- poss diabetes

[Guest guest]

, you can get these machines at most

pharmacies - the big ones like Rite Aid or Sav-on have

usually got a variety of brands. The one I use is the

One Touch Ultra by Lifescan, part of and

. The machines are not expensive, sometimes

(like now) you might find one on special offer, free

with 100 strips. The strips can work out expensive

but I think it's well worth it for the control it

gives you. You don't have to do it all the time. If

you check it two hours after eating it will give you

an idea what is happening. I aim for mine to be under

160. I find if I eat right i.e not to much refined

flour or sugars, also not too much...quantity wise.

When I say exercise, I don't mean excessive exercise.

Start off with five minutes walking in the morning,

and if you feel like it five minutes in the evening,

then build up slowly.

HAVING SAID ALL THIS, PLEASE CHECK IT WITH YOUR

DOCTOR.

Also listen to your body. I have problems with my

trachea also, and breathing, but sometimes I find

walking or cycling helps clear it in the morning.

Also, if you feel unwell as you did before you can

check your blood sugar to make sure it is not too low.

I tend to feel a bit funny if mine goes below 70.

Mind you sometimes I can't tell the difference between

a hot flush and a low blood sugar! The machine check

stops me worrying!!!

If you work with your doctors and get in a good

routine your lifestyle can improve dramatically,

despite having chronic illnesses. I will try any

medication they offer, but I do feel that we can help

ourselves with diet and exercise.

I also think that overweight is a symptom of diabetes,

rather than a cause. Obviously we don't suddenly

become diabetic overnight. I think we tend to eat

more because our bodies are not handling the sugars,

so we are craving it. (I may be on my own with this

opinion!!!) However, it is working for me, I can walk

for an hour, whereas 10 years ago, I could hardly get

out of bed!!! Anyway, you take care of yourself, love Liz

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