OT Type 2 Diabetes (1 Viewer)

[THE HCP]

Was hoping to create this thread as a place for me to come for help, opinions, recommendations, advice and most importantly fat jokes.
Some on here know I go by Big John. I wasn‘t always Big John. That didn’t really happen until my kids arrived in the early 2000s. Hate to use that as an excuse…..but the combo of me not playing hoops 4 nights a week anymore and right around that same time in my life, I started traveling year round for work…… I definitely took a huge downturn in my exercise and activity. The 11:30PM meals on the team plane definitely didn’t help.
I would say after the military until 2001 when my son was born I was right around 195-200 lbs. At 5’10” I was always told I was stocky with broad shoulders, but never “fat”, just always solid.
Well that definitely changed like I mentioned above.
Fast forward to exactly 10 years ago from today, in a hotel room in NYC on a road trip, I stepped on a scale and was completely blown away by what I saw. I knew I was completely overweight and out of shape. I could tell trying to go hiking with the family and while trying to play ball. I officially retired from hooping about 15 years ago and it hurt not being able to play. Not just for the health aspect of it, but the camaraderie. My schedule and weight were the major factor, but mostly my weight.
After that 2015 weigh in and wake up call, (GUESS I SHOULD TELL YOU THE ACTUAL NUMBER TO PUT THIS IN CONTEXT…. WHEN I LOOKED DOWN I SAW 333LBS !!!) ….. I started doing something about it. Hitting the gym and trying to eat better. Didn’t change my diet much, but definitely started working out. Never did go see a doctor, which I now realize was a huge mistake. At that point I really should have. The last doctors visit/physical I had was when I was 18 in the ARMY.

So over the course of next 5 years, and during COVID, I dropped down to 300 even. I noticed being able to be a bit more active with the kids and on family outings….so maybe I fooled myself into thinking things were under control, or at least headed in the right direction. I think the fact that clothes were fitting that I was unable to wear in the past, also gave me a false sense of accomplishment.
Since then, no matter how much I worked out though, nothing changed. I WILL admit to not changing my diet.
I didn’t mention that I do not drink or smoke…..but my vice for my entire adult life has been soda. Just drinking it daily and a lot of it.
Deep down, I always felt my wife and kids deserved better. Always wanted to be a proper example for my little ones. But maybe I was? Both headed off to play college sports in spite of me not showing them how to take care of themselves. Maybe they saw what not to do! #BAM

Fast forward to this summer. I went in to get my colonoscopy and everything came back good to go (Knock on wood)
That doctor said I really need to go get a physical. I agreed, but like in the past, didn’t act on it.
From June to August, I had 3 great childhood friends of mine go down with heart attacks while they were at work. ALL 3 DIED! ALL 3 overweight #BAM…..right there, dropped dead.
I was shook! Enough was enough. I reached out to get a doctors appointment set up that day!

I went in for a physical. They ran tests on me and my blood. Everything came back normal, except the 3 things you really wish HAD. They said my cholesterol/blood pressure/blood sugar were sky high.
I asked the doctor (WHO WAS REALLY HOT BY THE WAY AND I THINK WAS FLIRTING WITH ME THE WHOLE TIME)(SHE ALSO HAD TO ASK ME TO PUT MY PANTS BACK ON WHEN SHE SAID THEY WERE CHECKING MY BLOOD PRESSURE) I asked her is this was a lifestyle situation that I did to myself. She said, “YES!” It was tough to hear, but was needed. She then informed me that I was a Type 2 Diabetic.
My eyes have been opened.
For somebody whose only history of taking medication has been advil and Zyrtec….. it has been a major wake up call. I am now on two blood pressure medications and a pills for diabetes. Every morning I take my own blood pressure and blood sugar. I use the HEALTH app on my iPad and iPhone to log it and it graphs it all out for me. This is all so foreign for me, especially to get in some kind of routine while on the road. I take a shot once a week now. Not sure what it is, but it’s called a GLP. Did some research and it says it is to help with your diabetes and blood sugar levels. They said there are side AFFECTS/EFFECTS and boy are they right. I just took my third shot this past Monday. It really has changed how I feel about food.
In the mornings I’m not hungry at all. Actually messes up my stomach a bit. My wife was worried about me after that first week. So she got me some protein shakes. I now have a shake and a banana for breakfast every morning. If I see any greasy food or soda or anything, it looks disgusting to me. Which is good I guess.
This is day 18 of my “2nd chance in life” I call it, and I feel damn good to be honest. Went on more walks in the past 3 weeks then I have in forever. DoorDash at the hotel so far this season has been salads and chicken and rice instead of Shake Shack and pizza. Bubly sparkling water instead of Pepsi.
Best I’ve felt in I don’t know how long. If I do eat some kind of “regular” meal, I can only eat half and I’m full.
Craziest thing. My right knee has been hurting me for about 10 years. Throbbing, sore, swollen…… I literally walked up the steps of the plane yesterday and got to the top and was like, “HOLY SHIT!” It didn’t hurt. Woke up this morning and it didn’t hurt. It’s been fantastic!
I go back in for a 1 month checkup on November 18th. Excited because with my knee feeling good and I have an appointment with the dietitian next week, things should get even better. Never felt so motivated about anything in my life. Can safely say that.
Doc told me NOT to weigh myself, and just to worry about my blood sugar levels and blood pressure and the weight will come off…..BUT….. I couldn’t help myself this morning.
On October 19th, I was officially 301lbs.
This morning I was officially 279lbs.

