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This blog is the first in a two-part series in which we discuss the top 10 diabetes myths.
Hello, bloggers. I've been looking at articles from a number of popular diabetes magazines and other resources about diabetes myths. Each one seems to have its own list of the top five or 10 diabetes myths.
I decided to develop my own list of the top 10 diabetes myths that I've heard as a diabetes educator at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. I'll reveal five this week, five next week.
Here goes (drum roll).
I have borderline diabetes or just a touch of diabetes.
Either you have it or you don't. Two fasting blood sugar readings over 126 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or 7 millimoles per liter (mmol/L); a random blood glucose over 200 mg/dL (11.1 mmol/L); or an A1C of 6.5 percent or higher are all considered diabetes.
I don't know why I got diabetes, I never eat sweets.
Just about everything you eat is converted into glucose — sugar — so for most people with type 2 diabetes, what you eat is not as important as how much you eat. When you overeat, you're adding extra calories your body doesn't need for energy, so your body will convert these extra calories into fat. Being overweight is a predisposing factor for developing diabetes.
I can't eat carbohydrates; it makes my blood sugars go high.
Of course they do — even people who don't have diabetes will see an elevation in their blood glucose after eating. Carbohydrates should be approximately 50 percent of your daily food intake each day. Carbohydrates are your fuel, without them you will have little energy.
If I have to go on insulin; that must mean my diabetes is really bad.
You know, insulin has gotten a bad rap through the years. It's the blood glucose control that determines whether you go on insulin; if diet alone or diet along with oral or noninsulin-injectable diabetes medication(s) is not controlling the blood glucose, insulin is necessary.
Insulin causes complications of diabetes.
Again, insulin has gotten a bad rap. Insulin is a natural hormone and is probably one of the safest medications around. Insulin helps control the blood glucose, which in turn slows down or prevents diabetes complications.
Your thoughts? What are some of the diabetes myths you have come across?
Have a great week,
Nancy Klobassa Davidson, R.N.
Peggy Moreland, R.N.
Selecting "Submit" signifies that you have read and agree to our posting guidelines.
Rajiv: Good job! You have diabetes well controlled with diet and exercise.
I go to my doctor every year for annual check ups.
In 2010, A1C was 9.7 and fasting glucose was 6.0 During the 3 months before the blood test, I had plenty of fruit juices and sugary drinks. I was told I have diabetes. So I changed my lifestyle completely.
In 2011, A1C was 6.3 and fasting glucose was 4.9
In 2012, A1C was 6.0 and fasting glucose was 5.1 (I was told by the same doctor that I am very healthy)
Given the above, I am still not sure whether I have diabetes. I don't have any of the symptoms either. I live a lifestyle as if I have the condition.
Unfortunately, there is much misunderstanding/poor knowledge of diabetes. Type 1 is an autoimmune disease and not caused by poor eating habits.
Lisa, you wrote "My 6 year old great niece had to be flown to UC Davis medical center, because she (all of a sudden) developed type1/juvenile diabetes. Her parents have done things in the past like allow to her have pepsi all the time fast food for meals. How can my sister and I help educate the parents as they have 3 more kids 3, and 4months"
Please note unhealthy diet DOES NOT CAUSE TYPE 1 DIABETES! That is a HUGE myth, and your niece and her family will most likely see dieticians and doctors for the rest of her life. Please do not lecture the family. They have enough going on, and the little girl will likely receive uneducated advice like yours for the rest of her life. I think it also contributes to the rising rates of type 1 diabetic women who develop eating disorders. Giving uneducated advice like this is extremely hurtful to those with type 1 diabetes.
My doctor is coding me 790.21 (Impaired Fasting Glucose) even though my fasting glucose has never broken past 100; it's usually in the mid 90s and has been as low as mid 80s. I'm concerned this will be used to deny me employment or insurance in the future. I'm mid 50s, BMI is 26-27 and I get a moderate amount of exercise each day riding a bike to work. Is this a common practice? Are there financial incentives for doctors to overdiagnose prediabetes?
Not that it's a bad thing, I could stand to lose 10 or 20 pounds. I disagree that "you either have it or you don't". Anyone over 50, with a BMI over 20, and over 50% carbs in their diet should make lifestyle changes to minimize their risk.
Risk factors for T2 diabetes: family history, being overweight, lack of activity, age, race, pregnancy,and stressors like sugery, infections and medications such as steroids. All risk factors for T2 diabetes may not be known.
Does type 2 diabetes develop over time due to unhealthy food intake?
Ann, if your daughter does not have any other conditions that would be contradictory with drinking alcohol; high blood pressure, neuropathy, etc. and it is OK with her provider to drink alcohol. This is what the American Diabetes Association says: 1 alcoholic beverage per day for women and 2 for men. A beverage is considered one 12 oz beer,one 5 oz. glass of wine, and one 1 & 1/2 oz. of hard liquor.
You don't differentiate between type 1 and type 2 diabetes in your article. My son developed type 1 when he was thirteen and it had nothing to do with lifestyle, weight or eating habits. He was a healthy boy , ate very few sweets and had a healthy diet. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. I'm sure you are aware of all these facts but perhaps it would be helpful to mention the distinct differences between the two conditions as a medical information site should.
I really think that this blog is informative, however, I also feel that it is very vague for those who are not fully educated on diabetes. The first myth covered about having, or not having, borderline diabetes is very true but there are people whole are hypoglycemic or hyperglycemic. There are also people like myself who have problems both ways with their blood sugar but only every few months. My blood sugar for days at a time will fall well below normal and sometimes well above and then be fine for months. Also, the subject of carbohydrates is very true as well, but I really feel that it should be stressed that it is important for a diabetic to eat complex carbs as opposed to simple. Whole grain breads ands other carbs will do better to keep sugar levels normal then white breads and other refined carbs. Other then those points, I believe this blog is very helpful.
My daughter has been diagnosed with Diabetes 1
at age 37. Is she allowed drink alcohol?
She tells me it lowers her sugar level.
