Just diagnosed Type 2
Just diagnosed and have a Dexcom and Ozempic prescriptions but they need pre authorization before my insurance will cover them. Looking at diet plans and what to eat/not eat as I can start making improvements there. All I was told in the office was to eat low carb. My A1c was 6.6.
Hi Shellzoo. A new diagnosis can be overwhelming, but it can be much easier to deal with if you make just a few changes at a time. For instance, many people start by eating according to the plate method, which is very simple. For each meal, you fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables, one quarter of your plate with lean protien and one quarter of your plate with carbs. You don't have to know much about nutrition or think too much about which foods work together best to implement it. If you can find a way to incorporate an extra 10 minutes of exercise into your routine, that can help too, especially if you exercise right after a meal.
Has your doctor referred you to a dietician who specializes in type 2 diabetes? If not, you might consider asking for a referral. Dieticians can work with your own food preferences to help you come up with meals and snacks you'll enjoy.
You are not alone. Everyone in this community has been where you are at some point. You'll find lots of support here, so never be afraid to reach out. Here is an article with some advice for people who are new to type 2 diabetes: https://type2diabetes.com/living/dear-newly-diagnosed-friend. I thought you might find it helpful.
You've got this! Wishing you the best. - Lori (Team Member)It is a shame that not all people in medicine are good communicators. I am glad that you had the knowledge to know where to look for and interpret the information you need. For many people, successful care begins with first learning to speak up and advocate for yourself. Wishing you all the best. Kathy (Team member) Sadly, that's all too common when it comes to type 2 diabetes. I'm glad you at least have some knowledge. It can be a huge struggle for those who know nothing about nutrion, digestion and blood sugar levels when they are first diagnosed. - Lori (Team Member)
I went with whole plants with no additives I can’t pronounce as my definition of food. I also try for daily exercise in the form of distance cycling and going to the gym. There are so many healthy options that they replace the junk/garbage. That’s resulted in natural weight loss without trying to diet.
I wore a cgm intermittently to get a handle on what caused me to spike. I’m still more sensitive than normal to carbs but A1c stays in the upper normal range.
There are things that you can eat that reduce blood sugar and most have the benefit of reducing blood pressure. Eating whole, unprocessed plants only also reduces cholesterol.
Note that potato chips and cookies may be “vegan” but don’t quantify as food under my definition.
People tell me it’s hard or they can’t because they have to eat out. No problem. They get to have the results that they have chosen.What a great approach. I'm glad you were able to bring your A1C into the normal range without medication. That's awesome! Thanks for sharing what helps. Warmly, Lori (Team Member)
What works is well known. Most of our illnesses are self induced.
While we appreciate when people share differing opinions, it must be done in a polite and respectful manner, per our Community Rules (link). We also want to acknowledge that while one approach may work for some, a completely different approach may be better for others. Equally causes for diabetes can differ from individual to individual. We encourage anyone to share their personal experience, as long as it’s in a way that respects the experience of others. Thanks for understanding. -Kathy (Team member)
Here’s one study. It appears lifestyle choices are controllable by the definition of “choices “.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11974594/
In recent years, there has been a notable increase in lifestyle-related health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and obesity, often linked to sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy dietary choices, and rising stress levels. Despite advancements in medical science improving management, the scale of these conditions remains concerning. Lifestyle diseases, also known as noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), pose a significant global health.
Lifestyle diseases represent a critical global health issue due to their rising prevalence and impact. These conditions are predominantly influenced by unhealthy lifestyle choices such as poor diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption
