Diabetes.Blog.com

1 - Hi everyone! I guess I'll be the first to post here since it was my idea. If anyone has questions or comments about losing weight please put them here. I can use all the new ideas I can get. Annie (Comment this)

2 - Hi, I'm in the market for snacks that are low-carb, low calorie and low-fat. So far I've come up with sugar-free jello and eggs whites. Any other favorite ideas out there? Pat in ID (Comment this)

3 - Pat in ID , Do you like beef jerky? It is one of my favorite snacks. SMM (Comment this)

4 - Is anyone trying Alli? I read that the diet in the book is very good and user friendly. I am going to look at the book. I thought that taking Alli may keep me motivated to stick to the diet, or suffer the consequences of the side effects. I am interested in others' experiences. Thank you, SMM (Comment this)

5 - Hi all,
I am on my second month of byetta, and am not showing weight loss, the endo is wanting me to switch to a pill that will do the same thing. I really dont want to, I really believe I can loose weight if I can figure out how. I am eating like a Bird, and still maintain a 285lb frame.

for instance yesyerday, my fbg was 91 for breakfast, I ate a tomato sandwich on toasted wheat, light mayo. Nothing else. my 2 hour bg was 134. at lunch I I had another tomato sandwich, nothing else... it went to 150. by supper it was down to 109. at which time I ate a thin Fresh roasted turkey sandwich. bg went to 130.

this am I got up and had a fbg of 82.

I am doing everything right, I just cant loose. this is my everyday eating habits. but no losses. What am I doing wrong. I am asking becaue there are those of you here htat have been soooooo sucessful.

Thanks in advance

 (Comment this)

6 - Doc, Byetta10 (2x) Glucaphage 500/50 (2x),Are you eating enough? I have been told never to eat less than 1200 calories. At your current weight you should probably eat at least 1500 calories, at least. How about 1800? Also add a walk if you can, or even walking in place at home. Start slow and work up. I have lost 12 pounds on Byetta in 6 weeks, but not as much as some report. It is definitely not falling off, and it seems to be slowing. I am at 204 pounds so I am going to try to stick to 1200 calories of the healthy stuff, and do some sort of exercise every day. Maybe we can encourage each other. SMM (Comment this)

7 - Pat in ID , I don't eat any snacks under 15-20 carbs so I'm not sure you would be interested. One thing I do though is eat tuna fish or chicken white meat wrapped in lettuce or baby spinach when I need to eat some protein. Sometimes I add tomato, onions and green pepper to make it more filling. If you're interested in snacks that have 15-20 carbs let me know and I'll post them. Annie (Comment this)

8 - SMM, I'm not taking any diet supplement. I inquired about Alli but my doctor and pharmacist are both against it. They would rather I make better food choices on my own. They were also concerned because you have to limit the fat so much and fat is important to a healthy diet. What does your doctor think about Alli? I wish I could help more. Annie (Comment this)

9 - Doc, I don't think you are eating enough food. You are probably in starving mode right now. When I weighed 350 I tried eating only 1000 calories and I gained until the nutritionist told me to add more calories. You also aren't eating enough of a varied diet. I think you should ask your doctor for a referral to a nutritionist. A professional can help you figure out the diet you need to be healthy and lose weight. Good luck. Annie (Comment this)

10 - Annie in New York, byetta 5 x2, 1000mg Metformin er x2, and other asst non diabetes meds,

Hi everyone just to let you know Annie had a great tip for me.... when you order at a restaurant have the waiter box half of the meal before he ever delivers it to the table..... SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE... I tried it last night and everyone looked at me as if I were nuts.... but you know what.... I stopped when I was FULL..... a huge step forward for me.... recognizing the full feeling is a new experience... I know that sounds really dumb but it is... and knowing to STOP when you feel that.... is wonderful to have that control...... THANKS
gary (Comment this)

11 - Doc, Byetta10 (2x) Glucaphage 500/50 (2x),
Doc, we are taking the same drugs, except I take 4 of the glucaphage..... when do you take the glucophage???? I switched mine to lunch and it seems to be working better.... I have also the last week added two walks a day morning and evening... 20 to 30 min each.... it is making a difference..... I have not weighed yet, but I know I have lost some..... you might want to put a bit more protein in your diet.... more balance would be a very good thing.... I am at 370 and boy am hoping the weight starts going down... actually when first on byetta I GAINED.... but I was playing around and eating way to much and not stopping when full... after a lifetime recognizing that full feeling is a new experience.... GOOD LUCK and keep at it.... cant wait to hear more from you and wish you success....
its a tricy balance isnt it....
thanks for posting
gary (Comment this)