Didn’t create this thread for attaboys or anything like that. Was hoping if any of you out there have dealt with or are dealing with this or are a fitness guru and have any pointers or advice to send my way or anybody else’s way on here, I’m begging you to.
I know I could use all the help I can get! Thinking maybe having this out like this will make me a bit more accountable as well.
You have no idea how good that felt to share. YEARS of pent up frustrations and shame right there, @SlyPokerDog thanks for giving us a forum for this type of thing. Even though I know this isn’t what this place is about…..I consider all of yo…..errrrr a bunch of yo…….errrrr 2 of you friends! In all seriousness, if anybody else is going thru this, @THE HCP is wishing you the best. Thanks FAMS!

 

[Strenuus]

FUCK YEAH BROTHER. Way to take care of yourself. The hardest thing is the fucking food, man. I feel you. I'm not "overweight" and my last checks my numbers were good, but I still want to change because that can change.

Working out is fun... haven't gone in 3 months, but was going for a year 3 days a week. I'll get back on that horse.

Way to take care of that business. Cutting soda is freaking huge too. I cut it about 2 years ago, and as much sugars as I can (impossible in this world, but I cut out all candy, sweets, etc)... Keep doing that good work, brother.

 

[barfo]

Attaboy!

barfo

 

[JfizzleBlazer]

Great to hear that you are changing your life and that you are going to the doctors.

About three years ago my dad couldn't breathe. He called me and asked me to come pick him up to take him into the hospital. I told him if he needed to go I was going to call an ambulance for him. Called the ambulance and waited at the hospital. The doctor came and talked to me and told me he was an hour away from dying and that he was by far the sickest person in the hospital. He had to be put on a ventilator and was put in a coma. He had undiagnosed diabetes type 2. He hadn't gone to the doctor for decades.

He ended up recovering. He found a diet that works for him and he goes to the doctor regularly. His diet is pretty boring but staying alive to see his grandkids is what is most important to him.

Good luck on your journey. You got lots to live for. Your family needs you and you'll kick diabetes ass.

 

[THE HCP]

Attaboy!

barfo

DAMN YOU

 

[THE HCP]

FUCK YEAH BROTHER. Way to take care of yourself. The hardest thing is the fucking food, man. I feel you. I'm not "overweight" and my last checks my numbers were good, but I still want to change because that can change.

Working out is fun... haven't gone in 3 months, but was going for a year 3 days a week. I'll get back on that horse.

Way to take care of that business. Cutting soda is freaking huge too. I cut it about 2 years ago, and as much sugars as I can (impossible in this world, but I cut out all candy, sweets, etc)... Keep doing that good work, brother.

Thanks man. If anybody else wants to share their journey please do. I am seeing how healthy it is mentally to share.

 

[THE HCP]

Great to hear that you are changing your life and that you are going to the doctors.

About three years ago my dad couldn't breathe. He called me and asked me to come pick him up to take him into the hospital. I told him if he needed to go I was going to call an ambulance for him. Called the ambulance and waited at the hospital. The doctor came and talked to me and told me he was an hour away from dying and that he was by far the sickest person in the hospital. He had to be put on a ventilator and was put in a coma. He had undiagnosed diabetes type 2. He hadn't gone to the doctor for decades.

He ended up recovering. He found a diet that works for him and he goes to the doctor regularly. His diet is pretty boring but staying alive to see his grandkids is what is most important to him.

Good luck on your journey. You got lots to live for. Your family needs you and you'll kick diabetes ass.

Glad to hear he is doing better. Couldn’t imagine my kids having to go thru this.

 

[SlyPokerDog]

Wow, thanks for sharing.

Sounds like you're doing the right things.

The only thing I want to add is get a doctor you like and stick with them.

I've had the same doctor for the last 12 years and it makes a huge difference. I actually go to Broadway Medical Clinic by you, lol. Great clinic, great service. I can text you the name of my doctor if you want. He's a huge Blazer fan.

Don't listen to people's negative bullshit about Ozempic, Wegovy, etc. THEY WORK. They're for people with similar situations like yours. People, including myself, thought they were cheating. They're not. It's not cheating if you take something to help you lose weight, just like it's not cheating to take something to lower your BP or cholesterol.

Talk to you doctor about your options. But again, you want to have a regular doctor.

And since we're all talking about our health and shit, lol.

I always go in a week before my annual physical to do my labs. I want them done before I see my doctor so we can discuss the results during the visit. I never understood getting them after you see your doctor.

 

[THE HCP]

Wow, thanks for sharing.

Sounds like you're doing the right things.

The only thing I want to add is get a doctor you like and stick with them.

I've had the same doctor for the last 12 years and it makes a huge difference. I actually go to Broadway Medical Clinic by you, lol. Great clinic, great service. I can text you the name of my doctor if you want. He's a huge Blazer fan.

Don't listen to people's negative bullshit about Ozempic, Wegovy, etc. THEY WORK. They're for people with similar situations like yours. People, including myself, thought they were cheating. They're not. It's not cheating if you take something to help you lose weight, just like it's not cheating to take something to lower your BP or cholesterol.

Talk to you doctor about your options. But again, you want to have a regular doctor.

And since we're all talking about our health and shit, lol.

I always go in a week before my annual physical to do my labs. I want them done before I see my doctor so we can discuss the results during the visit. I never understood getting them after you see your doctor.

Thanks man! This is all so new to me. Yes send me your doctor’s info. I’ve been trying to get a primary care physician for 5 months now and none that were recommended are taking new patients. I have a couple friends that are emergency room doctors and said for me to get started the way I have was to simply go to Zoom Care and meet with a nurse practitioner. That’s what I did, and she has been fantastic. But I would love to start seeing a PCP.

 

[Shaboid]

About 6 months ago my wife was diagnosed with late onset type 1 diabetes. It's definitely changed our lifestyles. 4 shots a day and constant glucose monitoring for her is rough. We pretty much only have healthy foods around the house these days. As big of a pain in the ass as it is, her, myself, and our two kids are all going to be eating healthy whether we like it or not, so I guess that's the silver lining.

Sounds like you have a good perspective given the situation. Keep that mindset and your health will improve. Sly's advice about a doctor you can trust is very valuable. You're only as good as the team around you.

 

[Phatguysrule]

Was hoping to create this thread as a place for me to come for help, opinions, recommendations, advice and most importantly fat jokes.
Some on here know I go by Big John. I wasn‘t always Big John. That didn’t really happen until my kids arrived in the early 2000s. Hate to use that as an excuse…..but the combo of me not playing hoops 4 nights a week anymore and right around that same time in my life, I started traveling year round for work…… I definitely took a huge downturn in my exercise and activity. The 11:30PM meals on the team plane definitely didn’t help.
I would say after the military until 2001 when my son was born I was right around 195-200 lbs. At 5’10” I was always told I was stocky with broad shoulders, but never “fat”, just always solid.
Well that definitely changed like I mentioned above.
Fast forward to exactly 10 years ago from today, in a hotel room in NYC on a road trip, I stepped on a scale and was completely blown away by what I saw. I knew I was completely overweight and out of shape. I could tell trying to go hiking with the family and while trying to play ball. I officially retired from hooping about 15 years ago and it hurt not being able to play. Not just for the health aspect of it, but the camaraderie. My schedule and weight were the major factor, but mostly my weight.
After that 2015 weigh in and wake up call, (GUESS I SHOULD TELL YOU THE ACTUAL NUMBER TO PUT THIS IN CONTEXT…. WHEN I LOOKED DOWN I SAW 333LBS !!!) ….. I started doing something about it. Hitting the gym and trying to eat better. Didn’t change my diet much, but definitely started working out. Never did go see a doctor, which I now realize was a huge mistake. At that point I really should have. The last doctors visit/physical I had was when I was 18 in the ARMY.

So over the course of next 5 years, and during COVID, I dropped down to 300 even. I noticed being able to be a bit more active with the kids and on family outings….so maybe I fooled myself into thinking things were under control, or at least headed in the right direction. I think the fact that clothes were fitting that I was unable to wear in the past, also gave me a false sense of accomplishment.
Since then, no matter how much I worked out though, nothing changed. I WILL admit to not changing my diet.
I didn’t mention that I do not drink or smoke…..but my vice for my entire adult life has been soda. Just drinking it daily and a lot of it.
Deep down, I always felt my wife and kids deserved better. Always wanted to be a proper example for my little ones. But maybe I was? Both headed off to play college sports in spite of me not showing them how to take care of themselves. Maybe they saw what not to do! #BAM

Fast forward to this summer. I went in to get my colonoscopy and everything came back good to go (Knock on wood)
That doctor said I really need to go get a physical. I agreed, but like in the past, didn’t act on it.
From June to August, I had 3 great childhood friends of mine go down with heart attacks while they were at work. ALL 3 DIED! ALL 3 overweight #BAM…..right there, dropped dead.
I was shook! Enough was enough. I reached out to get a doctors appointment set up that day!

I went in for a physical. They ran tests on me and my blood. Everything came back normal, except the 3 things you really wish HAD. They said my cholesterol/blood pressure/blood sugar were sky high.
I asked the doctor (WHO WAS REALLY HOT BY THE WAY AND I THINK WAS FLIRTING WITH ME THE WHOLE TIME)(SHE ALSO HAD TO ASK ME TO PUT MY PANTS BACK ON WHEN SHE SAID THEY WERE CHECKING MY BLOOD PRESSURE) I asked her is this was a lifestyle situation that I did to myself. She said, “YES!” It was tough to hear, but was needed. She then informed me that I was a Type 2 Diabetic.
My eyes have been opened.
For somebody whose only history of taking medication has been advil and Zyrtec….. it has been a major wake up call. I am now on two blood pressure medications and a pills for diabetes. Every morning I take my own blood pressure and blood sugar. I use the HEALTH app on my iPad and iPhone to log it and it graphs it all out for me. This is all so foreign for me, especially to get in some kind of routine while on the road. I take a shot once a week now. Not sure what it is, but it’s called a GLP. Did some research and it says it is to help with your diabetes and blood sugar levels. They said there are side AFFECTS/EFFECTS and boy are they right. I just took my third shot this past Monday. It really has changed how I feel about food.
In the mornings I’m not hungry at all. Actually messes up my stomach a bit. My wife was worried about me after that first week. So she got me some protein shakes. I now have a shake and a banana for breakfast every morning. If I see any greasy food or soda or anything, it looks disgusting to me. Which is good I guess.
This is day 18 of my “2nd chance in life” I call it, and I feel damn good to be honest. Went on more walks in the past 3 weeks then I have in forever. DoorDash at the hotel so far this season has been salads and chicken and rice instead of Shake Shack and pizza. Bubly sparkling water instead of Pepsi.
Best I’ve felt in I don’t know how long. If I do eat some kind of “regular” meal, I can only eat half and I’m full.
Craziest thing. My right knee has been hurting me for about 10 years. Throbbing, sore, swollen…… I literally walked up the steps of the plane yesterday and got to the top and was like, “HOLY SHIT!” It didn’t hurt. Woke up this morning and it didn’t hurt. It’s been fantastic!
I go back in for a 1 month checkup on November 18th. Excited because with my knee feeling good and I have an appointment with the dietitian next week, things should get even better. Never felt so motivated about anything in my life. Can safely say that.
Doc told me NOT to weigh myself, and just to worry about my blood sugar levels and blood pressure and the weight will come off…..BUT….. I couldn’t help myself this morning.
On October 19th, I was officially 301lbs.
This morning I was officially 279lbs.

Didn’t create this thread for attaboys or anything like that. Was hoping if any of you out there have dealt with or are dealing with this or are a fitness guru and have any pointers or advice to send my way or anybody else’s way on here, I’m begging you to.
I know I could use all the help I can get! Thinking maybe having this out like this will make me a bit more accountable as well.
You have no idea how good that felt to share. YEARS of pent up frustrations and shame right there, @SlyPokerDog thanks for giving us a forum for this type of thing. Even though I know this isn’t what this place is about…..I consider all of yo…..errrrr a bunch of yo…….errrrr 2 of you friends! In all seriousness, if anybody else is going thru this, @THE HCP is wishing you the best. Thanks FAMS!

Damnit. I'd sure love to be sub 280 again someday... Super proud of you for getting there! I'm sure you'll have no problem keeping it coming off.

Thanks for sharing!

 

[Phatguysrule]

Great to hear that you are changing your life and that you are going to the doctors.

About three years ago my dad couldn't breathe. He called me and asked me to come pick him up to take him into the hospital. I told him if he needed to go I was going to call an ambulance for him. Called the ambulance and waited at the hospital. The doctor came and talked to me and told me he was an hour away from dying and that he was by far the sickest person in the hospital. He had to be put on a ventilator and was put in a coma. He had undiagnosed diabetes type 2. He hadn't gone to the doctor for decades.

He ended up recovering. He found a diet that works for him and he goes to the doctor regularly. His diet is pretty boring but staying alive to see his grandkids is what is most important to him.

Good luck on your journey. You got lots to live for. Your family needs you and you'll kick diabetes ass.

I'm glad he's doing well!

 

[Phatguysrule]

About 6 months ago my wife was diagnosed with late onset type 1 diabetes. It's definitely changed our lifestyles. 4 shots a day and constant glucose monitoring for her is rough. We pretty much only have healthy foods around the house these days. As big of a pain in the ass as it is, her, myself, and our two kids are all going to be eating healthy whether we like it or not, so I guess that's the silver lining.

Sounds like you have a good perspective given the situation. Keep that mindset and your health will improve. Sly's advice about a doctor you can trust is very valuable. You're only as good as the team around you.

Happy she caught it while still healthy and your family seems to have it under control. That's as much a credit to you as it is to her.

Great job to you both!

 

[riverman]

Heal em up Big John! Stick with your program homeslice! It's nothing to fuck around with. Glad you found out before it's too late. With your condition, eat eggs for protein and veggies and fruit for fiber. You'll turn it around. Also can recommend green tea. Hot water is great for weight and blood sugar control. If you see a photo of your skeletal frame inside your body you can see what you need to do pretty clearly. Once I took off the excess weight, my cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar levels all stabilized.. Bro I seriously hope you turn it around and you'll feel so much better for it! Soup is a great way to get a healthy diet kickstarted. (again with the hot water thing)

 

[UncleCliffy'sDaddy]

I've been Type 2 for about 15 or so years now. Most of the time I have controlled it with diet, exercise and Metformin. They have had me try adding meds on top of the Metformin, but all they did was make me feel like shit and drain my wallet. I finally refused to take the shit because I don't believe in fighting poison with poison. I also don't feel like paying for the gas for Big Pharma exec's Ferraris. I also don't do the daily monitoring, as I find it confusing and pretty useless. It's like telling you the horse is out of the barn when you already damn well knew that. And again, just another thing to make Big Pharma and their subsidiaries richer. I mean, once I know the number, what am I supposed to do with it other than write it down....?

At my age there isn't much left for an old guy to enjoy, so I am reluctant to stray too far from my favorite foods. I try to limit my sugar intake (I have my good days and my bad) and usually substitute fruit for the processed stuff. I also do my best to keep my carbs as complex as I can. That kind of "compromise", along with a consistent attempt to get between 7K and 10K steps a day (thank God for dogs! You have one of those. Get moving! The dog may even start to finally like you!) helps me keep my A1C consistently below 7.0, which medical studies apparently have found to be acceptable in terms of it's relationship to co-morbidities (other related problems). I tried hard to diet and exercise myself out of the problem but that ain't gonna happen. So I just try to find a happy medium. One thing the journey has helped me do over time was lose significant weight and to get back into the best shape (for me anyway) that I have been in for a long damn time.

Best advice I can give you is; kick the soda permanently (shame on you. That shit is as bad, if not worse for you than alcohol). Start walking your ass off. You'll have the happiest dawg in NEP. Metformin is relatively benign and actually might have some additional positive benefits (but it strips your B-12, so make sure you supplement). The Met, with diet and exercise should suffice in the beginning. DO NOT go on the expensive shit until you absolutely have to. It is pure poison that will make you feel shitty. And it is expensive AF. And it may not actually be needed.

This is probably a "rest of your lifetime" journey. Make an effort to get as far as you can without the meds. And then take only what you need. And make sure your doc is monitoring your kidney function. Because Type 2 diabetes will wreak havoc on them if you are not careful. But the internet CAN be your friend. Educate yourself and don't be too quick to buy 100% into what your doc tells you until you have a wide range of information. Sometimes these guys just find it easier to throw meds at a problem, rather than do the work.

But stop that damn soda pop!!! That and the weight are your two biggest issues.......

 

[THE HCP]

Heal em up Big John! Stick with your program homeslice! It's nothing to fuck around with. Glad you found out before it's too late. With your condition, eat eggs for protein and veggies and fruit for fiber. You'll turn it around. Also can recommend green tea. Hot water is great for weight and blood sugar control. If you see a photo of your skeletal frame inside your body you can see what you need to do pretty clearly. Once I took off the excess weight, my cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar levels all stabilized.. Bro I seriously hope you turn it around and you'll feel so much better for it! Soup is a great way to get a healthy diet kickstarted. (again with the hot water thing)

Thank you so much.

 

[UncleCliffy'sDaddy]

Was hoping to create this thread as a place for me to come for help, opinions, recommendations, advice and most importantly fat jokes.
Some on here know I go by Big John. I wasn‘t always Big John. That didn’t really happen until my kids arrived in the early 2000s. Hate to use that as an excuse…..but the combo of me not playing hoops 4 nights a week anymore and right around that same time in my life, I started traveling year round for work…… I definitely took a huge downturn in my exercise and activity. The 11:30PM meals on the team plane definitely didn’t help.
I would say after the military until 2001 when my son was born I was right around 195-200 lbs. At 5’10” I was always told I was stocky with broad shoulders, but never “fat”, just always solid.
Well that definitely changed like I mentioned above.
Fast forward to exactly 10 years ago from today, in a hotel room in NYC on a road trip, I stepped on a scale and was completely blown away by what I saw. I knew I was completely overweight and out of shape. I could tell trying to go hiking with the family and while trying to play ball. I officially retired from hooping about 15 years ago and it hurt not being able to play. Not just for the health aspect of it, but the camaraderie. My schedule and weight were the major factor, but mostly my weight.
After that 2015 weigh in and wake up call, (GUESS I SHOULD TELL YOU THE ACTUAL NUMBER TO PUT THIS IN CONTEXT…. WHEN I LOOKED DOWN I SAW 333LBS !!!) ….. I started doing something about it. Hitting the gym and trying to eat better. Didn’t change my diet much, but definitely started working out. Never did go see a doctor, which I now realize was a huge mistake. At that point I really should have. The last doctors visit/physical I had was when I was 18 in the ARMY.

So over the course of next 5 years, and during COVID, I dropped down to 300 even. I noticed being able to be a bit more active with the kids and on family outings….so maybe I fooled myself into thinking things were under control, or at least headed in the right direction. I think the fact that clothes were fitting that I was unable to wear in the past, also gave me a false sense of accomplishment.
Since then, no matter how much I worked out though, nothing changed. I WILL admit to not changing my diet.
I didn’t mention that I do not drink or smoke…..but my vice for my entire adult life has been soda. Just drinking it daily and a lot of it.
Deep down, I always felt my wife and kids deserved better. Always wanted to be a proper example for my little ones. But maybe I was? Both headed off to play college sports in spite of me not showing them how to take care of themselves. Maybe they saw what not to do! #BAM

Fast forward to this summer. I went in to get my colonoscopy and everything came back good to go (Knock on wood)
That doctor said I really need to go get a physical. I agreed, but like in the past, didn’t act on it.
From June to August, I had 3 great childhood friends of mine go down with heart attacks while they were at work. ALL 3 DIED! ALL 3 overweight #BAM…..right there, dropped dead.
I was shook! Enough was enough. I reached out to get a doctors appointment set up that day!

I went in for a physical. They ran tests on me and my blood. Everything came back normal, except the 3 things you really wish HAD. They said my cholesterol/blood pressure/blood sugar were sky high.
I asked the doctor (WHO WAS REALLY HOT BY THE WAY AND I THINK WAS FLIRTING WITH ME THE WHOLE TIME)(SHE ALSO HAD TO ASK ME TO PUT MY PANTS BACK ON WHEN SHE SAID THEY WERE CHECKING MY BLOOD PRESSURE) I asked her is this was a lifestyle situation that I did to myself. She said, “YES!” It was tough to hear, but was needed. She then informed me that I was a Type 2 Diabetic.
My eyes have been opened.
For somebody whose only history of taking medication has been advil and Zyrtec….. it has been a major wake up call. I am now on two blood pressure medications and a pills for diabetes. Every morning I take my own blood pressure and blood sugar. I use the HEALTH app on my iPad and iPhone to log it and it graphs it all out for me. This is all so foreign for me, especially to get in some kind of routine while on the road. I take a shot once a week now. Not sure what it is, but it’s called a GLP. Did some research and it says it is to help with your diabetes and blood sugar levels. They said there are side AFFECTS/EFFECTS and boy are they right. I just took my third shot this past Monday. It really has changed how I feel about food.
In the mornings I’m not hungry at all. Actually messes up my stomach a bit. My wife was worried about me after that first week. So she got me some protein shakes. I now have a shake and a banana for breakfast every morning. If I see any greasy food or soda or anything, it looks disgusting to me. Which is good I guess.
This is day 18 of my “2nd chance in life” I call it, and I feel damn good to be honest. Went on more walks in the past 3 weeks then I have in forever. DoorDash at the hotel so far this season has been salads and chicken and rice instead of Shake Shack and pizza. Bubly sparkling water instead of Pepsi.
Best I’ve felt in I don’t know how long. If I do eat some kind of “regular” meal, I can only eat half and I’m full.
Craziest thing. My right knee has been hurting me for about 10 years. Throbbing, sore, swollen…… I literally walked up the steps of the plane yesterday and got to the top and was like, “HOLY SHIT!” It didn’t hurt. Woke up this morning and it didn’t hurt. It’s been fantastic!
I go back in for a 1 month checkup on November 18th. Excited because with my knee feeling good and I have an appointment with the dietitian next week, things should get even better. Never felt so motivated about anything in my life. Can safely say that.
Doc told me NOT to weigh myself, and just to worry about my blood sugar levels and blood pressure and the weight will come off…..BUT….. I couldn’t help myself this morning.
On October 19th, I was officially 301lbs.
This morning I was officially 279lbs.

Didn’t create this thread for attaboys or anything like that. Was hoping if any of you out there have dealt with or are dealing with this or are a fitness guru and have any pointers or advice to send my way or anybody else’s way on here, I’m begging you to.
I know I could use all the help I can get! Thinking maybe having this out like this will make me a bit more accountable as well.
You have no idea how good that felt to share. YEARS of pent up frustrations and shame right there, @SlyPokerDog thanks for giving us a forum for this type of thing. Even though I know this isn’t what this place is about…..I consider all of yo…..errrrr a bunch of yo…….errrrr 2 of you friends! In all seriousness, if anybody else is going thru this, @THE HCP is wishing you the best. Thanks FAMS!

Funny how a little weight loss goes a long way, eh? I too had balky, very painful arthritic knees. I was at a point of almost having to crawl up the stairs at night to bed. Went I went to discuss knee replacement options, the orthopedist ran all the necessary tests and then told me I didn't need a replacement. That all I needed to do was lose weight and strengthen my quads. So I did. And now my knees are virtually pain free (except when they get overly cold). And for a guy who never drank a whole lotta H20 the first 50 years of his life, ice water has now become the nectar of the gods. And you are (guarantee-frickin-teed) gonna plateau on the weight loss. DO NOT get discouraged. Just keep going at it, keep walking that dog and progress will resume. It's just your body rejecting its new healthy lifestyle after a lifetime of being indulged and spoiled. You got this John, and you have a great attitude about it. It's a long journey. Don't get discouraged and don't forget to reward yourself occasionally.

 

[THE HCP]

I've been Type 2 for about 15 or so years now. Most of the time I have controlled it with diet, exercise and Metformin. They have had me try adding meds on top of the Metformin, but all they did was make me feel like shit and drain my wallet. I finally refused to take the shit because I don't believe in fighting poison with poison. I also don't feel like paying for the gas for Big Pharma exec's Ferraris. I also don't do the daily monitoring, as I find it confusing and pretty useless. It's like telling you the horse is out of the barn when you already damn well knew that. And again, just another thing to make Big Pharma and their subsidiaries richer. I mean, once I know the number, what am I supposed to do with it other than write it down....?

At my age there isn't much left for an old guy to enjoy, so I am reluctant to stray too far from my favorite foods. I try to limit my sugar intake (I have my good days and my bad) and usually substitute fruit for the processed stuff. I also do my best to keep my carbs as complex as I can. That kind of "compromise", along with a consistent attempt to get between 7K and 10K steps a day (thank God for dogs! You have one of those. Get moving! The dog may even start to finally like you!) helps me keep my A1C consistently below 7.0, which medical studies apparently have found to be acceptable in terms of it's relationship to co-morbidities (other related problems). I tried hard to diet and exercise myself out of the problem but that ain't gonna happen. So I just try to find a happy medium. One thing the journey has helped me do over time was lose significant weight and to get back into the best shape (for me anyway) that I have been in for a long damn time.