Zoe mentioned her blood sugar higher in the mornings, so was mine. It's called dawn phenomenon: not exactly sure how to explain it so maybe looking it up is best for the full information. Anyway I read that eating a small amount of peanut butter before bed works. I tried it and it does. I have a piece of toast with just a little peanut butter. Morning numbers are good :)
Warfarin is not on my list of medications that raise the blood glucose. The 132 number on your personal meter does not indicate on it's own you have diabetes. This needs to be verified in a lab showing two fasting blood glucose readings above 126 mg/dl or a random BG reading greater than 200 mg/dl or an A1c test at 6.5 or above.
I take warfin and other meds.i always had a level of 109.
Now I just took a test (home) and it registar 132. Does this mean all
Of a sudden I have diabetes?
Michael: Pre-diabetes is not diabetes, so the statement that "you either have diabetes or you do not" is correct.
In the 2010 MMR package insert Merck states - "The following adverse reactions are listed in decreasing order of severity, without regard to causality...".
Some of those adverse reactions are Pancreatitis and Diabetes Mellitis. Also are Panniculitis, Chronic Arthritis, Thrombocytopenia, Lymphadenopathy,leukocytosis, myalgia, paresthesia and more!
All of thses disorders are autoimmune disorders or associated with autoimmune disorders.
That one vaccine is repeatedly tied to autoimmune diseases would appear to be a real alarm bell to the medical and regulatory communities.
The association of MMR vaccine with Diabetes Mellitis needs to be determine with certainty immediately!
In response to this comment "I have borderline diabetes or just a touch of diabetes" the authors state - "Either you have it or you don't."
Yet on these Mayo Clinic webpages ( http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/diabetes/DS01121 OR http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/prediabetes/DS00624 OR http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/prediabetes/MY01421 ) they refer to "prediabetes".
Remarkably one of the authors' own blogs talks about prediabetes, but doesn't mention it here.
@Rebecca: Diabetes is a known risk factor for Frozen Shoulder.
My sister has a "frozen shoulder". She was told it might have been caused because she has diabetes. She has done therapy for about one month and it is not helping. Surgery was now advised. Can diabetes cause frozen shoulder? Thanks you
We have worked with many nurses that have diabetes and wear insulin pumps. Many pump wears are diabetes educators. Great nurses.
Recent research suggests that cinnamon may be helpful as a supplement to regular diabetes treatment in people with type 2 diabetes. I talked with one of our endocrine consultants and it is fine to take cinnamon with Metformin.
I have found that cinnamon reduces my glucose counts..is this ok to take with my metformin?
I have Type 1 Diabetes with an insulin pump, can i get a job as a nurse?
My 6 year old great niece had to be flown to UC Davis medical center, because she (all of a sudden) developed type1/juvenile diabetes. Her parents have done things in the past like allow to her have pepsi all the time fast food for meals. How can my sister and I help educate the parents as they have 3 more kids 3, and 4months
I went through your posting and found some idea about Type 2 Diabetes. I really appreciate your work. Your writing provides some knowledge about the Type 2 Diabetes and makes people aware of this type of diseases. It gives some idea about the impact of the disease and the steps to be taken care of. All of your posts were awesome. Thanks for sharing.
Zoe, you sound very frustrated and understandably. You may be on the wrong medication program and could benefit by seeing a new provider. In addition, seeing a diabetes educator can help you understand some reasons for the ups and downs of the blood glucose and how to balance it. Good luck.
My blood sugar levels just makes NO SENSE whatsoever. Sometimes it's where it should be but more often it goes high for no reason. I can eat a boiled egg for breakfast and a few spoonfuls of tuna over salad greens for lunch and when I get home my sugar is nearly 200.
It's always high in the morning even if it's fine before I go to bed, no matter what I eat or don't eat.
I'd do anything it took to get my sugars under control if I could just figure out something that actually works. All my doctor ever says is that I need to lose weight and that my sugars wouldn't be high in the morning if I didn't eat too much at night but I have literally fasted entire days and nothing changes. I want to cry sometimes I get so frustrated, I wonder if I should bother dieting at all because it only makes me feel terrible and doesn't seem to have any effect.
My question is about insulin.
Blood sugar swings are also related to other hormonal factors, in these cases like menopause would insulin help and how????
I'm amazed when offered food (especially desserts) and I say "No thank you", people push it on me. I explain that I have diabetes, and all too often, they say "Oh, you can have just one", or "I have diabetes too, but I eat it". Would you push alcohol on a recovering alcoholic? Would you say "I know you have allergies, but my cat will only be with you a couple of days"? What am I missing?
The tingling feeling in the finger tips is not a side effect of Metformin and may indicate the nerve endings in the finger tips have been irritated from high blood glucoses.
Additionally, if you are not on a hyperglycemic drug to lower the blood glucose it is rare to have hypoglycemia. Nights sweats occur with other conditions and you should talk to your health care provider.
i'm a 63 yo male
i am diagnosed type2 7 yrs
i lost 50lbs increased exercise gave up white food no alchol a1c 6.3
podiatrist prescibed metanyx for foot neuroparhy couldn't afford have been taking vitB complex & much relieved
recently i awoke in drenching sweat although temp 60F. ??? hypoglycemic??
your thoughts please
I am 66 years of age. I was diagnosed Tyoe II 3 years ago. Recently I started to feel a tingling sensation in the tips of my fingers. Around the same time I was started on Metformin. Could the tingling be a side effect of this new medication?
I am type 2 diabetic, but I also have high cholesterol and don't think I can take a medication for it as I already take mercaptopurine for another health problem this medication effects my liver,how do I get the
cholesterol down???
Does eating too much sugar cause diabetes?
our son was eleven when we found out he was TYPE one...it has been four years now and he is one of the healthest teenagers around...he knows about carb counting and handles this all very well...we are very active as parents and this has proven to be a strong factor in his positive learning. We feel parents really need to support the child in living with this and believe you mean it has not been easy sometimes..but just think of it this way parents..the next time you have to make sure you cook the right carbs when you do not feel like cooking..remember he has this forever and will always have to cook proper everytime so suck it up and show him the right way..
How do you feel about the Alktins Diet? If you are not eating no red meat.. but chicken, fish and turkey.
