Sunday Night: Prepping for The New Week

Sunday Night: Prepping for The New Week 

So much to do and so little time

 

I need to get back into my routines.

www.flylady.net

http://www.flylady.net/d/getting-started/flying-lessons/routines/


When you get thrown into a new life,
A new schedule,
Almost new everything,
What worked in the past doesn't always,
Okay....
Okay....
Rarely works in your new world.
My cleaning routines -
AKA taking my time and spreading the cleaning out how I wanted
is no longer an option.
I feel as if I have NO time.
NO TIME TO
Log food
Test
Exercise
Walk
Play pickelball
Ride bikes
Much less
Clean
Cook healthy meals
Shop for groceries - looking at ads and recipes for new ideas
Read emails from diabetic organizations for new ANYTHING...
So if you think cleaning is a priority, it isn't.
So the house isn't dirty
But
It isn't clean the way I am used to keeping a house
And it drives me CRAZY.

Pulling out the notebook
Reading the website
Scaling back
But
Jumping in!~

How do you manage to "do it all"?
Is it a myth?
When there is little time
What do you spend your time on?

Ideas are always welcome!!

Have a great numbers day

Jay

 

Merry Christmas - Gifts to ME

MERRY CHRISTMAS

GIFTS TO ME

 

 

REST

LOVE

SELF CARE

TIME

HOPE

FREEDOM

HONESTY

CONFIDENCE

POSITIVITY

KINDNESS

PERMISSION TO SAY NO

DIGITAL DETOX

FAITH

FRIENDS

GRATITUDE

SILENCE

MASSAGES

REALLY GOOD LOTION

 

If you don't take care of yourself,

You will not be able to take care of others.

 

Have a good numbers day!

 

Merry Christmas,

Jay

 

 

Scare Tactics

Scare Tactics

 

 

I read an article where a person, newly diagnosed,

was shown pictures of what can happen when diabetes goes unchecked
.

Amputations

Eye surgeries

You know

All that stuff we are warned about.

 

Diabetes Complications

 

 

Probably not the most encouraging way to start your journey.

 

 

 

Scare vs Fear vs Awareness

 

I am well aware of the complications.

My dad just had a toe amputated.

Surgery at 86 years old is scary enough

BUT

now there is a big boot

to go with leg braces,

special shoes,

and a walker.

 

He has quite a few complications from uncontrolled diabetes.

Crazy thing is, he was diagnosed about 10 year ago!

I am well aware.

 

I also have fear.

It is actually the fear that keeps me motivated.

I am okay right now

BUT

complications are progressive.

The damage builds up until we finally feel the tingle of neuropathy.

Or have a heart issue.

I love my dad and it makes me sad he struggles so much at this time in his life.

I don't want those struggles.

I would prefer to be my mom

AKA

Energizer Bunny!!

 

So I am careful.

I test.

I try to eat right.

All while keeping my dad's struggles in my mind.

To avoid the same fate the best I can.

 

What motivates you?

Were you given the "scared straight" diabetes stories?

 

Have a great numbers day!!

 

Jay

Getting the Knots Out

Getting the Knots Out

 

Oh the Knots!

Stress

My new world has caused a bit of stress.
I could feel the tightening in my neck and shoulders.
My back was aching from sitting at a desk all day.
Lifting the little man strained my muscles.
Oh
How about managing diabetes every day?
Every bite?
Every moment?

I rounded up the sitter.
Made an appointment that worked with his schedule.
And then -
Started counting down the days.

The Massage

Oh my goodness!
Warm toasty table.
Starting to relax.
The massage started.
POP!
The shoulder blade area was full of knots!!
POP! POP! POP!
I could feel the knots.
As she rubbed the area
those tight little knots
SLOWLY
started to breakdown.

She asked if she should spend a little extra time on the neck and back.
Uh... probably.

At the end of the session I was sore.
A good sore,
AND
I am still a bit sore 2 days later.

She reminded me to get up from my desk and stretch.
Showing me stretches that would help open up my chest.
Pull back my shoulders.
Help the back muscles relax.

Reminders

I have set reminders in my phone to move.

Plus booked my next massage!
Counting down....

Are massages a part of your self care?

Have a great numbers day!

Jay

 



Picky Eaters - UNITE!!

Picky Eaters - UNITE!!

