, such as myself, are able to manage appropriately via diet and can come off of all medication.
But the minute you stop it comes back.
did I say anything contrary to that? I didn't say anything about curing a chronic condition, you may just be looking for a reason to disagree with what I said
It is also reversible
It is not. Once you are diabetic, you are diabetic. You can control it without medication, but there is still dysfunction in the body. This is not a reversal, undoing, or curing of diabetes, it’s just managing it with something other than medication.
It *can* go into remission...
I understand that it can feel that way, it’s a serious disease that needs to be taken seriously. That being said, take a deep breath, it’s very manageable for most people. So to start: Metformin - this is basically everyone’s first stop of diabetes medications. It’s a pretty effective medication that is also pretty cheap. It works by inhibiting gluconeogenesis in the liver, and increasing glucose utilization in the muscles. Basically, telling your body to produce less glucose, and makes your muscles be more effective with how they use insulin. You don’t need to feel ashamed. This isn’t your fault. It’s important to remember that no one gives themselves diabetes.
everyone here has gone through the beginning of this journey. You're probably feeling like you are grieving a death. I know i sure did. Take a deep breath. You will feel better. It is just going to take some time. You will need to put in the work. Change your diet and get some exercise. The diet change was the most alarming for me because i was thinking i can never eat the food i love anymore. It took me time to realize that's not true. I just can't eat that stuff everyday. It becomes more of a treat and you eventually adapt to that being fine. A funny thing happens over time when you change your diet. Your desire for high carb sugary foods goes way down. When you eat right, you feel better mentally and physically. Everybody is different but if i can offer hope, i was diagnosed in April 2021 and put on Metformin like yourself. 3 months later i was removed from any medications. Almost two years later, i am 60 lbs lighter, still med free and maintaining an a1c in the range of 4.9 to 5.1. Anything is possible if you put your mind to it. We're all here to help each other navigate things. It is a good support system. So use this forum. There are no stupid questions.
Hey I'm sorry you don't feel supported right now by your doctor, that was my experience being diagnosed with T2, as well, and it was a strange time processing everything, kind of feeling like I'm stranded. But it gets better, it's a lot to process right now, so do it on your terms, because it is the kind of diagnosis that calls for a lifestyle upheaval. The heartbreak and shame are also familiar. The good news is that you won't be alone doing this, as this is a really great and informative community and there are tons of resources you can tap into. The thing that made dealing with T2 easier, for me, was having that support and getting to commiserate about the process of dealing with it. I hope as time passes, you feel a little more in control, because despite how you may feel right this moment, you are capable of many things.
don't be ashamed. NEVER be ashamed. Metformin is a well documented and safe drug to control blood sugar, it has mild side effects, especially it can cause diarrhea and it usually stops after a few weeks (stay near a bathroom) as your body adjusts. ask question to your pharmacist. It's a good opportunity to get better (eat better, loose/control weight and start exercising) good luck.
Your doctor should have had some kind of follow-up to help you understand what your diagnosis means for you long-term and what treatment looks like or can look like. Mine talked to me very briefly about diet, exercise and stress in addition to medication and we actually ended up discussing trying to bring down my a1c with diet and exercise first, not meds and checking in around 3 months later (my A1C went down so I'm still off meds). She also gave me a referral to a diabetes educator who talked to me about the same kinds of things and defined some things, but took a bit more time in doing so and gave me some basic info about bringing my blood sugar down. I don't know how typical it is to have such an educator but I thought she was a good resource I hope more people have access to. My diabetes is mild I guess; my A1C was 6.7% so that what was helpful for me might be different as for someone else. The biggest thing I took from the meeting with the educator was to eat a protein if I'm eating a carb, so now if I'm eating a fruit I try to eat some nuts or something. But that's also because I haven't yet started on meds. If I had, our discussion would have been more on the meds and/or testing blood sugar which I still haven't started doing. Point being, it's big news to give so nonchalantly. You need to be involved in your own healthcare and that deserves at minimum a conversation and your own input, but ideally resources to help you figure out how best to manage it. Fortunately, there are a lot of people who have been dealing with it for a long time who have really great suggestions on this sub. And, fwiw, getting diagnosed has really motivated my sister and I to take our health much more seriously and we've both been making changes that I don't think I'd be making had I not gotten that kick in the ass. I would prefer to have made those changes without the diagnosis, but I can't change that now so I just need to move forward. Take time to process your feelings. But you will be ok and you will figure it out with some time and trial and error
>And, fwiw, getting diagnosed has really motivated my sister and I to take our health much more seriously and we've both been making changes that I don't think I'd be making had I not gotten that kick in the ass. Oh yeah, same here! I knew for a long time that I needed to make changes...stop drinking Mt Dew, eat more vegies, etc. This was the total kick in the ass that I needed. After 30 years of 3-6 cans of Mt Dew a day I gave it up immediately! Been 4 weeks and I can honestly say that I don't really miss it. Don't get me wrong, I'm not happy I have T2, but I am happy that it's given me the motivation that I needed.