My child (boy, 12 years old, athletic) loves sweets-his grand father had type 1 or 2 diabetes. What are my child's risk factors
My niece who has type 1 diabetes seems a little pale. she is very active but are there any supplements we can concider for her that do not contain sugar? She is only 6 years old
I'm a pre diabetic i have lost 21 lbs which i hate i'm too skinny and need to gain weight i eat small things all day i take my one pill metoformin with my breakfast but i have spikes after dinner sometimes it's high 2hours after i eat like tonight it was 192 i was shocked i do not what to go on insulin i did eat a small ribeye and alittle to much wheat bread at outback tonight i do work out not like i should i just can't aford to lose anymore weight i weigh 95 lbs but i am only 5 ft going to a endoconolist feb7 but they were more concerned if i were having low's i do not have that ever please help !!!!
Are you kidding me? Carbs should be 50% of your diet? That's irresponsible.
I have decided to go carbohydrate eliminating diet after noticing my glucose level just elaborates with portionated meal I have struggle to meet. Yes, just about everything is carbohydrate food, but I choose nuts, lean meat, allowing me sugar free chocolate occasionally. Am I wrong or is there something important like complication occuring factors that I am missing in the way of my diet?,please help.
My wife has diabetes. Two hrs after she eats it might rise 1 or 2 points. What is happening to the glucose. There seems to be nothing steady about her levles. Where does the glucose go when two hrs after a meal when she doesn't take a shot the level only goes up 1 point?
Sharon: You are commended for all your efforts making lifestyle changes! The one thing we cannot control is our family genetics and you have a strong family history of type 2 diabetes. However, because you have made these lifestyle changes you are slowing the progression to type 2 diabetes.
Here in Mexico a frequent Myth is that the use of insulin makes you blind, there is a huge problem with some patients to make them understand that is not true.
Extremely helpful knowledge, can't wait to read the next 5. I am 15 and have been on metmorfin for over a year for glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. I'm just learning about diabetes, they consider me pre-diabetic. Thanks for the information.
Nancy posted on 10 myths surrounding Diabetes saying, "Insulin is a natural hormone and is probably one of the safest medications around." i have just recently been diagnosed with type II Diabetes and am researching the pros and cons of the numerous medications out there for diabetes. After reading Nancy's blog, my question is this. Rather than taking Metformin, Actos or other prescribed diabetic medication that has numerous risks associated with them, why not just do insulin? Why is insulin only considered after recommended oral meds are found ineffective?
Nancy and Peggy: I am 58, with a family history of Type II diabetes (my mother and her siblings). Seven years ago I had my first fasting Glucose of 100, the following year, 102. So I got busy with lifestyle changes: I lost 35 lbs (am 5'3" and have maintained 132-135 for the past 3 years), I have been working with a trainer 3X/week for 4 years, and do 2-3 additional days of cardio. I lead an active lifestyle, hiking, biking and kayaking 1-3 per week on a regular basis. I eat a healthy diet of whole foods and lots of vegetables/fruits, primarily fish/chicken. I don't smoke. I do consume alcohol, but not daily. My blood pressure is 90-100/75 and I have low cholesterol. Last week I had another fasting glucose test and it is now 104!!! What else can I do? Is it inevitable that I will become a diabetic? Please tell me what to do as I do NOT want to develop the disease if I can possibly help it. Thank you.
Nancy, Thank you so much for the information.
Cindy, if you're following the diet that's recommended by the ADA or most doctors, dietitians and nutritionists, of course your diabetes symptoms will get worse.
The primary key for treating Type II diabetes is to dramatically lower your carbohydrate intake. You do NOT need 50% of your calories from carbohydrate unless you want to be a FAT, INSULIN-DEPENDENT Diabetic.
I have a maximum of between 5 and 10% of my calories from carbohydrate and feel fine. It takes anywhere from a few days to two weeks to adjust to low-carb lifestyle, but once you do, it's great.
I have the energy I need, even as someone that does sub-4 hour 100km bike rides - all with a degenerative spinal condition.
I now eat LCHF (Low-Carb, High-Fat) and organic/natural foods whenever possible. My A1c literally dropped to less than HALF what it was (12.1 to 6.0) and my BG's are almost always in the normal range, with no spikes into dangerous levels. My lipid profile is improved also!
Anyway, it's just my feeling if your numbers aren't going down, and if you're still producing insulin, that you need to drop the carbs as much as possible until your numbers stabilize.
Good luck!
Can anyne explain what is "charcot foot" and what are its consecuences over a period of time?
I was just diagnosed with pre-type 2 diabetes. During my first 2 weeks of taking my glucose readings my levels stayed consistent 90-135. the doc put me on metformin 500mg once a day. That was a month ago. Since the increase my blood glucose level have increase to 103-176. I do not understand this, I have change everything, the way I eat, exercising, ect.ect.. He just increased my Metformin to two pills a day. I still follow the diet and exercise plan but feel like Im doing something wrong. I am so confused as to why my glucose is increasing! can anyone help me understand what is going on. SO CONFUSED!!! ty Cindy
i didn't become diabetic until i used zyprexa for a couple years. now i use abilify but am still diabetic.
The Truth:
Measurable indications of diabetes are as follows:
Fasting Plasma Glucose(FPG) - >99 (mg/dl)
Glucose tolerance (OGTT) 2 hours after meal - > 139 (mg/dl)
A1c > 5.7 %
For the real truth about DIABETES you need to go to:
AHHHHH sigh. Thank you! I needed to read that. I am 33 and diagnosed with Type 1 - 2 years ago. Although, at times I get frustrated with being diabetic and having to do insulin shots; I am very very grateful to be a diabetic in this day and age. Insulin and needles now days is safe and more convient than it has ever been. Sometimes I forget how lucky I am to have it. I'm here because of it! and will be for a very long time! Keep your heads up diabetics!!!
Fran, Type 2 diabetes : In recent studies, adults given vitamin D supplementation were shown to improve insulin sensitivity. Further research is needed to confirm these results.
Pam: The American Diabetes Association discusses diabetes and alcohol thoroughly. Here is the link: http://www.diabetes.org/food-and-fitness/food/what-can-i-eat/alcohol.html
Obe: Since you have recently had hand surgery and are having tingling you should ask your surgeon about the tingling in your fingers.
Chuck: The best way to control high blood glucose is through diet, exercise, and diabetes medication/insulin.
@Fran, I appreciate Nancy and Peggy's efforts, and look for answers here and elsewhere. To demand an answer from someone who is not your primary care provider seems to me to be a bit unrealistic. Always get your final answer from your physician, not a blog or other website. Just my opinion
i'm a diabetic an i had a trigger finder operation and now i have tingling in my fingers on one hand and in 3 fingers on the other,is this nerve damage or what?
Asked this same question a week ago!
Will iron supplements help with abnormally high glucose readings?? I read that this could be a problem with some high readings?
Nancy and Peggy, why don't you answer these questions? 99% of the questions go unanswered as far as I can see. Either you're there and ready to answer each and every question and do this job or this is a waste of time and a waste of hopes for answers.
I have Type 2 Diabetes, am not overweight and eat well to control my blood sugar. I'm not on any medication. I've found that many people believe eating any dessert is forbidden. I've explained what I eat, greatly effects my blood sugar. Pizza and pasta are the culprits for me. I can eat dessert, but it's best eaten with a meal. I've also heard that a diabetic should never drink alcohol. I have a glass of wine, a scotch, or a beer now and then and don't think it's proved detrimental to controlling my blood sugar. What do you think?
I shiver sometimes even when it is hot out and I get blurred vision when I eat sweet, or even worse, I get sick to my stomach. and the room just goes round. I oven over urinate, even when I'm not taking diaurtics. What must be the problem.
Maureen: Good question! Diabetes Type 1 used to be called Juvenile Diabetes as it was once thought to occur only in those below the age of 20. In fact, type 1 can occur at any age. On the other hand, type 2 diabetes which used to be called "adult onset diabetes" is occurring more and more at a younger age, even children.
I FOIND THIS INFORMATION TO BE VERY INTERESTING. I was just diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and insulin dependent. I am 50 years old and not overweight. I'M ASSUMING I ACQUIRED IT FRIM MY MOM EHO WAS DIABETIC ALSO. MY QUESTION IS , I THOIGHT TYPE 1 WAS JUVENILE DIABETES?
Add my voice to all the others who take exception to your advice to make carbohydrates 50% of your diet. This is extremely poor advice.
Please read up on Dr Bernstein, Gary Taubes, or this site: http://www.phlaunt.com/diabetes/.
These are not quacks, but people with intelligent, well-researched information, that is gradually becoming more and more accepted.
I have angina high bp im on medication and anti deppressents i need to go to the toilet constantly started eating sweet things after 8 years feel weak somtimes no energy get an ich on my legs when it starts more i scratch the more it itches was thinking might need to get tested for diabtes
I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in Dec.2010. My BG readings had been high during repeated admissions following open heart surgery in Jan.,2010,followed by a number of complications requiring readmissions and a significant amount of steroid administration. The decision by the PCP was education, diet control, exercise and monitoring of my BG. My reading is most generally highest in the early morning--Up to 200 --so I was told to increase my bedtime snack. That helps the BG but also increases my weight which is NOT good for my cardiac status. The rest of the day readings are in the 150-180range. Last HA1C was 6.6. I am not on any meds. For diabetes. Any suggestions for consideration? thanks!
Two years ago, when I was diagnosed, I went on a low carb diet (rarely over 50 g per day), and greatly increased my intake of fats. All my lipid numbers went from out of range to excellent within ninety days. I gradually lost fifty pounds without trying. I've been able to control my D2 with metformin alone. If I were to eat 50% of my diet in carbs, low- or high glycemic, my blood glucose would go through the roof. I'd have to be on insulin, with its attendant problems of insulinemia, weight gain, and, worst of all, the ongoing danger of hypoglycemia, which can be fatal, not to mention all the muss and fuss of constant testing, carrying insulin around with me, and so on. Fortunately, I never have to worry about any of these dangers. I haven't seen a number below 80 or over 140 in a year. I regard my life as unaffected by the disease.
Based upon my reading and the advice of my endocrinologist, the information in this blog entry seems hopelessly outdated and incorrect. Were I to follow it, it would also be dangerous. At the very least, these ladies should read the Bernstein book, some of more accurate online material (bloodsugar101.com, for example) and the studies of the last twenty years and bring themselves up to date.
Carbohydrates should be 50% of your diet? You obviously have no idea what you're talking about! Go read "Good Calories, Bad Calories" by Gary Taubes and get a clue.
I have been diagnosed as diabetic for two years know I was put on insulin right away and i am on a insulin pump ,I eat better know then I ever did but I have put on 30 pounds very up set and deppressed about it I just feel stuck . I have been walking and riding my bike still gaining
Is it common to have a constant sweet taste in you mouth are diabetic?
What is the recomendation for over the counter vitamin suppliments for Diabetes Type 2. My Doctor is advising 5000 units of D...triple fish oil...no calcium+vitamin D. Metformin 4 a day...Actos...Plus my regular Multi Vitamin...Zero Carbs...One fruit a day...no vegtables except lettuce or raw...
I just was diagnosed in Feb...shouldm't I at least give diet and exercise a chance??? I am swimming an hour a day and/or walking an hour a day...My blood levels are 113, in the am...and will be starting a support group, where I am going to find a different doctor. He seems to be just wanting to give pills and more pills. What is the thought on this pill taking approach???
Diabetic drugs Januvia and Onlyza turn off a tumor suppressor gene that proects against prostate cancer. Any truth to this and will it's use cause prostate cancer?
Okay, not eveyone who has type 2 diabetes "eats themselves into it". Some people have diseases that make them prone to getting it, such as myself. Thyroid conditions or P.C.O.S. (Polycystic ovarian syndrome) can make people gain weight and increase the chance of getting Type 2 Diabetes.
Nancy ~~ You indicated in your discussion of Myth #3 that carbohydrates should be approximately 50 percent of one's daily food intake each day. How is this to be measured? Grams (or ounces) of non-carb food versus grams (or ounces) of carb food? Or versus carb grams? I would like to be comparing apples with apples. Thank you (and thanks for this useful feature!)
I"m so confuse about all this diabetic thing
how do I know which type of diabetes I have?