Best advice I can give you is; kick the soda permanently (shame on you. That shit is as bad, if not worse for you than alcohol). Start walking your ass off. You'll have the happiest dawg in NEP. Metformin is relatively benign and actually might have some additional positive benefits (but it strips your B-12, so make sure you supplement). The Met, with diet and exercise should suffice in the beginning. DO NOT go on the expensive shit until you absolutely have to. It is pure poison that will make you feel shitty. And it is expensive AF. And it may not actually be needed.

This is probably a "rest of your lifetime" journey. Make an effort to get as far as you can without the meds. And then take only what you need. And make sure your doc is monitoring your kidney function. Because Type 2 diabetes will wreak havoc on them if you are not careful. But the internet CAN be your friend. Educate yourself and don't be too quick to buy 100% into what your doc tells you until you have a wide range of information. Sometimes these guys just find it easier to throw meds at a problem, rather than do the work.

But stop that damn soda pop!!! That and the weight are your two biggest issues.......

Thank you so much. Yes my research is just beginning. I do look forward to more walks with dogs for sure!

 

[THE HCP]

Vant

Funny how a little weight loss goes a long way, eh? I too had balky, very painful arthritic knees. I was at a point of almost having to crawl up the stairs at night to bed. Went I went to discuss knee replacement options, the orthopedist ran all the necessary tests and then told me I didn't need a replacement. That all I needed to do was lose weight and strengthen my quads. So I did. And now my knees are virtually pain free (except when they get overly cold). And for a guy who never drank a whole lotta H20 the first 50 years of his life, ice water has now become the nectar of the gods. And you are (guarantee-frickin-teed) gonna plateau on the weight loss. DO NOT get discouraged. Just keep going at it, keep walking that dog and progress will resume. It's just your body rejecting its new healthy lifestyle after a lifetime of being indulged and spoiled. You got this John, and you have a great attitude about it. It's a long journey. Don't get discouraged and don't forget to reward yourself occasionally.

Can’t thank you enough for the kind words!

 

[Strenuus]

Oh, and there will be a time where you dont even crave soda!

Hardest to kick was caffeine early in life (early 20s) but I havent had it in almost 20 years and dont crave or miss it.

Soda was easier to kick and literally fhe only 2 things I drink are water and powerade/gatorade zero cal zero sugar. And obviously some ciders and such. But thats my only ,"sugary" drink.

It'll become a time where you question why you ever drank soda. I know i got there.

Youll also be surprised at how much soda is now when you never buy it. $10 for a 12 pack now? What the fuck? Lol.

 

[Chris Craig]

Glad you are taking control of your health @THE HCP. That's sounds like a lot to deal with. Glad you got to the doctor and sounds like you are making some good choices. I hope your weight continues to stop and you continue to feel better and better.

I have some issues with weight, not that they compare. I gained about 25 pounds during COVID and I'm overweight by about 20. And, I can't seem to lose it. It's all in my damn stomach. My cholesterol is just on the other side of being high. My blood sugar has been fine. I was diagnosed with high blood pressure this past year. I take Lisinopril every day. It helps to manage my blood pressure quite well.

I have tried to change my diet. I eat more vegetables, more proteins. I have worked on moderation. I try not to take too big of portions because I'll eat until I'm a bit over full if I do. The calorie deficits thing is tough though. I also tried to cut down on my three weaknesses, salt, soda, and candy. While I haven't kicked soda and candy yet (I don't eat a whole lot of candy anymore(I treat myself every once in a while...more around the holidays)...soda though I drink a couple a day and need to chill on. I have stopped adding salt to food at home and on my popcorn at the theatre when I see movies and stuff like that. I haven't been eating cookies or other snack stuff. Overall my diet is a lot better than it used to be, but I still have progress to make there.

I eat a lot of salads with romaine, peppers and olive oil and vinegar dressing. I also like pickles which I know probably aren't the best. I eat green beans, peas, other beans corn (not really a vegetable). I even snack on celery. There are still a lot of vegetables that just aren't appetizing to me, but I find my tastes changing as I get older. I have been eating more rice (brown rice is better) and chicken lately. I like to make some eggs for breakfast, but a lot of times I don't even eat breakfast and I know it's not good. A lot of days, I have a cup of coffee, a water, and I go. Then I will have lunch at work, snack when I get home, and then dinner. I have to get better with breakfast. I know it throws off my blood sugar and I often feel my body crashing a bit before lunch.

I also try to eat a lot of fruit. I love Grapes. I eat pears, apples, and even started liking peaches.

I drink V8.

I keep losing 5-7 pounds then gaining it back. My work is good exercise, and I also try to walk, and work out with some weights I have at home. Not gaining anymore weight, just can't get it off. I really have felt my metabolism slowing the last 10 years. I've been trying to get it going again.

I think more and more about by health. My parents only made it to 64/65. That's only 23/24 years from now for me. I know as far as my dad goes, I'm not a smoker like he was so I don't have to worry about my lungs giving out. My mom though, got Leukemia out of nowhere and it took her quick. She was trying to be healthier herself. She was a bit overweight but didn't smoke or drink - she used to drink but had been sober many decades - She was eating better, going for walks, but it still got her.

