CatHerder's Journal, 02 March 2016

@northern - They used to do a 5 hour glucose tolerance test here, but no more. It was similar to what you described, but they continue to take samples periodically over 4-5 hours to watch what the blood sugar does. It can be telling if, after initially going high from the drink, it goes really low in subsequent periods. That tells them your pancreas is over-responsive. When I asked about this test at the doctor's recently, they said they don't do it anymore. They just do the A1c. I really wonder how accurate that is, and if it can really tell the whole story. 

Doctors are trained do deal with people with pathologies. They do what the medical community says to do and to keep their insurance liability low. If they go against the current medical dogma, they are wide open to being sued with no support. As a nurse friend of mine asked, "Why would you go to a doctor for diet advice? You're healthy." 

@northern...look at Cholesterol meds, perfect example. A Dr. may not want to put you on Statins..but if he doesn't it could result in lawsuits, as statins are the normal course of treatment even if they are virtually useless in preventing heart disease. 

So true about doctors' liabilities. But if the patient refuses the prescription then they are off the hook. Then MAYBE they can look at alternatives to the SOP. 

I "fired" my doctor that diagnosed me with diabetes. She wanted me to immediately go on insulin in addition to Metformin. I read up on metformin and it works by reducing glucose release from the liver so I figured it wasn't too bad. I wouldn't go on insulin just yet, wanted to try diet and weight loss. The diet counseling I got was to include carbs with every meal. Made no sense to me so I went on low-carb (<30g carbs/day). I also starting walking. That combined with the weight loss got me off the metformin and my A1c back into the normal range in less than 6 months. I currently don't have any issues with carb tolerance. It's not an easy path but well worth it to better health. 

Well done CatHerder! 

@catherder great news, not only is blood sugar back where it should be, you're also future proofing yourself with a much better understanding of how the puzzle pieces fit together. 

I have been dealing with type 2 diabetes about 5 years. It came with a sudden gain and lifestyle change. Since I have lost most of the weight my doctor has been able to reduce my medications and eliminate one completely. I still have diabetes but my diet has been helpful. When I have a bad day diet wise, it's often reflected in my sugar levels. This is especially true if I eat carbs heavily late at night...  

You've done great John, I also love your long term goal.....er I should, it's the same as mine. Have a great day!! 

Belly fat is a problem for me. I am an "apple", carry my excess in my belly instead of my hips. Working hard to get rid of it because it is the most dangerous. Thanks for sharing this important info.