Most recent A1c test came back and ......... (Drum roll please)
Almost normal! (although Mare tends to argue the definition of normal, I am referring to blood sugars here)
I've managed to get it below 6!! 5.8 to be exact.
My initial diagnosis test a few months ago was 7.2, which isn't great, but it wasn't the end of the world either. The ultimate goal is to get it below 5.5, get off the meds, and control it with diet and exercise.
*Clearing throat*
I'd like to thank Mare for Her support, my cats for being fluffy and adorable, regular exercise and healthier eating.
Oh yeah, and probably Metformin. :/ I hate my *^#$*&@ meds.
Leigh - If you don't mind my mini-diatribe, I'd like to say it's simple, but it's not (and yet it is). When I was first diagnosed, I was devastated and overwhelmed. I am such a carb junky and also have a sweet tooth from hell and I wasn't sure I would survive the life change - but I did it, and I'm still alive.
I still have moments where I am overwhelmed and not sure what I should or should not eat, but it becomes easier with time.
The first start would be to get in some regular exercise - at least 30 minutes a day, a few times a week at minimum = walking, bike riding, SOMETHING. Exercise helps the body metabolize and burn sugar. First and foremost, if you are overweight, you have to start losing it.
Cut out the bad carbs. I wouldn't recommend eliminating them completely, but choose wisely and cut them down
considerably. Potatoes, rice, breads - all bad if you are eating the wrong ones. Stay away from white breads and rices. If you do find yourself wanting them, resist! or at the very least, cut down the portions. Diabetes is all about portion control. Eat small, healthy meals throughout the day.
Increase your protein intake. Get yourself some protein shakes, eat more meats instead of starches. Eat foods with fiber and consume more veggies. My plate used to have more carb than protein, but I reversed it. If I want to indulge in a little more carb than usual, I make sure I work out an hour after eating.
Cut out any candy. Don't indulge in sugar free candy. Sugar free candy may not have "sugar" in them, but they do have sugar alcohols in them, and that is a no no.
Drink more water and stay away from sodas - even diet sodas - as the sugar substitute in them causes a blood sugar spike. Drink those sparingly.
Test your blood regularly to see how certain foods effect you. If you notice that your sugar is high after eating a particular food, then cut that food out or limit how much you eat it.
My mother was insulin dependent, and that is my inspiration. I
DO NOT want this to progress to the point where that may happen. My mom suffered from a lot of illnesses - and didn't have the medications, resources and support that we have now. If you continue to ignore it, you WILL develop serious health issues over time. Diabetes is destined to cause issues.