12 - SMM, When I weighed 350 I ate 2000 calories to lose weight. I lost 1 and 1/2-2 pounds most weeks. I think your 12 pounds lost in 12 weeks is perfect. Losing faster is unhealthy and hard to keep off. I was told to eat 1500 now that I am under 220 but find that a little difficult with the appetite suppression of Byetta. The more I lose the lower the calories I will need to eat. Keep up the great job. You should be very proud of yourself. Remember everyone's weight loss slows down but I'm sure you will see the weight come off again. Be patient with yourself. I recently gained 21 pounds when I was taken off Byetta 10 for 6 weeks. I was upset but decided not to give up and once I was put on the 5 dose I started to lose again. Next Monday I find out what my weight really is. I'll post the number even if I gain. Annie (Comment this)

13 - Gary, I'm so happy my tip helped you. I'm sure we aren't the only ones who have trouble knowing when we are full. Thanks for sharing. Annie (Comment this)

14 - Gary, I also gained weight when I started on Byetta. I weighed 300 and 4 weeks later I was 350. Helping others know this might stop someone from giving up on Byetta. The trick is knowing when to stop. Most of us have trouble with that. Doesn't it feel great to know you are helping others? Keep up the great work and post often. Annie (Comment this)

15 - DOC - it's REAL important to eat the calories you need to sustain your body weight. Without doing so - y our body feels like it is being starved and HOLDS ON to the weight. And, when you exercise, and burn MORE calories - you need to eat MORE. Not necessarily more carbs - but MORE. I've read the studies on it and can provide you with the article if you like - it's a fine line - and difficult to bring up your calories without bringing up the carb count - but it's doable!! Don't starve yourself and I bet you will lose MORE once your body realizes you are being kind to it. (Comment this)

16 - Annie in New York, - I agree, Annie. I eat a 15 carb snack once a day and make sure to eat a little bit of protein with it so it lasts a bit longer in my system. I try to choose healthier 15 carb snacks - and not empty calories. (Comment this)

17 - GK, I ALSO use that strategy and it works beautifully!! Another strategy that works is looking up the nutritional info online for restaurants. Besides for the actual websites of the restaurant chains - there are several websites that have the links to this information. One of my favorites is www.dietfacts.com. They have many restaurant chains listed. Another tip I use so I can portion out in advance is for things like cereal - I will bag them up in advance in portions I know are acceptable. Then when I am in a rush I don't have to count on my eye to remember - or use the excuse that I don't have time to measure. People who eat pretzels, nuts, etc, also can use this for those snacks. (Comment this)

18 - Wanted to share a great resource or two for those who are interested. Both are online newsletters I receive and enjoy. One is from the TV program dLife for your diabetes life. The link is http://www.dlife.com/.

The other, is www.hungrygirl.com. She gives tips on eating healthfully - not necessarily low carb but always healthy. And fun to read.

Hope this helps.

 (Comment this)

19 - Judy, I try not to eat empty calories also but sometimes I want something different. I often eat a small serving of sugar free, fat free ice cream or frozen yogurt in a small cone. I buy kids cones that are very tiny. Usually 3 is a serving but I find one enough with the frozen treat. An easy way to control my portions and carbs. Why not share some snack ideas? I know I for one can use all the ideas I can get. Annie (Comment this)

20 - Annie in New York, byetta 5 x2, 1000mg Metformin er x2, and other asst non diabetes meds,
Annie, I am so glad to hear you had the same thing and the same feelings..... you are very successful and to know that someone successful went and is going thru the same things... well, it helps! It is 11:20 and just got in from my second walk of the day...... 35 minutes.... it was MUGGY out there but I kept going..... thanks for sharing and the encouragement....
gary (Comment this)

21 - Judy Byetta5 2x, Fortamet1000 2x, Amaryl 1g 1x,
Judy good idea, I love nuts at night, and it is a diaster if I carry the can in with me...... last two nights I have put them in a little cup, closed the can and put it back in the cupboard...
like the cereal idea.... thanks,
gary (Comment this)

22 - Judy Byetta5 2x, Fortamet1000 2x, Amaryl 1g 1x,
Judy, I also just bookmarked dietfacts... what a great site...... thanks for the tip!!
gk (Comment this)