 

Yummy Cheesy Broccoli Soup

YES, I AM A PICKY EATER

Okay, not just a picky eater.
A SUPER picky eater.
And is isn't just certain foods.
I don't want my food to touch.
You know,
Unless it belongs together like potatoes and gravy.
No gravy touching my corn on the cob.
Or the green beans.
I don't do ground up food made into a big food.
No hamburgers, meatloaf, or meatballs.
I'm okay with hamburger left small in tacos, no big chunks though.
Yeah, I know.......
And admit.....
I am a super picky eater.

BUT
My BF claims he isn't picky at all.
Hmmm, yes, he is.
I made a very delicious soup.
5 stars on the recipe site.
"Everyone loved it!"
"Even my picky little boys ate it up"
Well, not mine.
Well he did eat it.
And then wanted a sandwich..
The soup tasted funny.

This is actually the problem though.
We like different foods.
Plus with my low carb diet, food has really become an issue.
He loves noodles:
Not a favorite of mine + not low carb.
He loves casseroles and stews:
I prefer my food in separate sections of my plate.
He LOVES spaghetti!!:
Just no. Please no. Never liked.

So lately we have been having lots of chicken breasts with vegetables.
How many ways can you cook chicken?
Lots - but we just can't agree on what we like.

Anyway,
To all of you picky eaters
And those who claim not to be..
(but really are)

Eat what you like.
Eat what you enjoy.

And here is one trick
Make it plain.
Put spices, shakers, and sauces on the table
&
Dress up your own food!!


Oh,
If you have better ideas
PLEASE
Pass them on.
Obviously we need help!!

Have a great numbers day,

Jay
 



"WHY" A Curious 3 Year Old Asks

"WHY" A Curious 3 Year Old Asks

 

WHY? 

So I have a new world.

New city and state. New job. New car. An unexpected 3 year old - with toys, daycare, and car seat. New challenges.
Same old diabetes though so I am trying to get back on track with SparkPeople, Chronometer, blogging, and finding a way to add a little exercise in on occasion.

So the curious 3 year old loves to ask WHY. Especially at bedtime.
Okay, let's put the book away. WHY
Because we are done reading and it's bedtime. WHY
Because it's bedtime. WHY
Because I have work and you have school. WHY
So that we get the sleep we need to have a good morning. WHY
Because I need good mornings. ( (hug hug)) XXX.
And I finally walk out as he is asking WHY.
But it made me think about my WHYs
Why am I trying to getting back on track?
Why log in, log food, blog, and all the other things that don't make me money and take time.

Because:
I need to have community when it comes to diabetes care.
I need to pay a bit more attention to my food so I feel better.
Blogging helps me be a bit more aware about the day. The good, bad and ugly.
And a little exercise never hurt, right?

Maybe even help me with the exhaustion I feel going back to work full time with a 3 year old boy with endless energy!

His WHYs have helped me look at where I am at, where I want to be and WHY.

Thanks little one!

 

Have a great numbers day!

 

Jay

What is Disordered Eating?

WHAT IS DISORDERED EATING?

 

What should I eat today?

Psychology Today 2014

Disordered Eating or Eating Disorder

 

This may be an older article but worth paying attention to.

Do you see posts and articles about keto?
Low Carb High Fat?
Or how cinnamon is the answer?
Barbering, the new turmeric?

New cookbooks designed for diabetics?

What about those black bean brownies?
Cauliflower turned into rice/potato/tortillas/pizza crust.

We are bombarded with what to eat.
What not to eat.
When to eat.
Even what order to eat in.
 

 

BUT
 

I realized we can become obsessive about food.

While watching what we eat,

Watching our numbers,

Working out,

And adopting healthy lifestyles

are wonderful and good things to do

Beware!

 

 

Signs of Disordered Eating

So we know about binge eating, purging, diet pills and laxatives.

Not good stuff

 

But

Excessive or rigid exercise,

Obsessive calorie counting,

Anxiety about certain foods or food groups,

And/or
Refusals to eat out
Are things to look out for.

 

These can all be signs of disordered eating.

Something to think about is the degree of the behavior.

Does it interfere with other areas of your life?

Is food, exercise and numbers all you think about?

Do you have anxiety when thinking about food?

Have you quit socializing?

Does a party or BBQ cause distress?

 

Things to Remember

Watch fad or crash diets.

Find enjoyable exercise.

Give yourself grace

 

AND

 

Talk to someone if you feel diabetes management is taking over.

Yes it is constant

Yes it is always there

Yes we need to know what is going on with our numbers

BUT

If managing your diabetes is causing stress or over the top behaviors,

 

Talk to someone!

 

We need to take care of ourselves
not just

Physically

But
Mentally too!!

 

Have a great numbers day!

