Need Help with blood sugar and diet

valjac · 02-17-2004, 07:22 PM

Hi all.
I have been diabetic for about 4 years now, and it seemed that after being put on Avandia, Glucophage, and Glucotrol XL, my sugars were within a good range (107 or less at fasting testing). On my last visit, my level was 231, and I had not been doing anything different. The endo increased my Avandia from 4 to 8 mg and started me on Zocor for cholesterol. Immediately I got sick and did a complete body swell. I couldn't even wear shoes for a week! So, he told me to stop the Avandia for a week and start again with the 4 mg dosage.
The distressing thing is that I have been low carbing for a month now, and have not lost any weight. I use Glucerna for breakfast, eat salad or cottage cheese for lunch and a low carb dinner with 2-3 veggies and a protein, usually fish. I feel tired most of the time, but I don't know why. Someone told me that I'm not eating enough, but since my clothes don't fit the way they should, I am desperate to lose weight.
I had a heel spur, so working out hasn't been in my life for about 7 months. I am a teacher and stand a lot, and that's been about all of the exercise I can deal with right now. But I need some advice.
Right now I feel as though nothing I do makes a difference with my weight or blood sugar level. Has anyone gone through anything similar?

valjac

StarMaiden · 02-18-2004, 03:10 AM

Sweetie, I'm so sorry, that sounds so frustrating! I'm new to diabetes, only had it since last August. I'm talking glucophage, and I know that helps some, but I have to say, the thing I notice makes the most difference in keeping my glucose steady, is exercise. I walk a few miles every day.

I don't know enough about the concept of "starvation mode" but I know some of the other girls who post here do. But it sounds to me like you may be eating too few calories, and your body is reacting by refusing to lose any weight. Why don't you post this same topic in the Diet and Exercise Folder, and you'll get the attention of some of the ladies who would know more....try titling it, "Too few calories while on Met, and no weight loss?" Post the same thing you posted here, and ask if anyone can comment on "starvation mode". I hope someone has the answer for you.

I know part of the answer is going to be, that even while on glucophage, you still have to exercise to lose. It helps you use your insulin better, but you have to exercise to burn off the energy it makes available. Good luck, and I hope you get your glucose back down!

cystermoon · 02-19-2004, 04:54 PM

I don't have any solutions to your dilemma though I can certainly relate to the frustration. I have been dieting and exercising and not losing any weight at all. I am only on glucaphage. I lost 57 pounds when I was first put on the glucaphage but have gained about 25 back since then.

It is very frustrating. I am trying to do everything right and I feel like what's the point? It doesn't seem to be working. I guess we just have to stick with it and remember that it isn't going to be an easy road to travel, but at least we're not traveling the road alone.