Always hungry, but for carbs. only!!!

[Piano333]

I was diagnosed with D2 in 2015. Initially, I didn't see a need to change anything in my life. Back in '15, my numbers were well above 8. Since then, I have had regular tests every 3 months. I wouldn't miss one. My latest results are 7.4. My gp is quite happy, but I'm not. I am aiming at 6/6.5. I despair because I can't eat anything I like. It seems that everything has carbs in it. Food shopping has become a nightmare. I spend all my time reading the labels and there is not a SINGLE THING in any store that doesn't contain carbs. I can't spend the rest of my life eating greens and fruits. Does anyone else experience this frustration? How can I possibly eat one miserable slice of bread without feeling that I am putting my life in danger? Thanks for reading this long post.

[Praveen55 Star]

You can eat some carb like a slice of brown bread. There are loads of food items which have no/negligible carb, e.g. Meat, Eggs, Cheese, Butter, Olive oil, select nuts and seeds.

There are two ways to manage diabetes. 1. Eat carb-rich food and then go on taking progressively increasing dose of medicines/insulin to control blood sugar.

2. Follow a sensible diet like LCHF and control blood sugar without medications or significantly reduced medications. The choice is ours.

I personally follow the second approach which keeps my blood sugar in non-diabetic range without any medications. I am much more healthier. Diabetics need not be hungry. It is only that we have to develop a new relationship with food. We as diabetics cannot process carbs as efficiently as non-diabetics therefore it makes sense to reduce its consumption.

Yes, I agree with you that your HbA1c of 7.4% is high and you should aim for 6% as you mentioned.

[Piano333 in reply to Praveen55]

Thanks Praveen 55 for responding to my email. Just one more question: what does LCHF stand for? I also think that I should switch drs. My gp has no time to address my concerns. We never talk about exercise. Only suggests running as a way to lose weight and lower my numbers. He also told me that I could eat as many eggs as I want. I am presently eating 2 a day. I LOVE eggs and could eat a dozen in one sitting.

Since I have had cholesterol problems for many years for which I am taking meds, I am seriously wondering about his credentials. Piano 333.

[Praveen55 Star in reply to Piano333]

LCHF: Low Carb High Fat. There are lot of information available on the net, e.g. see dietdoctor.com What is your typical diet in a day? If you have any further question, we will be happy to assist you.

Egg is good, no problem. But anything in excess may not be good. You can have three eggs a day if you like. Walking/running is also good.

[Activity2004 Administrator]

Hi Piano333 ,

As Praveen55 has said, there are lots of food items that have between very few-no carbs. at all. But, each person needs some carbs. so that the brain and the rest of the body can function the correct way and no one gets sick. What has your doctor told you at your last appointment? Did they recommend a low carb-high fat diet or a low carb-high protein diet? What exercises did they recommend?

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Hi Piano333

I know exactly where you're coming from! U sound like me talking...I'm always feeling hungry but everything I want is full of carbs 😞. Yes I think u should change your gp too

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I have a few recipes I make that are fairly low carb but substitute for my favorite cakes, etc. All made with coconut and/or almond flour and loads of eggs.

I make a quick pancake mix with coconut flour, egg, cream cheese and coconut milk, eaten with a few raspberries or blueberries.

I have bread occasionally, but hovis or morrisons lower carb bread. Otherwise I make the 90 second bread (with almond flour, although I like to add milled flaxseed too).