 

Jay



Caffeine: Coffee and Soda

Diabetes and Caffeine

 

Love your coffee?

Or tea?

Or soda (diet or otherwise)?

or
Anything with caffeine??

 

Well Used Coffee Cup

You can see my travel mug is well worn.
Used everyday.
Travels to work Monday through Friday, full.
Although I wasn't a coffee drinker for a VERY long time
(can you say YUCK!)
I have developed a taste for a sort-of-coffee blend.
My own sugar free blend.
Recipe:
The large button on the coffee machine
2 T of cocoa
Splash of sweet cream sugar free creamer
Almond milk
1 t Splenda
Or extra creamer.....

Anyway, this isn't really about coffee.

It's about CAFFEINE!

'
Yes, Caffeine affects diabetics a bit differently than those normal people out there.
Who would have thought?  (Add your own sarcastic voice here)
But yes,
Caffeine interferes with our ability to keep glucose in check in quite a few ways.
If you want more details check out this website:

https://diabetesstrong.com/coffee-and-diabetes/


If you aren't into the science and details, just know,
Caffeine from coffee, tea, chocolate and soda
can make a difference in your numbers.
This is a true test it and see game -
Time of day
Type of drink
Food or no food
And
Activity
Can/might/could make a small and/or large difference.

We all know diabetes is an individual thing
So check it out and see!!

How does caffeine affect you?
I'm going to try to skip a day and see what happens.
Not today though,
It's a MONDAY!!

LOL


Have a great numbers day!

Jay


 

 

Success in My New World

SUCCESS IN MY NEW WORLD

 

Thank you diabetes daily

 

Diabetes Daily

This week has been a bit tough.

Things are changing, again.

The unknown looms large

While the known isn't exactly what I wanted.

Plus

The known is from different perspectives.

Perspective changes a story.

We can all experience the same thing

Yet -

We will interpret the experience in our own way.

 

Tough weeks make controlling my numbers tough as well.

I don't eat.

OR I eat crap.

Yesterday I wasn't very successful at my number control.

My emotions took over.

 

Morning Jolt

I am NOT talking about my coffee here!!

But an email.

An email I almost deleted.

But as fate, karma, a hunch, whatever you call it, would have it

I opened an email from Diabetes Daily.

This quote was towards the bottom.

As I was struggling through the continuing emotions of

Life
Decisions
Stupid mistakes from yesterday

This quote reminded me that everyday is new

Today is a new day

Today I can make different decisions in what I eat

Today I can be aware of this roller coaster

I may, in fact, probably won't, make any life changing decisions today

I can make healthy decisions

I can keep moving forward

I can keep gathering information

taking the stories and perceptions into account 

Small actions today that will hopefully spell success in the future

Even if I make mistakes along the way

I am moving forward 

I am taking action

Preparing for what may come next

 

What actions are you taking to be successful?

Are there small changes or big changes ahead?

Small actions add up,

Keep moving!!

 

Have a great numbers day!

 

Jay



A Whole New World

A Whole New World

 

5:15AM Alarm

Those who have children or love Disney will recognize the title as part of Aladdin.
I feel like I have a whole new world in front of me.

Changes

So I went from "on sabbatical"
To a full-time job.
That's right.
8 AM - 5 PM
Monday through Friday
Which wasn't exactly what I wanted
BUT
The offer I got was good enough for me to say "YES"

Reasons

Insurance
Why oh why does health care coverage cost soooo much?
That complaint is rampant and too much for this post
But I know I am not the only one who can, yet can't, afford the over $700 a month premium.
I digress!!!

A 3 year old and daycare
I am now in charge of my grandson.
Temporary situation that has stretched out longer than anticipated.
He needs interaction other than the 2 older people he now lives with.
I needed him to get social interaction.
I needed him to get dirty and play with other kids.
Daycare is expensive.

A new car.
Said 3 year needs a car seat.
Said 3 year old needs help with buckles and snaps.
Grandma's 2 door car requires bending and lifting in a backbreaking way.
New 4 door cars aren't cheap.

So there is my new world.
3 year old
8-5 which really means 5am wake up to 6pm getting home time
Dinner
Dishes
Bath for him, shower for me.
Then - basically bed
Yes for him AND me.

I am so grateful for my Libre.
The scan and see technology has made this crazy lady's life so much easier.
I haven't logged food.
I stick to the tried and true
BUT
There are those moments of temptation
Like the Friday Pizza Lunch for ALL
Donut morning.
Or the missed lunch due to deadlines and payroll crisis.