I only drink occasionally now myself. A couple rum and coke here or there or a couple beers.

But, yeah just trying to make 70 at least...and a good deal longer than that hopefully.

 

[UncleCliffy'sDaddy]

Glad you are taking control of your health @THE HCP. That's sounds like a lot to deal with. Glad you got to the doctor and sounds like you are making some good choices. I hope your weight continues to stop and you continue to feel better and better.

I have some issues with weight, not that they compare. I gained about 25 pounds during COVID and I'm overweight by about 20. And, I can't seem to lose it. It's all in my damn stomach. My cholesterol is just on the other side of being high. My blood sugar has been fine. I was diagnosed with high blood pressure this past year. I take Lisinopril every day. It helps to manage my blood pressure quite well.

I have tried to change my diet. I eat more vegetables, more proteins. I have worked on moderation. I try not to take too big of portions because I'll eat until I'm a bit over full if I do. The calorie deficits thing is tough though. I also tried to cut down on my three weaknesses, salt, soda, and candy. While I haven't kicked soda and candy yet (I don't eat a whole lot of candy anymore(I treat myself every once in a while...more around the holidays)...soda though I drink a couple a day and need to chill on. I have stopped adding salt to food at home and on my popcorn at the theatre when I see movies and stuff like that. I haven't been eating cookies or other snack stuff. Overall my diet is a lot better than it used to be, but I still have progress to make there.

I eat a lot of salads with romaine, peppers and olive oil and vinegar dressing. I also like pickles which I know probably aren't the best. I eat green beans, peas, other beans corn (not really a vegetable). I even snack on celery. There are still a lot of vegetables that just aren't appetizing to me, but I find my tastes changing as I get older. I have been eating more rice (brown rice is better) and chicken lately. I like to make some eggs for breakfast, but a lot of times I don't even eat breakfast and I know it's not good. A lot of days, I have a cup of coffee, a water, and I go. Then I will have lunch at work, snack when I get home, and then dinner. I have to get better with breakfast. I know it throws off my blood sugar and I often feel my body crashing a bit before lunch.

I also try to eat a lot of fruit. I love Grapes. I eat pears, apples, and even started liking peaches.

I drink V8.

I keep losing 5-7 pounds then gaining it back. My work is good exercise, and I also try to walk, and work out with some weights I have at home. Not gaining anymore weight, just can't get it off. I really have felt my metabolism slowing the last 10 years. I've been trying to get it going again.

I think more and more about by health. My parents only made it to 64/65. That's only 23/24 years from now for me. I know as far as my dad goes, I'm not a smoker like he was so I don't have to worry about my lungs giving out. My mom though, got Leukemia out of nowhere and it took her quick. She was trying to be healthier herself. She was a bit overweight but didn't smoke or drink - she used to drink but had been sober many decades - She was eating better, going for walks, but it still got her.

I only drink occasionally now myself. A couple rum and coke here or there or a couple beers.

But, yeah just trying to make 70 at least...and a good deal longer than that hopefully.

I love V8 but boy howdy is it loaded with sodium. I tried the low sodium stuff but then it doesn't taste anywhere near as good as the "leaded" stuff......

 

[Chris Craig]

I love V8 but boy howdy is it loaded with sodium. I tried the low sodium stuff but then it doesn't taste anywhere near as good as the "leaded" stuff......

Yeah, I know. I have been trying the low sodium because I have been cutting down the salt. Certainly, doesn't taste as good, but It helps me get vegetables, I would not otherwise eat.

 

[Chris Craig]

You go to the doctor and they say stop eating processed food. Almost everything is fricken processed.

 

[SlyPokerDog]

Mrs PokerDog loved, I mean, LOVED her diet coke. She still has one a day but I got her to drink a ton more water by adding a little flavor to it.

These aren't bad.

 

[Chris Craig]

Mrs PokerDog loved, I mean, LOVED her diet coke. She still has one a day but I got her to drink a ton more water by adding a little flavor to it.

These aren't bad.

View attachment 76909

I use stuff like that sometimes. I also have a brita and I fill it constantly and drink glasses of water from it. I drink a lot of water at work too.

 

[Phatguysrule]

Mrs PokerDog loved, I mean, LOVED her diet coke. She still has one a day but I got her to drink a ton more water by adding a little flavor to it.

These aren't bad.

View attachment 76909

Are these things good? I often wonder... Crystal light as well. It's tough to know...

 

[Chris Craig]

Are these things good? I often wonder... Crystal light as well. It's tough to know...

Some are better than others. My son drinks those. We don't allow him to drink much soda. Usually water mixed with one of those. We use Stur because it doesn't have red 40.

 

[JfizzleBlazer]

Mrs PokerDog loved, I mean, LOVED her diet coke. She still has one a day but I got her to drink a ton more water by adding a little flavor to it.

These aren't bad.

View attachment 76909

I like Diet soda too. My stomach doctor said its bad for your gut. Carbonated drinks aren't great for your bladder either.

When I drink mostly water I feel like all my weird little health things go away.

 

[SlyPokerDog]

I'm such the hydro homie I can tell the difference when Portland is using Bull Run or when they switch the wells in east county. Portland Bull Run water is the best by far.