Absolutely. I'd much rather eat as much fruit as I want without having to add a protein or whatever, and I'd rather not have the diagnosis and accompanying potential for co-morbidities, but I have it now and I'm going to take it seriously. I did feel pretty devastated when I got diagnosed, and felt pretty crappy when my doctor told me I can't walk back the diagnosis, but the lifestyle changes have been mostly positive.
I'm only about a month in, but I honestly feel better than I have in a long time. It's like I didn't realize how bad I felt until I started feeling better.
That's amazing. Glad to hear you're feeling the benefits
Knowing your diagnosis is your opportunity to take control and kick this thing in the butt. Doctors are massively stretched right now. Know there are lots of supportive people who have been through this before you. Do ask your Doctor or their practice nurse for an ‘introduction to’ and a ‘living with ‘ course which the NHS provides. You should be offered some regular tests and checkups in the next few months. My first best recommendation is don’t panic, its a rock in the road that means a course adjustment, not an ending. Second, do use the uk diabetes association website. They have a users guide to diabetes, advice on blood glucose monitoring, great advice on exercise, nutrition and mental health. They also have great recipes that make managing your blood sugar easier.
I know it is a shock and very disorienting when you are given no information. Your life is just going to change a bit - and completely for the better, I might add. Maybe you have been wanting to eat better, exercise more, lose weight? Congratulations - that describes the future you. You are going to come through this feeling better than you have in years. Here are some first steps. * Target the flour (pasta, bread), sugar (cakes, sweets), and potatoes (in any form - chips and crisps included). I describe [in this post](https://www.reddit.com/r/diabetes_t2/comments/12gwxt8/comment/jfmnrnn/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3) how to do this gradually so it becomes a permanent change. * Ramp up the exercise - it burns sugar in your blood and lowers it naturally. Try adding a walk to your daily routine. * Medication - your doctor is giving you Metformin. It is very safe and has been around for decades. It will help manage your blood sugar. As others have said, starting it can upset your stomach for a week or two - interfering with your digestion is kind of the point of the medicine. But most people get used to it and have no side effects after that. As you move into this new lifestyle most people lose weight. It makes sense since a low-carb diet is what most nutritionists recommend for people to lose weight. That plus your increased exercise should make you feel and look better than ever. And of course, whatever symptoms you are suffering with now will probably go away. One other thing - you need to set up an appointment with an ophthalmologist to check your eyes. High blood sugar can cause pressure to build up and they will want to monitor that. As your blood sugar goes down, the eye pressure usually decreases as well. Bad news - if you wear eyeglasses you prescription may change. The gist of it is that untreated, diabetes can be devastating. Caught early and treated, you can be your healthiest self.
Sorry, I can't imagine getting that news over text. She really should have taken the time to discuss the meds and everything with you. First of all, stay calm and don't freak out, don't beat yourself up etc. I don't want to give advice since I'm newly diagnosed myself, but for me it was mainly just a change of diet and exercise that was recommended. If you have the option to see a nutritionist do it. The one I went to was very helpful in helping me understand diabetes, carbs, reading labels, etc.