23 - Gary,I just finished using my mini bike. I stopped at 30 minutes because I am so tired from answering all these posts. The mini bike is great because I get to sit in my favorite chair and type on the laptop. I tried to go for a walk after dinner with my husband but I couldn't breathe and had an asthma attack. I think I'll wait for better air next time. I'm so proud that you are keeping up with your walks. But don't overdo it in this weather. I have to finish my lesson plans for tomorrow and then it's off to bed. Annie (Comment this)

24 - SMM, Thanks for the reminder. I do eat jerky sometimes, but you sure have to watch the labels. Some of it is pretty high carb for me right now. I'm trying controling my diabetes by diet and exercise alone after 1.5 years of insulin followed by 1.5 years of Byetta. It's pretty scary doing without any meds. (Comment this)

25 - Annie in New York, byetta 5 x2, 1000mg Metformin er x2, and other asst non diabetes meds, The chick or tuna on lettuce sounds pretty good. I have learned to sure reduced fat mayo mixed with non-fat yogurt which means on lettuce, that would be a pretty nice idea. I often eat snack-like meals between classes at work (I teach) rather than a meal, so ideas are welcome. (Comment this)

26 - Annie So sorry to hear of your asthma attack! This is NOT breathable weather - please take care of yourself. I am like you - I love to dance and Friday nite went out with some friends and danced for 3 hours. When I got home, my bg's were at 84. Moving is such a good thing.

 (Comment this)

27 - Gary so glad the tips helped. Like many of us, I am an expert dieter. Doesn't mean I've ever really listened to the tips for too long, or kept it up - but I sure know what to do! <smilin> .. This time, I am listening loud and clear - and working it. I would just like to see my numbers go down more. Time will tell... (Comment this)

28 - GK,
I was told by my endo, to take my glucavance 1 before the morning, and 1 before the evening meal. I suppose if you eat 4 meals a day, it would be 1 1hr before each meal.

I am taking my morning meds at 5:30am when I get up, and the byetta immediatly before I eat. around 7:15am

I wonnt eat after 6:00pm, so I take the Glucavance at 4:30pm, the byetta at 5:30pm, and eat.

at 5:30 am my FBG's are now running 81, and yesrerday at 4:30pm mine was 91. I am pleased with that. Good luck Gary..... (Comment this)

29 - Annie in New York, byetta 5 x2, 1000mg Metformin er x2, and other asst non diabetes meds,
Hey the mini bike sounds neat.... more walks today... it is only 70's!!!!!! drastic drop and so very nice.... Lesson plans??? You must be a teacher..... I just retired 3 wks ago after 35 years teaching 8th graders...!!!!! Love it.... but it was time.... think I am going to love this also.... FREETIME.... HA...... (Comment this)

30 - Judy Byetta5 2x, Fortamet1000 2x, Amaryl 1g 1x,
Judy, we will have to make a pact to STICK to it this time.... can't wait to hear what happens with your numbers..... I am finding now that I can recognize "full feeling" that I am full most of the time, and sometimes it is mealtime and I really am NOT hungry, I am hoping that when I weigh next monday... something has happened after two weeks of really changing things up.... we'll see... keep it up....!!!!
gk (Comment this)

31 - Pat in ID , This idea may be too high carb for you but sometimes I make a pizza from English Muffin halfs. I toast the split pieces first and then put a thin layer of tomato sauce, fat free mozzarella shredded and whatever leftover vegetables and meat I have in the fridge. Then I put it in the toaster oven and bake until the cheese is melted. It tastes so good my husband has me make him one also. It's pretty filling and low in calories. You can buy high fiber English Muffins to lower the carbs. A regular muffin has 25 carbs. Of course, you could make only one piece and save the other for another time. Sometimes we eat it for lunch on the weekends. If I think of other snack like meals I'll post them. Annie (Comment this)

32 - Judy,I'm hoping to go back to walking tomorrow since the weather forecast looks good. I very rarely have asthma attacks anymore but I still carry Albuterol with me whenever I leave the house. A mini fan, my medic alert dog tags and my asthma meds go with me all the time. If I'll be out long I also bring my meter and blood pressure wrist cuff. I'm impressed you were able to last 3 hours dancing. I would be sitting for most of that time. I especially like to dance at home because I can play my favorite cd's and sing along. Of course, only when I am alone because I have a horrendous voice that is very off key. Keep moving and share you great news. Annie (Comment this)

33 - Gary, when I was having vertigo attacks last year Geri told me about the mini bike. My husband went to The Sharper Image and bought one for me as a gift. While I bike I often do my hand weights so my whole body gets exercise. Even though the vertigo is gone I continue with the mini bike because it is fun and easy to do.