I was the caregiver to my mother that began having diabetic symptoms due to an onslaught of medications. She was relatively fair in weight ~ not overweight, was active, but had sever autoimmune diseases. Granted her situations of health demanded such medicinals, we learned that carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and certain vegetations were key in maintaining a healthy blood sugar level. Upon a time in which I was carrying my first child, I was diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes. Granted it isn't a permanent diabetes but it is treated as such and a balanced diet in a healthy wave or peak levels is key. I was hardly over-weight when diagnosed...even with being expectant. You also CAN be border lined diabetic! It's called hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. These types of glucose/pancreatic disorders are pre-cursors for the building of more damage ~ Type 1 Diabetes or Type 2 Diabetes depending on the particular body at hand. Please, unless you are fully educated on the subject of diabetes, refrain from "myths" as someone may not take the time to read the educated comments.
My friend with type 2 diabetes said he was not suppose to take ibuprofen only tylenol if needed.Is that true?
does insulin cause rapid weight gain?
I have type 2 diabetes. I am not over weight, i've been active my hole life; a cheerleader in high school and the Navy after that. I have been reading, and it seems like people are saying its my fault for having diabetes... How???
So, I've been told that I am "pre-diabetic". It appears from your blog that this is just a nice way of saying that I AM diabetic? I have regular hemoglobin Ac! and fasting glucose tests. They are 'slightly' elevated. What do you think? Should I just be told I am diabetic or what? I prefer a straight answer!
I agree with the comment that type 1 should be called something different. Being diagnosed at 33 one year ago was awesome, but please don't group me together with type 2's. I'm not fat, have never been fat, and I didn't eat myself into the disease. I was the only type 1 in my diabetes 101 classes at the hospital. The other 20 type 2 people were all overweight. If you are type 1 get a pump. Best technology ever invented!
Having had no insurance for the past four years, my diet has consisted for the most part of leafy green vegetables and lean meat. I can now not afford to even purchase test strips or meters. However, I fully believe that going off of the insulin stimulating medications, as well as keeping a close eye on the amount and type of carbohydrates that I consume, has been the dietary regimen that has allowed me to shovel off the extra 45 pounds of body fat that had made me feel totally miserable in the past. I am of the belief that keeping my insulin level low has helped me cut down on the amount of fat that my body wants to retain. I hope that I am not the only person who has been aided by going off of the insulin-stimulating drug regimen. There must be a significant correlation between the amount of insulin in the body and the body's ability to burn off, rather than store its extra blubber. I no longer feel the low blood sugar shakes, and I seem to never fall asleep due to excessive blood sugar levels. I can only surmise that there is a great and powerful God who makes it available for me to disregard the medicines and progress in health. May He bless you all!
Re: "Insulin is a natural hormone and is probably one of the safest medications around." That is, if you check your blood glucose regularly, or know how to recognize your own symptoms of hypoglycemia. Otherwise, you could die.
I have heard from the dr. and others that insulin causes weight gain. I give myself insulin (lantus) 45 units every evening before bed. I seem to be gaining weight around my middle.
As a diabetes educator, I start by asking my patients "which people groups in the world do not get diabetes." The answer is the rural poor, village people of India, China, South America, etc. (Not city people) Why don't they? They eat mainly rice, beans, vegetables and some fruit. They rarely can afford meat and don't have access to processed foods. I know, I lived in rural India for several months. They eat all Carb. If carb caused diabetes, these people would really have it! So who has the highest diabetes rate in the world? Native Americans. What do they eat? Well, I lived on reservations for 10 years and worked for Indian Health. They fry everything--bread, noodles, meat, potatoes. Lots of meat. Here you have the basis of type 2 diabetes. If you can get your type 2 patients to cut way back on animal products (even low fat) and eat less fat and start eating whole grains, beans, fruits, vegetables and nuts, diabetes (and extra pounds) starts to slowly disappear.
V.C. If people have higher blood glucoses at the onset of diabetes they can experience swelling in the lower extermites; as the blood glucose stabilizes with better blood glucose control, the swelling is generally short lived. Often people will gain weight when they start insulin because they can use the calories they consume better instead of losing calories through the urine (frequent urination). V.C. frequent lows and the hunger symptoms may indicate your medication needs to be adjusted lower. Check this out with your health care provider.
I was diagnosed 19 years ago with Type 2. I have tried so long and so many times to lose weight and can't do it-more than a few lbs. which come right back. I hate having people infer that I should just lose weight: That I am responsible for my own diabetes. My A1C runs about 6.5%. I have no complications. Can I continue this way for an indefinite time without complications, or is the clock ticking?
I'm a Type 1 diabetic (for 35 years) and I have to take issue with the statement that we should have 50% of our diet in the form of carbohydrates. I think the Dr. Bernstein approach (low carb diet) is easier to follow and leads to more level and normal blood sugars. I don't think that the low-fat diet is helpful for Type 1's. Between 50 and 80 grams of carbohydrate per day is ample for my and I am quite active.
Recently started taking insulin. I have heard and read the comment that upon starting insulin weight gain is imminent. In the process of acclimating to insulin I have been experiencing "lows". I get extremely hungry.
In response to redian, I totally disagree. I have heard about Dr. Bernstein and his views. You do need carbohydrates in your diet. It is a balancing act. Eating all that fat is going to give you heart problems, clogged arteries, etc. You need a well balanced meal and lifestyle that includes the carbohydrates, and exercise. Yes, I do have diabetes and have A1c's of 5.4 and I eat my required carbohydrates. I read the article and fully agree with what was said.
I hope other diabetics do not fall for that falsehood that they are not to eat carbohydrates. They are not dangerous, our body just needs help regulating them so we get the nutrients and benefits that are required from them. They are necessary.
The author of this article certainly does not know anything about diabetes, particularly when she talks about carbohydrates. Perhaps she never heard of Dr Richard Bernstein either. My experience with the current prediabetic condition really taught me clearly that carbs are evil and you just need to be as far away as possible. On the other hand, I could eat as much fat as possible (eggs, red meats, KFC original recipe with no/little skin) and no significant sugar spike.
Unless you are living with the illness, you could never write a better, useful information about it.
@ Marta - yes, a Type 1 diabetic such as your grandchild will always need to be on insulin. I encourage you to join groups that fundraise to find a cure for Type 1, as that is the best hope for Type 1s in my opinion. Educating yourself and her are key to living a healthy life w/ Type 1. People have much better tools to control their blood sugar than I did when I was diagnosed in 1971.
Try the American Diabetes Association website at www.diabetes.org
I have never read anywhere that immunizations are connected to Type 1. Type 1 is not a preventable disease.