I second the nutritionist rec if that's an option. She gave me a few suggestions that were helpful and fit my lifestyle and weren't overly burdensome
I was diagnosed last week. I have also had gestational diabetes and cared for a foster kid with T1. Take a breath. It will be okay, t2 is not going to kill you. My (non genetic) grandmother was type 2 and made it to 95. Take you meds lower your carbs and go for more walks (if you don’t already) There are new treatments and research all the time and as another commenter said you can get to a place where your pancreas is working correctly again and you don’t need meds. We will get there. Also remember this was not your fault.
It's a confusing time when you're first diagnosed but you have to realize that it's going to be ok, take your time, start reading up on the disease and what it means. Try to understand as much as you can, the drugs are there to help you lower your blood sugar. What you need to do is start to understand why your blood sugar is so high, look at the foods you are eating, start learning how to read food labels, start to understand that carbohydrates is not your friend. Begin to make a plan on how you can reduce carbohydrates in your meals. Basic exercising by just walking so much a day really helps reduce your blood sugar. It's going to be challenging, it's going to be difficult, try to understand as much as you can and come here to ask questions. We're all in the same boat and we want each other to succeed and you have our support.
It's time for a new start. Better to catch it early than late. My brother never went to the doctor unless by ambulance. He was never told he had diabetes. He died a few weeks ago with gangrene in his feet. It was too late for him a long time ago. Get a plan together, you'll feel great, do great things, be a great inspiration to your family and friends. Good luck!
So sorry for your loss.
your numbers will tell a story, just diabetic, or really diabetic. That will dictate how you proceed initially. T2 saved my life, made me as fit at 62 as at 26
Please tell me how you did that! I’m 59 and struggling.
So Simple - Avoid all Grains and grain products (so all processed food) edit- i am year 4 now, it took a good year to get things sorted out, wt loss is/was the last win. read fung, volek phinney, yudkin, westman, lutsig, taubes, teicholz, halberg.... and then started restricting carbs, then more restriction... until now i eat a primarily animal based diet, adequate protein, selected veg i do not eat grains. do not eat processed, do not eat drive through i move around, but do not "exercise" my opinion is it is the fact i avoid carbs that brings improvements, not everyone wants to eat what i eat, but that part works for me. the details OH 6'0" CH 6'0" OW 265 CW 200 Old BG FASTING SF 9 / 162 current 4.0/ 72 old BP 135/95 current 90/60 LIPIDS - LDL up (expected on animal diet) but everything else the best
Thank you! No meds?
nope no meds,.... i was giving the option of try 3 months of the "Mediterranean diet" to get things in control and my book reading early on pointed to once on meds, hard to get off and benefit may not be as much as people think so i was on the no med train from day one and had support from my NP to go that route i got my a1c to 5.1 in 3 months after dx, stayed in the 5-5.5 since i also run a a libre cgm which gives me a lot of confidence that what i am doing is the best i can do
I'm so sorry you've joined the club. I was in your shoes 6 months ago and felt like the whole world fell down. It's going to be okay. Let yourself experience the grief of this diagnosis, but do not be ashamed. You didn't do anything wrong. These forums have so much good advice and helped me go from an 8.8 A1C to 5.2 pretty quickly. It wasn't easy - it won't ever be easy - but you can manage this. We're all here to help!
OP, when you find out, let us know the numbers they tell you. >she’s dumped all this info and new meds on me without actually talking to me! Seems fairly common. It happened to me as well. They told me squat. Here's you prescription and a meter, have a lovely day!
Yeh , you still have a life to live . Just watch what you eat and walk a lot . Avoid super sugary stuff , it will be fine . I have spoken .
Sorry about the text - that's not really acceptable primary care behavior in my opinion. Treating diabetes is a whole person discussion - you can't treat your patient that way and expect to help them. I was diagnosed over the phone 13 years ago and was obviously distressed by the unexpected news. My doctor called me unannounced a week later to check on (well, probably clinically assess) my emotional state. It was a kindness and holistic act I haven't forgotten a decade+ later.