A whole new world.

What's new in your world??


Have a great numbers day!!
Jay

Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy! Periodontitis Alert

Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy

Periodontitis Alert

 

 

 

Need another reason to keep your blood glucose levels down?

How about your teeth and gum health?

Want to keep your teeth?

Crazy thing -

 Periodontal disease

(a fancy name for mouth disease)

is considered the sixth leading complication of diabetes.

 

But Guess What??

Gum disease may raise blood glucose levels in those WITHOUT diabetes.

So if you have diabetes

AND

gum disease

DOUBLE whammy

MAYBE

even TRIPLE whammy.

 

Why You Ask?

High glucose allows bacteria in the mouth to grow

Irritating the gums and causing inflammation

which triggers an entire body inflammatory response
which  raises blood sugar

which allows bacteria to grow in the mouth

Which causes irritation to the gums

 

OH WAIT....

We are back to the beginning of a circle

that makes BOTH conditions worse!

 

Tips and Tricks

Try to keep blood sugar levels in a healthy range

Brush your teeth 2x a day with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste

Get a periodontal evaluation every year

Let your dentist know you have diabetes

Let your doctor know if you have periodontal disease

Stop smoking

Reduce stress

Eat right - lean protein, whole grains, vegetables

 

Warning Signs

Bad breath

Mouth sores

Loose or separating teeth

Red, swollen, tender gums

Bleeding when flossing or brushing

Mouth pain

Receding gums

 

Make an appointment if you experience these symptoms.

 

Let's keep our terrific smiles!!

Have a great numbers day!

 

Jay

What Is Time In Range?

What is Time in Range?

 

Time in Target Range

Daily Pattern

Know YOUR Range

Experts recommend your glucose number should be between 70-180 mg/dl

for at least  70% of the day.

This range is different for every person.

Are you Type 1?

Type 1.5?

Type 2?

Are you on medication?

What is your diet and activity levels like?

Personal questions only you can answer.

AND

While we like to avoid the high numbers,

avoiding lows is just as important.

 

I am for 70-130mg/dl.

I have read where the 150 mg/dl is the "damage" occurring number.

SO, I try to stay under that number

OR

when I do, on occasion, hit those higher numbers

I try to lower the number quickly.

 

I review my Libra reports,

like the ones above to see how I'm doing.

Lately, with a 3 year old

AND

a new full-time job

I haven't been as

Diligent
Watchful
Careful
Aware

Yet
My numbers have been okay!

 

Your Range

What is your range?

How are you doing staying in that range?

What keeps you in

OR

what kicks you out of that range?

 

 

Have a great numbers number day!

 

 

Jay

Staying Motivated

Staying Motivated  

Are you having a hard time staying motivated?

Ready to quit?  

Not sure you are still interested in what you started? 

Not sure if what you started was the right thing to do?  

Just plain tired of doing what you are doing?  

Don't want to log?  

Don't want to write?

Don't want to test?
 We all get tired of the maintenance work diabetes requires.
Tired of the same old same old:
You know - like
Food

Testing

Highs

Lows

Prescriptions

Doctors

Blood work

And On And

On.

  My new move to help?

 My calendar and little book.  

What is bugging me the most?

My calendar gets told today that starting a new job was harder than expected.

I mark 50 days from today. 

My little book has the positives and negatives

BUT  I am really trying to focus on the positives.

You know what I mean

MONEY!! 

  😀

There are other positives and I need that list.

I read where doing something 50 times

can cause you feel like you are invested in that activity.

We are invested emotionally.

We are invested financially.

We are invested time-wise.

Once you have invested yourself in different ways  it is hard to walk away.

Once you look at the chart of your numbers after eating certain foods,

seeing the numbers and learning the good, bad and ugly,

there is motivation to keep logging the food

And

keeping track of your numbers which makes you test.

Win...

Win...

Win!!!

Have a great numbers day!

Jay



Learn to Find Joy and Have Better Health

Learn to Find Joy and Have Better Health

Finding Joy

Did You Know JOY is Learned??