My granddaughter, 3 years old was just diagnosed with diabetes 1. After having a cold, she was sick for more than a week, suddenly she got so sick, then, she ended up at the PICU with almost 700 sugar levels. I am overwhelmed, and trying to find out the cause. If a child was not immunized, would that have anything to do to affect her immune system?
she was told that she'll be needing insulin for the rest of her life. Is that true?
Hi, my comment is about my partner... he is a 6-year survivor of pancreatic cancer (It presented early at a bile duct obstruction) but as a result of the Whipple surgery which amongst other organs half of his pancreas was removed and was diagnosed with diabetes about two years ago. Currently we are trying to control his sugar levels with diet and are doing pretty well. Because of the surgery he has other digestive issues and I am wondering if he would be better off to go on insulin? He wants that to be a last resort, but I'm not sure. Thanks.
As one who has dealt with Type II for nearly 20 years I also dealt with the myths and misinformation about insulin. Several years ago I began an insulin regimen. It's the best thing that ever happened in my efforts over those years. Now, I plan to live out a full life with no serious complications from the disease.
Ha Ha La Dema!!!I totally agree!!!!!I appreciate sites like this for providing easily available info.Nancy and Peggy I applaud you for taking the leap.There are so many people who just don't understand the Diabetes education they have received or people who just are uneducated period.I would love to go into the industry to educate, but I would pull all of my hair out.Thank God for patient people like Nancy and Peggy.I would NEVER have the grace to deal with all of this.I have to stop reading.My blood is boiling already and I can feel my type 1 sugar rise ;p
You need to control your type 2 to stay healthy.Poorly controlled type 2 does not cause you to "get" type 1.Poorly controlled type 2 causes you to have poorly controlled type 2.Sometimes type 2 requires you to take insulin, but you still have type 2.Type one is an autoimmune disease.Type 2 is a metabolic disorder. Contact your local hospital/clinic/county to see if you can get assistance.Many medication manufacturers will help cover costs if you cannot afford them.It may take a lot of phone calls and paperwork, but life-your life-is worth the effort.Good luck.I understand how expensive this stuff can be.
I wish that the healthcare system would call type 1 Diabetes & type 2 Diabetes different names.While they both have similarities, type 1 is an autoimmune disease & type 2 is a metabolic disorder.The next time someone shakes a dirty finger at me while I eat one cookie or the next time someone says to me"You have diabetes?You aren't fat."...I might lose it!!Yes, can someone please get with the program and not lump both diseases together?I don't want to read about type 2!!I want to learn info about the disease I have without sifting through all the stuff aimed at a group that is reducing their diets to something their insulin production can handle.I have been counting carbs & taking insulin for over 20 years now.Being overweight is a predisposing factor for TYPE 2 DIABETES, because your body can't make enough insulin for what you're putting in it!!Lloyd, reducing your carbohydrate intake was what YOUR metabolism needed.180 per day is just a standard set amount.Doctors adjust it based on each case-which includes how YOUR body's metabolism reacts and your activity level.CARBS ARE NOT THE ENEMY!OVEREATING carbs for YOUR body is!My body allows me to eat over the standard 180 & still wear a woman's size 4 despite being completely insulin dependant.Come on people-the way our bodies process our food can be as different as our personalities.The key is to get help from your doc to find how many carbs YOU require, & how much insulin you may or may not need f
My husband was diagnosed with diabetes a little over 2 years ago. I really need to disagree with your carbohydrate statement that says we should be getting 50 percent of our calories from carbohydrates especially if someone has diabetes. You should stay as far away from carbs. as possible. My husband takes one pill so far but is working on making it so he will no longer need it. In the last 2 years he has cut most carbs. out of his diet and has eaten mainly proteins and healthy fats. So far he has lost 45 pounds with doing this (proteins and fats) and the last 20 pounds was with the HCG diet mainly no grains. His numbers are getting really close to normal readings. I think one more month of the HCG diet (20 more pounds off) and he should be getting normal reading all the time.
Every person's food needs are different so this one diet for all is not very realistic and if someone is diabetes there bodies are telling them that they need less carbs. not to just go on meds.
LM: Perhaps you misread the article. The statement "Being overweight is a predisposing factor for developing diabetes" is not the myth. That statement is true. This statement was under the "myth": "I don't know why I got diabetes, I never eat sweets" which is in bold letters.
"Being overweight is a predisposing factor for developing diabetes."
The irony of this statement being on a blog devoted to dispelling myths is breathtaking. Every idiot that reads this crap calls to tell me my underweight child shouldn't caused her own condition.
Way to go, ladies.
I think medical professionals need to rethink and reevaluate their stance on carbohydrates. I have been a T2 for 16 1/2 years. 3 1/2 years ago when I went on a pump, I found that I was able to lower my carbohydrate intake from 150-180 a day down to an average of 80 a day, because my hunger was greatly reduced when I got my glucose under tight control.
As a result, I lost 25 pounds in 8 months and have kept it off for 3 years, and my last 14 A1c's have been between 4.9 and 5.4. I don't have to deal with hypoglycemia either, with a standard deviation of 14.
You don't need all that much carbohydrates, your body gets it's energy from fat and protein also.
Low carbohydrate diets have been found to be just as effective as low fat diets, but safer.
80 grams of carbohydrate a day is not all that hard to do, I fully expect to be able to do it for the rest of my (very healthy) life.
Terri: Keep up the good work. Having pre-diabetes means that you are at risk for diabetes. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle may delay the progression towards developing type 2 diabetes but we cannot say that you will never develop the disease.
Thank you Nancy. Your blog is right on. Keep up the good work.
(type 1 diabetic 34 years and feeling good)
I have just been diagnosed with pre diabetes and I am thin, eat well, do yoga everyday. I just wondered if it goes away or if I will eventually get diabetes?
my doctor is telling me that i can come off the metamorphine pills if i eat right and exercise every day. Is this possible? i have type 2 diabetes.
If losing weight can improve insulin, why do thin people have diabetes? Overweight is bad but reducing from healthy weight is also bad. I wish this site would give exercises/yogas that improve the health of pancreas. Diabetes is increasing enormously in the world,and the diabetes drug manufacturers are laughing all the way to the bank.
Please distinguish between Type 1 and Type 2 next time you write about diabetes.
Jeffery, could you have hereditary anemia (also called thalassemia)? You can not improve your blood count with this condition. In fact, you can do damage by ingesting iron pills. Ask your doctor if this is a possibility.
my wife has 2 diabetes she makes her own cinnamon
capsules half teaspoon !! useing india made ?? takes three capsules a day!! she goe's down from 10 to 6.1
and told her friends!! all have been successful , some spread on food !! she buys [masterfoods cinnamon ground] her life much happier ??
I agree that diabetes is a complex disease with many facets and insulin is not a perfect therapy. As an educator my job is to simplify learning so all can understand. Thank you, Nancy
Sondra, there is no such thing as a diabetic diet and actually there are no foods you can't eat, but some are best avoided. I think this advise applies to all of us regardless if we have diabetes or not. I think the deal with the evening eating has more to do with not eating enough foods at breakfast and lunch, so that by the time evening comes around we get so over hungry that our stomach becomes a bottomless pit and impossible to satisfy.
I have been a type 2 diabetic since 2002 and I have heard a couple of things that I am not sure if they are facts or myths. I was hoping maybe someone out there could help me figure them out.
1.) If I eat any type of food from a small snack to a full meal after 6 pm will it prevent me from losing weight?
2.) Are there any foods that should be completely off-limits to diabetics?
Thank you for this site and hopefully finding me some answers.
you ladies are both members of the medical profession ... and it is obvious that neither of you actually live with the illness...
of course both of you endorse all western notions and attitude towards the treatment of diabetes..
your oversimplifications of the treatment are not all encompassing and i am surprised that you are so vocal
diabetes is an auto immune illness ... and not all about sugar.
insulin is not all that 'simple' as you make it out to be.. overdoses of insulin can cause coma.
Nancy, your comments are gross oversimplifications of a complex subject and are entirely not helpful.
Re: Myth # 1, I have borderline or a touch of diabetes. Things like that are probably said by people who are told they are Pre-diabetic.
Thank you for posting these .... I have Type I Diabetes (since I was a teen), and fight off the urge to be irritated with people who JUST DON'T KNOW. I try to educate those that are around me often, but it's just FRUSTRATING when so many people are SOOO misinformed!!!
I read somewhere that doctors are removing a part of the intestine and by doing that the cause of the patients' diabetes.
Has anyone any information on that? My wife has diabetes 2.?
Due to lack of insurance, I have been unable to treat my diabetes Type 2. How long before I may become Type 1? the so called Free clinics have appts available but they are 2 months out...are there other resources available?
If insulin is one of the safest medications around for Diabetes, why isn't it prescribed over other medications that have side effects?
Jeffery, a 0.3 uL to 1.5 uL drop of blood (size of a pin head) that you use for testing your blood glucose should not make a dent in your hemoglobin or iron stores.
I am a diabetic and I have Iron deficiency anemia according to my doctor. She bases this on the blood test results that show my hemoglobin is at 13.0 and not 14.0 or above and that I am loosing blood somewhere. I believe that all of this fingerstick glucose testing (3 times a day every day) is part of the problem. She says that I am loosing blood through my colon even though my immunochemical occult blood test are negitive for blood. Can you help me with a difinitive cause for my Iron deficiency? I do not want to consent to a Colonoscopy which she insists that I have.
Got two thoughts . I am extremely insulin resistant. Any amount over 50 grams of digestible carbohydrates per day elevates my blood sugar, for up to 6 hours, before medication finally takes over and brings it down. How can insulin injections bring down blood sugar in an insulin resistant diabetic? Looks like it would cause extreme craving for more carbohydrates . Cynthia is right every diabetic reacts different. I know for a fact ( based on family history) that people on insulin rapidly become resistant to that insulin, and wind up in the hospital often, for a new "formula" of insulin.
My personal favorite is the one where the uneducated person is trying to tell me that MY diabetes is just like "so and so's" diabetes. NOTHING CAN BE FURTHER FROM THE TRUTH!! What works for one DOES NOT NECESSARILY work for all!
Michelle, a random blood sugar greater than 200 mg/dl (11.1 mmol) is indicative of diabetes. We recommend following up with your provider.
My girlfriend of three years has been diabetic since she was eleven and i still know little to nothing about it she doesnt have insurance and does anyone have any numbers or tips to help me?
if you don't have diabetes and eat a lot of sweets will you get a higher than normal glucose reading right after you eat.
The biggest and most damaging myth is that diabetes is a "fat person's disease;" this particular misunderstanding creates a sentiment that diabetics deserve their diagnosis because of weight/unhealthy food issues. I am a type 2 diabetic and was not overweight, nor did I just sit around and eat junk before or after diagnosis. I am not am not an "exception to a rule" either. Consider this: If being overweight is the rule then why isn't every overweight person on the planet diabetic? Because it is simply untrue.
I read the blog about the woman whos Renal failure was from the insulin intake that she had done for many years? I hear so many things.....does anyone know the "Real Facts" by cases of the long term effects of taking insulin...I take 65 I.U. of 70/30... 2x daily and have a hard time regulating...only way I can, is eat nothing...everything , even foods on LGI. DR. mentioned I should be on one that regulates all day lond, but can't afford..it is around 85.00 a bottle.
Prediabetes is a recognized medical condition. It did indeed used to be called borderline diabetes, but the name was changed to reflect new knowledge. So, it isn't correct that you either have it or not. A person can have mild type 2 diabetes, controlable by diet, and another that needs insulin. So not all cases of diabetes are alike!!!
I don't agree with your statements about insulin in regard to type II diabetes. New research is being conducted that suggests an over excretion of insulin may be the root cause of obesity (rather than obesity being the cause of insulin resistance). Studies have shown that children with elevated fasting insulin levels have a very high likelihood of becoming obese as they mature. "Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease" states that "Glucose is transported across the cell membranes of adipocytes (fat cells), and its rate of transport can be speeded up by 20- to 30-fold within 2 or 3 minutes by addition of insulin". It wasn't that long ago that insulin injections were used to fatten up "chronically under weight individuals" and at one time was prescribed as a cure for anorexia.
Research has also shown a link between high insulin levels and CHD. So to make a claim that insulin "
is probably one of the safest medications around" is a little off the mark.