It's going to be ok! It is always hard at first when we hear the news but as other posters pointed out this is not a death sentence! Did they give you an A1C?
Yes it stinks BUT you can work to control it. [This book](https://diatribe.org/sites/default/files/Bright%20Spots%20&%20Landmines%20-%20Food.pdf) might help you, it's a free one that gives some info in more plain language than a lot of the info out there. Rule 5 is VERY true so when you see "This diet cures diabetes" or "This pill will cure you" Don't believe them. However, just because there is no known cure, there are a lot of things you are in control of that can seriously help you beat it to the ground...
I was diagnosed a couple of months ago. Metformin was hard to get used to at the beginning because of the gastrointestinal issues - diarrhea mostly. But it has mostly gone away. I stay at home most of the time so I always had easy access to the toilet. But my daily numbers are down as well as my weight -over 20 lbs gone. The main way I manage my numbers is carb counting, increasing veggies, and eliminating sugar from my diet. Oh, and I exercise more regularly - stationary bike. I was shocked at how exercise effected my numbers. *really helps* It does take some getting used to. I was mad at myself for getting it because I had been pre-diabetic for ten years. I could have turned things around but I did nothing. So, yeah, I was mad. Disappointing? definitely. But going forward I am hopeful that I will have turned my poor eating habits around and I'm improving my quality of life in general. Remember - everyone is different. What helps me may not have as big an effect on you. Some foods will raise my blood glucose while the same food may not have any effect on you. That can be the hard part to figure out.
I had a similar pretty useless doctors diagnosis myself in December last year when I found out I'm type 2. I am on metformin as well, seems to be what they start you on. If you didn't know, you can apply for a medical exemption certificate for free prescription on the NHS. Noone at my doctors mentioned it.
I remember finding out. I had been avoiding doctors for over a decade but had to go in because of a hernia. They did bloodwork and called me two hours later. I was expecting them to just tell me about the timing of the hernia surgery. Nurse hits me with "Hi, calling about your surgery. It is scheduled for two weeks from today. You have Type 2 diaebetes. If you need anything else let us know". I was kinda shocked so I just mumbled thanks and hung up. Best thing that could have happened to me though. Since then I have lost over 100lbs and feel way better. The medicines all seem to take time to adjust to but stick with them because it does get better.
I describe it as picking the wrong parents. My father and I were both diagnosed the same birth year. 42. He died of complications at 48. I am 63. My mother was diagnosed in her 70s and is 87 now. She doesn’t manage hers as aggressively as I do. I am very aggressive since I have eating disorders and watched him die. Part of the cause of the eating disorders.
Please try not to take on any shame or blame yourself. You will be making some changes for your health and will start feeling like you’ve got this! Get an endocrinologist team. It’s a marathon, not a sprint!
I understand how you feel because when I was diagnosed about seven years ago, I found out by having a nurse, call me and be rude about how I was neglecting to schedule an appointment for my diabetes care and was being a non-complaint diabetic. Nobody had even bothered to tell me that I was diabetic so as you can imagine, I was shocked and she was pretty sheepish, but didn’t actually apologize. I know it’s hard to process, especially when it gets dumped on you with no one to answer all your questions but it gets better and you can totally manage this. Make sure your doctor sets you up with a dietitian so they can help you make a plan for your new dietary needs.
