Question:
My father has diabetes and has been continuously gaining weight since his
diagnosis three years ago. The doctors have come back and really read him
the riot act... for obvious reasons. Although he tries, he isn't doing a
very good job of controling his diet and his BGL's are all over the place.
He is on glucophage now but it well on the road to insulin dependence. Can
anyone share their experience with me about weight and diabetes. My family
is certain that he was diagnosed because he was overweight. I'd like to hear
from you about what might be a good method to change his behavior?
Answer:
Well, reading him the riot act obviously did no good, and being insulin
dependant is not the end of life. Also, while excess weight can cause diabetes
to become apparent if (and only if) you have the genetic defect, it does not in
fact ~cause~ it.
What works best *for me* is to get the readings down by whatever means
available and then work on weight control. If that means a course of insulin
or other drugs, so be it. I find I eat much better when my bg is already in
the normal range, rather than trying to cut back trying to get it down. I'm
sure it's not that way for everyone, but it sure is true for me.
Another possibility is to cut out all "white" carbs - bread, rice, potatoes,
pasta, sugar - and concentrate on the "colorful" ones - veggies and limited
fruits along with nuts and meats.
It really has to come from him, although you can offer ideas. You just can't
*make* someone eat what you want them to if they don't agree.