I was a kindergarten and special ed teacher and retired 19 years ago. My children needed me at home. It was an easy choice. Now I teach English as a 2nd language to Korean immigrants who live in my apartment building. The word spread and I have more students than I really can handle. Since I teach from home it works out very well. My first student today was from 9-12 and my second comes at 3 and stays until 5pm. Everyday I have a different schedule to meet my students needs. They are all adult and many work in the same nail salon. Since they work on the weekends they come to me twice a week on their days off. It makes me feel very needed. As an empty nester I need that. What subject did you teach? My special ed students were in the 8th grade too but many were much older and slower than most 8th graders.

Three weeks is a short time to be retired. I bet you get bored before too long. Have you thought about taking up a new hobby? I sketch and write poetry when time permits and the mood strikes me. I hope to start walking again if the weather permits tomorrow. Annie (Comment this)

34 - I need to loose 100 ugly pounds by September of 08. My daughter is getting married and the mother of the brides dress in my size are very unatractive or maybe it is just when I me. I an really going to try again. I had lost 49lbs on Byetta but have gained back 15. Stress Stress Stress.

 (Comment this)

35 - Pat in ID ,
I think Dole sells the fruit cups, diced peaches, etc that have 6 gms of carb. You have to be careful to get the "light" ones because those packed in syrup have mega carbs. (Comment this)

36 - Annie in New York, byetta 5 x2, 1000mg Metformin er x2, and other asst non diabetes meds,
That is really neat teaching adult english..... and so very needed! I taught middle science for 29 years, then switched to US History for the last 6, it was great I was like a 1st year teacher again.... I loved it, but it was time... we have an antique business on ebay and sell higher end porcelains, glass, silver etc all over the world, it has grown and grown and I was maxed out time wise....you can do an advanced search on ebay for sellers and just type in garyk .... that will show you what we do.... its really fun and honestly more lucrative than teaching but I have always had business or something else going.... I am just needing to get this diabetes undercontrol so I can enjoy a lot of "freedom" years.... thanks for all your posts, I really enjoy and appreciate them
gary (Comment this)

37 - Angela in Iowa type 2 11-05, Byetta 10, 2 x day, Metformin ER, 1x day, Diagnosed type 2 11-2005,
Angela, I also need to lose 100.... hey we are on the same boat, lets hope by next sept it is TWO HUNDRED pounds lighter!!!!! I think with incentive and support here WE CAN DO IT....
Gary in Indiana (Comment this)

38 - Angela in Iowa type 2 11-05, Byetta 10, 2 x day, Metformin ER, 1x day, Diagnosed type 2 11-2005,
Congrats on being a mother of the bride and your success so far. Can I make a suggestion? How about setting a goal of being healthier with no weight loss goal in mind? I'm saying this because I was the mother of the groom 6 years ago and a year before the wedding I started working out at the rec center in the hopes of losing weight to look better for the wedding. Well, I didn't lose an ounce. I found a dress that I looked ok in, big belly and all, and I felt better physically and mentally, it just did not show on the outside. It might take some of the stress off of you and if you are more successful so much the better. (Comment this)

39 - Hey Gary! I cannot believe your upbeat positive attitude. I'm so excited for you. Such a change in how you feel about your efforts - and - the changes you see happening in your body. I too hope the scale is good to you. Just remember sometimes it takes time to show up. I weigh in on Friday everyweek - So far I'm down - 13 since june 1. So far the scale is showing another 3 lbs this week but I don't count it til Fri am. In total I'm down 22 (maybe 25). A drop in the bucket for me, but, in a few more pounds I won't have 100 lbs to lose anymore wheeeeeeeeee.. count me IN on the pact, Gary!!!!!
 (Comment this)

40 - GK,GARY - I'm on board. MAKE IT 300!!!! (Comment this)