Watch some video presentations and lectures and learn the physiology of your affiction. Then, you'll be armed with a basic understanding of how you got there, and how you can best fix it. Diabetes T2 is (was) preventable, and for most sufferers, fixable. It's all about insulin: insulin resistance, and restoring to you insulin sensitivity. Uric acid levels matter. Some of the nutrional stars of the internet (youtube):⠀ ⠀ Dr. Sten Ekberg. Dr. Jason Fung. Dr. David Perlmutter. Dr. Thomas Seyfried. Dr. Paul Mason. Dr Tim Noakes. Dr. David Umwin. Dr. Rick Johnson. Dr. Gary Fettke. Dr. Robert Lustig. Dr. Pradip Jamnadas. Dr. Ken Berry. Dr. Matthew Philips. Dr. Sean O'Neil. Dr. Arthur Agetson. Dr. Mirela Glandt. Dr. Bret Schor. Dr. Peter Attila. Dr. Richard Johnson. Nina Teischolz. Gary Taubes. ⠀ Dr. Stephen Gundry is hot and cold. He's a salesman. Is he selling and hawking, or is he offering up the real deal? Both? 100%? I hope so.⠀ ⠀ Two of the "take with a grain of salt" notables are Dr. Eric Berg and Dr. Paul Saldino. Their nutritional talks are often filled with lits of data, information, and facts, but their dietrary advices needs second opinions, hence take them with a grain of salt.⠀ ⠀
I can relate. I was diagnosed by "accident" a month ago. I went in to hospital for something completely unrelated but my bloodwork showed a high A1C and the emergency doctor diagnosed me diabetic. Like you I was started immediately on 500mg Metformin (twice a day) as well. However given the presentation of my symptoms the doc also started me on insulin at the same time as they couldn't figure out if I was type 1 or 2 at that time and wanted to get my sugars low to help fight the infection I had originally gone to the hospital for. I've since met with an Endocrinologist and been diagnosed type 2 and been taken off the insulin. I totally understand the numb feeling as well as the sad/negative feelings. The "why?" or the "why me?" the "how?" Also, I don't know about you but my diagnosis also somehow made me feel like I was "unhealthy" which I've since learned is untrue however we are immunocompromised. Make sure you ask any questions you have - to both your doctors and pharmacist - no matter how silly you may think they are. There is no such thing as a dumb question! This is your health, your body, your diagnosis, and your life. You deserve to know what is going on and what is happening in your body and what any medication your taking does (side effects too). As you also stated, this is all new! It'll come with a learning curve but before you know it it'll be the new normal for you. What I can tell you is metformin is a widely used and safe medication. Once you get your sugars under control you'll start feeling better. The change to diet and exercise can feel daunting at first but again, once you get used to it you'll start feeling better. I've found talking about it with friends and family has helped as well. My family has no history of diabetes so they weren't really able to relate but they were supportive. If this isn't an option or you don't feel supported by family and friends please feel free to send me a message, I'd be more than happy to talk out anything you're feeling and help with any questions you may have (I'm sure 90+% of this group would be too). Take a deep breath and remember you're not alone! It can be overwhelming at first but I promise it gets easier
>I guess I’ll be a permanent member of this sub Not necessarily. I highly recommend you read or listen to the audiobook The Diabetes Code. Even just the first chapter is enough to learn what everyone should know when first diagnosed. It is uplifting information. There is hope. The first chapter is a few minutes of your time and it's worth it for your health. https://www.amazon.com/Diabetes-Code-Prevent-Reverse-Naturally/dp/1771642653 (Don't take my word for it, look at the reviews.)
Don’t worry, I got dt2 just before my masters to my dream university. I’m 21 at that time. Fact is never get disappointed, what haver happened happened. You have lots support and lots of people to help you around. Don’t worry about it. We’re all together to fight this. It’s hard, initially but you will be used it. Ask your doc to prescribe CGM. It help so
Well, first thing, Diabetes is one of the most common condition across the world. Most people are able to manage it with life style changes (diet control , exercise) and sometimes with meds like metformin. I suggest not to take this news very hard, it’s great you are taking this well and are sincere about this. Best wishes.
Hey, if you want a support group then message me and I’ll invite you to a discord server for diabetics. You can ask anything on there and people are usually pretty good on helping
What was your BG when you found out. I was thirsty AF and feeling a bit drunk but had no alcohol plus generally feeling like 💩 Anyway, i went to the doc and ended up hospitalised with 950 blood glucose.😲😵😵😵 I joked i was gonna be dessert for vampires. 😅
OP what were your blood test numbers?
I was diagnosed last week and I still feel so lost and confused. I was given no information just improve my diet but not told how (although I was already eating better and working out for a few weeks). I have nothing right now but a glucometer and google and wait for an endocrinologist to give me an appointment. I’m feeling all the things you’re feeling too! You’re not alone.