Introducing myself

[Guest guest]

HI all, my name is Neana, and I'm 23 and a bit. I live in Nottingham, East

Midlands, UK. I have been visually impaired since birth due to a congenital

endocrine condition, which amongst other things affects the optic nerve. I

was registered blind at age 5.

Earlier this year, in about late September/early October, I was diagnosed as

type 2 diabetic. I have just obtained a talking blood glucose meter from

the RNIB (Royal National Institute of the Blind) and other than that have

been prescribed Metformin (2 500 mg tablets twice a day). I have heard from

other diabetics that they have found a low carbohydrate diet, similar to (or

the same as) Atkins has helped them to control their blood sugar. I've

started doing that myself over Christmas although as always happens over

Christmas diets really don't happen. Lol. Anyway, I intend to get firmly

on track after the New Year.

I have only one major concern re my diabetes, as my GP and

endocrinologist/diabetes specialist are really good. That concern is this:

If Metformin tablets are supposed to be controlling my blood sugar, and so

is a low carb diet, won't the two interact?

If anyone has any ideas, I'd be grateful to hear them.

Thanks,

Neana

[Guest guest]

Hi Neana,

Welcome to the list. I've just turned 27 myself and have had type 1 diabetes

for a little over 17 years and been legally blind since birth due to

retinopathy of prematurity.

Glucose comes from two places, internally where your body puts out small

amounts of glucose into your bloodstream around the clock, and externally

broken down from the food you eat. I do not know much about type 2

medications, but I believe Metformin inhibits the internal production of

glucose within your body. A low- or moderate-carb diet will control the

amount of glucose coming into your body from food. Therefore, the two will

not interact but will simply address different aspects of controlling the

level of glucose in your bloodstream. Since you are not taking any drugs

which stimulate insulin production I do not think you have to worry about

your blood sugar dropping too low.

This list is full of knowledgeable people, so feel free to ask any more

questions you may have.

Jen