41 - Angela in Iowa, it might be less daunting to set small goals as you work toward losing the 100 lbs. My second long time goal is another 100 lbs. too but I try to set realistic goals I think I can reach. My goal is 5 lbs. a month or 15 lbs. every 3 month weigh-in. Of course, sometimes I lose more and sometimes less. And sometimes I gain. But I never give up. I bet you would look great even if you didn't lose the whole 100. After I lost the first 50 pounds it was very noticeable to everyone who knew me. And my children were very happy and shocked. Every new clothes size I take a pic to remind me how far I have come. I keep a pic of myself at my largest size (350 lbs.) on the fridge to help keep me from eating more than I should. I also only keep food in the house that is healthy and ok to eat. I made my husband promise not to bring certain treats into the house because I doubt I have enough willpower to stay away from them. Don't forget it's not just what you eat that counts. It's how much you eat and you need to exercise as much as you can. Just don't overdo it. Exercise should help with the stress too. Check out the exercise island for advice. Annie (Comment this)

42 - Gary, So I guess you aren't retired after all. Just changed professions. I've never been on ebay but I will try to check it out. I'm sure you will get your diabetes under control. Just be patient. Annie (Comment this)

43 - Annie in New York, byetta 5 x2, 1000mg Metformin er x2, and other asst non diabetes meds, I bet it would bwe good on some low carb bagels I found too. Since I stopped the byetta, I've been pretty cautious about carbs, but it seems like my body is taking care of things better and better. I had a bagel this morning (25g carb but 8g fiber!) and was at 114 two hours later. Thanks for the idea. (Comment this)

44 - Annie in New York, byetta 5 x2, 1000mg Metformin er x2, and other asst non diabetes meds, Small steps work for me too. I look at just 10 pounds at a time. From my high of 252.5, I have been looking at 10 pound increments. I just made one the other day, 189.6. That's the first time in 25 years I've been that low. I'm now focused on getting into the 170's, but I'm not in a hurry. If I have a special occasion or trip and I eat a little more, I don't beat myself up over it and quit trying. I just start again with the next meal. Even when I go overboard though, I do watch the carbs. It's generally cheese, meat, nuts type stuff that gets me over my daily limit. (Comment this)

45 - Pat in ID, glad I can help. Annie (Comment this)

46 - Pat in ID , I know what you mean about being a weight you haven't been in years. When I first went below 300 it was so wonderful. I had been over 300 for almost 30 years. Now I am hoping to go under 200 within the next 6 months. I haven't been under 200 for 35 years. You will get to the 170's because you are patient. Why everyone seems to be in such a rush to lose the weight is beyond me. And pounds aren't that important either. I take my measurements weekly and it's a better way to see the difference in my body. I just bought my fourth new size and they are starting to get a little loose. Let us know as soon as you reach the 170's. Good Luck. Annie (Comment this)

47 - Judy Byetta5 2x, Fortamet1000 2x, Amaryl 1g 1x,
Judy, I am trying !!! Dinner tonight rosmary/wine chicken breast veggie mix asparagus,peapods,greenbeans,with mango... it was wonderful!!!! walked again tonight....
and Judy welcome on the boat.....HA .... I think with help here and someone to hear successes and setbacks..... we can really help on another...
Went to see Sicko tonight..... wow, it was eyeopening..... I guess having good insurance really is a blessing intodays world....
gary (Comment this)

48 - Judy Byetta5 2x, Fortamet1000 2x, Amaryl 1g 1x,
Judy, 25 lbs is not a drop in the bucket.... go to the grocery store and pick up a 25lb bag of dog food.... then realize that YOU are NO longer carrying that around everywhere..... its a LOT and congratulations to YOU..... be proud!!!!
gary (Comment this)

49 - Pat in ID , I am SOOO very happy for you re your weight loss and your attitude. I know what it's like to feel elated when I drop below that 10 mark. I myself am heading down below 250 SOON!! GL and can't wait to hear MORE good news... (Comment this)

50 - Gary - thanks for your encouragement. I think you're so right about encouraging each other here. What a wonderful group of people. I can't wait to get to the grocery store this weekend and LIFT that bag of dog food.

Annie - I think what you have accomplished is amazing - and I want so much to follow in your dancing footsteps. DAncing for 3 hours at the club is a pure pleasure and as the sweat drips off me I feel energized, I feel the adrenilin rush, I feel in TUNE with my body, and I feel like I could conquer the world. Once I get home, I have some trouble walking up my steep driveway - and the neighbors probably think I am drunk (even though I don't drink and haven't for about 5 yrs due to the medications I'm on!) But, at least they know I had fun. Oh wait - who's up at 2 am except me? <grin> (Comment this)