I did not.
There are 8 things you can do  to learn JOY according to
an article in Health Psychology.
Thing is,
I couldn't find the article online!
BUT
NPR published this:

https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2019/05/05/719780061/from-gloom-to-gratitude-8-skills-to-cultivate-joy?inf_contact_key=72da5ca5df017f1b55696aac5dd5ad93f651f238aa2edbb9c8b7cff03e0b16a0

Here's a quick summary of the eight techniques used in Moskowitz' study:

1. Take a moment to identify one positive event each day.
2. Tell someone about the positive event or share it on social media. This can help you savor the moment a little longer.
3. Start a daily gratitude journal. Aim to find little things you're grateful for, such as a good cup of coffee, a pretty sunrise or nice weather.
4. Identify a personal strength and reflect on how you've used this strength today or in recent weeks.
5. Set a daily goal and track your progress. "This is based on research that shows when we feel progress towards a goal, we have more positive emotions," Moskowitz says. The goal should not be too lofty. You want to be able to perceive progress.
6. Try to practice "positive reappraisal": Identify an event or daily activity that is a hassle. Then, try to reframe the event in a more positive light. Example: If you're stuck in traffic, try to savor the quiet time. If you practice this enough, it can start to become a habit.
7. Do something nice for someone else each day. These daily acts of kindness can be as simple as giving someone a smile or giving up your seat on a crowded train. Research shows we feel better when we're kind to others.
8. Practice mindfulness by paying attention to the present moment. You can also try a 10-minute breathing exercise that uses a focus on breathing to help calm the mind.

Want Another Reason to Learn JOY?

It seems Dr. Moskowitz did another study with others

Check this out if you need some heavy reading -

https://www.diabetesresearchclinicalpractice.com/article/S0168-8227(18)31093-3/fulltext#s0055

 

Here is what I got from the article:

Distress causes problems and impacts behavior and outcome.

 (see Blog https://www.villainoustype2.com/2019/05/diabetes-distress.html)

BUT

Optimism, positive affect, self-efficacy, and gratitude,

all considered well-being constructs,

are associated with superior health outcomes

INCLUDING

better glucose control, motivation for self-care, and lower mortality.

PLUS LESS

stress, anxiety and depression.

 

I say WIN WIN!

 

We know diabetes changes our lives.

Diabetes invades our thoughts, constantly.

Diet, exercise, medications, monitoring glucose.

All requiring constant attention.

 

While we have to think about these things

try to think about what is good in your life.

Focus on right now.

Focus on the good.

Try the 8 steps listed about and let me know if see or feel a difference.

 

Today I am grateful for the chance to write this blog.

Today I am grateful for the 10 minutes of lifting weights.

Today I am grateful for the fact my grandson is now (mostly) potty-trained.

And
Right now, I am grateful for yummy avocado toast because I am hungry.

 

Have a great numbers days!

 

Jay

 

 

Beware the ALL or NOTHING Attitude

Beware the All Or Nothing Attitude

Watches.

"Watch" Out

Like my little pun?
We all keep track of time, sometimes.
But this isn't about our ability to
lose track of time,
especially when surfing the Internet.
This is about
THINKING
we don't have the time to
Workout
Write
Input food to a program
Meal plan
Or
Whatever
All because we don't have an hour or three.

This is the ALL OR NOTHING TRAP

"I can't work out! I have to change, drive to the gym
AND that's before working out!
After working out, I have to shower, change, drive home....."
Well guess what.
Take a 5 minute walk.
Get outside and sweep the front walk.
Hula Hoop with the kids.
5 minutes is better than ZERO.

"I don't have time to write!  I have to find my notebook.
I don't have fancy stationary to write that letter.
Where is that pen? It's too noisy."
Find that notebook and put it by your bed.
Tonight, write the best thing about the day.
Jot a note to a friend - they won't care you wrote it on notebook paper.
They will be happy to hear from you!
1 minute - 1 card is better than ZERO.

"Logging food takes so much time! And I can't even remember what I ate today"
Use your phone!
Try Chronometer or easy to use program.
Even if you only log on the weekends
Or
When you eat something unusual.
1 meal or 1 day is better than ZERO.

"Meal plan? Are you kidding? I am lucky I eat.
And grocery shopping is a disaster!"
Do you eat the same breakfast like me?
I rotate between 3 different breakfasts
SO
While I eat breakfast, since it is automated,
I think about lunch and dinner.
Planning one or two meals is better than ZERO.

What do you not do because you don't have time to complete what you consider to be the
WHOLE THING?

 

Beware of the ALL or NOTHING

Believe it or not -
SOMETHING is always better than NOTHING
And occasionally that something is better.
I missed my morning work out
so later that evening we went on a walk.
The walk allowed for a talk.
The talk allowed for a serious discussion while enjoying a beautiful view
(which I think actually helped us be creative in finding a solution!)

Don't allow the ALL OR NOTHING attitude

stop you from doing at least a few minutes.

Remind yourself that any number is better than Zero
AND
use whatever makes it easy and convenient

Do you have an All or Nothing attitude that trips you up on occasion?
Let us know!

Have a great numbers day,
Jay

 

 

Take a Pill the Right Way - Maybe

Take a Pill the Right Way - Maybe

 

Believing Research

 

 

http://www.annfammed.org/content/12/6/550.abstract?sid=cf9598c5-3fce-40d6-a8dc-55e40a572783



 

I was reading a magazine and came across an article about swallowing  pills.

A German study had concluded there were better ways

and described 2 methods.

 

I wasn't so much interested in the new methods.

I just wanted to know WHY?

I have no problem taking pills.

Why this study?

I am used to swallowing lot of pills.

Big pills.

I pop all of them in my mouth.

I use my teeth to push the pills to the back of my tongue and mouth.

Yep, I stick out my tongue to push them back close to my throat.

Grab a glass of whatever is handy -

Except hot beverages-

Except warm beverages when taking fish oil -

ANYWAY

then I gulp.

Down they go.

 

So I looked around and found out that people have problems taking pills.

Various reasons too:

Fear of choking

Natural desire to chew before swallowing

Fear of gagging

Fear of pill going down wrong pipe

 

Harvard looked at the study and made a few comments

 

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/two-tricks-make-easier-swallow-pills-201411137515

Harvard says don't try different techniques at home.
Interesting.

SO

If like me you have never had an issue taking pills - yay!!
If you have a problem, do as they suggest, get with your Dr.

AND

If you never had a problem but do now,
let your Dr. know
Because
as diabetics we are prone to
things like
Acid reflux
Neurological damage
Dry mouth
GERD
Thyroid problems
plus
just being diabetic can also be to blame.

If you have problems swallowing, pills or food, ask the Dr. to help you!


I hope you have a great numbers day!

Jay





 

 

 

 

Diabetes Distress

 

Diabetes Distress

 

 

CDC:Diabetes Distress

 

https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/ndep/people-with-diabetes/ten-tips-coping-diabetes-distress.html 

My Doctor said I was stressed.

Maybe, possibly depressed.

My complaints?

 

I WORRY

about possible future complications.

about current complications getting worst

about how high numbers might be affecting me.

 

I GET ANGRY

When I can’t eat what I want whenever I want

at the cost of medicine, sensors, test strips, and insurance that costs a ridiculous amount and won’t pay for anything.

when I can’t spoil myself or my grandkids because above costs leave me with zero extra cash.

 

I GET FRUSTRATED

when I eat healthy only to spike and not know why.

at a BBQ or party where delicious carb packed food is overflowing and I have to pick or take 1 bite of a few items

planning my life around food, packing emergency snacks for highs, lows, missed snacks or meals

when I eat and I’m full but I’m not satisfied

 

I FEEL GUILTY

when I miss a workout or don’t put much effort into it.

when I pig out or over indulge and spike.

when someone tries to alter their menu or plans to accommodate me

when above effort doesn’t work out

when I don’t put my food in my program to watch my carbs and watch how I eat

 

I FEEL SHAME

since I don’t know if I caused this or might have even sped up the process with my teenage junk food diet

 

I GET EMBARRASED

When I don’t eat at parties or pick very small scoops to eat,
 especially when someone notices and comments on my “picky” eating

When someone comments on my weight

When people notice my sensor and just look.  Ask. I would rather say what it is than have someone wonder what is wrong with me or avoid me

 

I AM TIRED AND OVERWHELMED AND STRESSED

He mentioned medication.

Nope, no more meds please.

Amazingly I was cleaning out old magazines and came upon an article about

DIABETIES DISTRESS!

Distress is a normal reaction to the stress and strain of managing a progressive, chronic disease.

Distress is gaining attention but not enough in my opinion.

This was written in 2013

http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/complications/mental-health/diabetes-distress.html

2014 a summary of research was presented to the ADA

http://www.diabetes.org/newsroom/press-releases/2014/diabetes-distress-vs-depression.html

Hello 2019!!!  Where is the new research??

ANYWAY......

Distress can rise:

when there are changes in treatment

when there is the development of a complication or complications worsen

when insulin is started

when there is poor control

when you feel your Dr.'s aren't listening

 

 

WHAT TO DO

Realize distress is normal for both the diabetic and their family

Form or join a social network for support, online or locally

Learn your distress warning signs and find management strategies

Talk about your fears and feelings so others know how to help (Then ask for help and accept the help!)

Learn about diabetes self-management.

 

SO

For me, some of my distress comes from liking a routine –

Get up, work out, eat, prepare for day and have a schedule

BUT

With changes in medication and other life issues I need to be more flexible.

Have 15 minutes? Pick up the weights

Tired of cooking? Boyfriend offered to grab salads from W** which I love, accept offer

Number high? Go walk and find a few golf balls

Eat before BBQ’s and parties just in case

Oh and quit giving food so much power….

 

My distress level seems to constantly change but it really increases

when time for blood work and doctor appointments

when there is a party or eating at an unknown restaurant

when invited over for dinner

on Thursday when I grocery shop

Got some of my triggers, time to look for strategies!

 

 

DO you feel like diabetic distress is a part of your life? What are your triggers?

 

Have a great numbers day!

Jay

So Hard to Say NO

So Hard to Say NO



Ways to say NO

I Have a Hard Time Saying No

So little time!

So much to do!

I thought being

retired,

on sabbatical,

laid off,

lacking work,

on a retreat,

or whatever you call it when not formally employed,

I would have all the time I wanted

to do everything I put off while raising a family

AND
working more than full-time.

 

NOPE

Seems I am just as busy as ever.

How do I say no?

I realized as I was looking at ways to say NO

that I needed to decide what I wanted to do.

I needed to decide my YES.

We all have the HAVE TO DO's.

Work. Laundry. Food shopping and prep. Cleaning.

BUT
Where do I want to SPEND my TIME?

What is truly important to me?

They say to find out what is important to someone just looked at

where they SPEND their

time and money! 

Without knowing where I wanted to spend my time (and money),

then I allow others to make that decision for me.

Uhhhhh, no.

Time to decide what I REALLY want to do

as well as

is this the right time to do it.

 

Diabetic Care

 

I have decided to make this a priority.

Watching carbs.

Finding good foods I like.

Exercise, like walking and weights.

Using a program to monitor my food and glucose numbers.

Giving myself time,

by saying no to things others want me to do

I say YES to things I need to do for me.

Things like:

Exercise
Log food

Meal plan

Rest

Sleep
Practice pickle ball

Read

Call my mom and dad

Set a better routine

Free time for whatever comes my way

 

SO

Remember,

saying no to stuff that isn't top priority to you

gives you time (and sometimes money)

to say YES to you and what matters the most in YOUR life.

 

What are the priorities in YOUR LIFE?

 

Have a great numbers day!

Jay

Itch Itch Scratch Scratch - Dry Diabetic Skin

Itch Itch Scratch Scratch - Dry Diabetic Skin

 

Dry Skin

 

Spring - Coming Out From The Layers

Winter.

A time of hiding skin under

sweatpants and sweatshirts.

Layers of clothes,

hats,

gloves,

socks and shoes.

Spring.

A time of showing skin.

T-shirts,

shorts,

and sandals.

 

Yikes! Dry Skin Alert

Oh my....

as I transition to skin showing shorts and shirts

I

just

want

to

CRY.

My skin is dry, flaky, itchy, and, did I mention DRY?

I have bottles of lotion everywhere.

What else can I do?

 

Prevention Tips

So here are a few tips if you suffer from dry skin.

One thing may not help but put a few tips together

and you just might see a difference.

 

1. Warm baths and showers.

NOT hot

2. Less frequent bathing.

Wash only what's dirty.

Yes, you know, those places.....

3. Moisturizing soap

4. NO bubble baths

5. Pat dry, leaving skin slightly damp

6. Apply lotion to slightly damp skin

-Lock that moisture in-

Avoiding between toes

7. Use a humidifier especially in drier climates

 

I have different lotions for different locations.

I am hoping all of this will help me have

Spring Worthy Skin!!

 

What lotions or creams do you find work the best?

 

Have a great numbers day!

 

Jay

 

REAL Normal Blood Glucose Numbers

REAL Normal Blood Glucose Numbers

If you wonder what blood glucose looks like for people without diabetes, mean glucose is typically 100 mg/dl or less, which corresponds to an A1C of less than 5.7% (the cutoff for diagnosing prediabetes). The cutoff for diagnosing diabetes is an A1C of 6.5%, corresponding to a mean glucose of roughly 135 mg/dl.

https://diatribe.org/easd-day-3-highlights-diabetes-technology-experts-share-unique-and-important-data-cgm-and-hybrid#normal

What is “normal” CGM Data in Adults and Kids Without Diabetes?

Dr. Roy Beck of Florida’s Jaeb Center, on behalf of USC’s Dr. Anne Peters, shared continuous glucose monitor (CGM) data for individuals without diabetes. Why did they study this? Good question! This study may well help inform targets for optimal glucose control and needed improvements in diabetes management. Researchers analyzed 10 days of Dexcom G6 CGM data from 153 children (6+ years) and adults with a baseline A1C of 5.1%. The primary findings:

• Among all study participants, the average blood sugar was 99 mg/dl
• Time-in-tight-range of 70-140 mg/dl was 97% in this group of people without diabetes
• Average time in hyperglycemia (blood glucose greater than 140 mg/dl) for the group was 2.1% (just 30 minutes per day)
• Average time greater than 160 mg/dl was approximately 4 mins/day
• Time below 60 mg/dl and 54 mg/dl were both negligible

Another Opinion

https://www.diabetesdaily.com/blog/dr-bernstein-interview-on-diabetes-complications-617051/

Dr Bernstein claims 4.2% to 4.6% A1c which translates to an average of 83 mg/dL

He says in this article that he sees complications at 6.5%

BUT NOT at 5%

6.5% is an average of 160 mg/dL

Yikes!

Are "Real" Normal Numbers Achievable?

Yes according to low carb advocates.

Yes according to Dr Bernstein.

But I tried Low Carb High Fat.

Not sustainable and my numbers didn't drop to "real" normal numbers.

Plus my stress level went way up.

Plus my satisfaction with eating went way down.

I didn't enjoy my food or mealtimes.
So now I am trying low carb meaning 75g to 100g net carb
(meaning carb minus fiber = net carb)
BUT
not high fat, especially animal.
I eat avocados and nuts which have quite a bit of fat
BUT
I need calories from somewhere.
I am limiting my cheese which is SO hard for me.
Food seems to always be a work in progress.
I am hoping Cronometer helps me
More on that later!!
 

Each of us is different in our diabetes journey

Our bodies are different.

Our temperaments are different.

Our food tolerances, like, dislikes, and allergies are different.

Let's do our best while forgiving ourselves when we don't .

I'm aiming for a better A1c 

for  better and healthier life,

physically and mentally.

What are you doing for better numbers?

Have a great numbers day!

Jay

No More Januvia, Hello ? (Options When Insurance Won't Pay)

No More Januvia, Hello ?

(Options When Insurance Won't Pay)

Januvia Bottle With My Notes

Januvia Costs About $500 a Month

Insurance won't cover.
Insurance won't pay a penny.
Not even after I pay a $7500 deductible.
I won't even go into how much a pay for this crappy health care policy
Since that isn't today's point.

SO
Here I am emailing my doctor with options.
Metformin works somewhat but the high highs and low lows are a killer.
So I get his opinions on different meds
Oh and I Google.
A lot of Google searches.
Insurance will cover the old stuff
LIKE

Sulphonylureas

These drugs stimulate the insulin produced by the pancreas.
These can cause low blood sugars
YIKES!
I have read that stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin
can be a bad thing if you're a Type 1.5
since it burns out the pancreas faster.
Which means more insulin later.
Right now though my concern is the lows.
I get low, really low, at night.
50s and 60s low.
Another negative,
My Dr. says no.

Thiazolidinedione or Glitazones

This drug reduces the  resistance to insulin.
Well, that isn't helpful!
Seems the antibodies test I had shows that I am NOT insulin resistant.
Ok, so let's not take a drug just for fun.
If I don't need it, I don't want it.
Thank you, NO THANK YOU!!!

 

 Gliptins or DPP-4 Inhibitors

Januvia is in this class.
And it helped with the high spikes and low drops.
I called insurance and asked for help with the website for pharmacy benefits.
NOTHING is covered until I meet the deductible??
NOOOOO she says.  Let me check she says.
We review what her computer says my benefits are.
Januvia is not covered, not at all.
BUT
ALOGLIPTIN IS!!
It is in the same family as Januvia
Woohoo!!
My doctor actually suggested it
AND - SAY WHAT??!!
Insurance will cover it with a co-pay of $15!!!

UHHHH, NO....
The prescription is sent over.
The pharmacy wants to fill it.
The insurance says nope,
Not going to approve,
Not until the doctor fills out said forms,
Not until they think I need it.

 

Waiting

So now I wait.
I wait for insurance to say yes or no.
I wait for insurance to decide what they think is best for me.
I pay for insurance to help me stay well
And for what I pay
I should get the gold standard treatment.

BUT
We will see.
I wait.


Have a great numbers day!

Jan