I disagree with your recommendation for 50% carbs in your daily diet. Yes carbs make everyone's bgl raise; however, some of us are super sensitive. For example, one serving of oatmeal will spike me 190 points over my premeal level. Breads, even your so called healthy whole grain/wheat bread will spike me 90 points with just one piece. I eat about 20% carbs, 30% protein and 50% fats (I am not afraid of butter and animal fats but generally try to use the "heart healthy" fats as much as possible). I have a ton of energy, I don't feel hungry and the weight melts off me. I am not the only diabetic who goes with a low carb diet and the ones I know have had fantastic results. I am able to consistently keep my bgl's below 130 2hPP and between 80 and 90 most of the rest of the day. If I ate more carbs, I could never manage my numbers like that! I think the myth is the recommendation to eat 50% carbs a day or you won't have energy!
I'm am type 2 diatbetic on 20 insulin.
I know I need to watch carbs and sugar but does it mean I need to never eat sugar? Dr. just said to eat a healthy diet? I forgot to be specific when I asked......
my dr just told me that I have diabetes but did not go into a lot of detail- my blood sugar came back at 6.6 after my blood test- can someone help me understand this- do i have diabetes? thanks
My mum has diabetes type 2, and is just recovering from Acute Renal Failure, they are more than sure it was caused by simvastatin 80mg which she had been on for a number of years. Is it possible I will inherit diabetes from here ? Also I done a random reading on myself and it read 11.8 ? I collapsed yesterday and have just recently had bloods done, just waiting on results. I dont eat a normal diet, I eat one bowl of dry cereal, have about 4 milky coffees each day and drink Fresh Orange all the time. My only fear is I dont want to become too ill to take proper care of my mum. She has been through a lot over the years. Any answers would be so appreciated. I feel so alone and scared.
I HAVE TYPE 2 DIABETES NOW,BUT NEVER DID HAVE IT BE FOR I QUIT SMOKING.ABOUT THREE YEARS AGO I HAD AN OPERATION TO REMOVE MY PROSTATE AND I QUIT SMOKING AT THE SAME TIME.THEN I DEVELOPED DIABETES.CAN YOU GIVE ME A CLUE AS TO WHY THIS HAPPENED?this same thing happened to my brother after he guit smoking.none of the rest of my family has diabetes My question is has a study been run on people that has quit smoking to see what happenes to a body after someone quits smoking.i smoked for 60 years,i'm sure that something happenes to the body with this sudden change of not getting this nicotine.can this cause your blood sugar to go up?
Is Type 2 Diabetes genetic. Have researchers found the gene that confirms you will get Type 2 Diabetes?
What about Ice tea (black) w/ no sweetners of any kind?
how does agent orange cause diabetes I have read type 1 can be caused by a toxin theva only admits to type 2
Would there be any difficulties getting pregnant if iam diabetic
Can one have kids when they are diabetic?
David: Generally, if you have good blood glucose control you should be able to have children. It is especially important for women to have good control before and during pregnancy to minimize complications to baby and mother.
Am diabetes can i still have children
Art, the opposite is true about insulin. Insulin helps control your blood glucose and good blood glucose control helps prevent diabetes complications.
Clairine, generally Metformin is not recommended for advanced degrees of congestive heart failure.
I can't think of any myth questions, but I have just been diagnosed with diabetes. The nurse called and said the doctor wanted me to start taking Metformin. I used the computer and read up on Metformin and Congestive Heart Failure popped up. I also have the fibilization problem. I am worried about taking Metformin
i recently got on insulin. Everyone tells me insulin makes you lose your vision faster. What are the side effects if any?
Have been fortunate enought to control my diabetes through eating raw and vegan, as well as exercise. Got some great tips from this MayoClinic site, as well as some others such as Raw-Food-Repair.com
I am a Beekeeper in N. Texas and have a large customer base for my Raw Honey to help keep their allergies under control. A number of them are Diabetics, and I always tell them to get the use of the honey approved by their doctor. But it seems most doctors and dietitians do not have a clue as how to answer. I contacted American Diabetes Asso. and they said to check with the doctors or dietitions.
I want to be a responsible Beekeeper and help my customers. How can I get some valid answers?
Thanks so much.
I am a Beekeeper in N. Texas and have a large customer base for my Raw Honey to help keep their allergies under control. A number of them are Diabetics, and I always tell them to get the use of the honey approved by their doctor. But it seems most doctors and dietitians do not have a clue as how to answer. I contacted American Diabetes Asso. and they said to check with the doctors or dietitions.
I want to be a responsible Beekeeper and help my customers. How can I get some valid answers?
Thanks so much. firstname.lastname@example.com
"no such thing as a touch of diabetes, you either have it or you don't". I've heard this ridiculous comment many times. This says that a person with a regular 126 glucose reading is in equivalent situation to a person with a regular 300 reading. Would you say that a person with minor facial skin cancer had an equivalent situation to a person about to die with severe lung cancer?
Monica, fat cells are notorious for being insulin resistant. Unfortunately, fat cells never go away, but with weight loss the fat cells shrink and absorb the insulin better or are less insulin resistant and also, insulin requirements go down.
Does the fact that being fat is a greater risk for diabetes than eating "sweets", means that fat cells are more insulin resistant than lean cells?
To the person that asked if it is possible to have neuropathy leg pain etc. before a diabetes type 2 diagnosis. In my experience, yes it is. My legs hurt for two years before I was finally diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (it runs in both sides of my family). I went to orthopedic doctors etc. to no avail. Make them do a blood test to look for this. But sometimes it doesn't show up for a while.
Also, if I hear one more person say that they feel gaining weight kicked the diabetes in I am going to go nuts. Yes, that certainly does not help the situation. But if you get the diabetes gene, you get it. I know people that are very thin but they have type 2 diabetes. In my case, it runs in both sides of my family. Also, I had a high stress job for many years and that didn't help the situation. Losing weight, and adjusting my medication, etc. has certainly helped my situation. And I feel wonderful now but it took awhile. Your body changes and sometimes your medication needs adjusted or you need new medication.
Also, until recently, I had no idea that uncontrolled glucose could trigger depression. An ob/gyn doctor had me on depression medication which didn't help much. But when I made an effort to write down everything I put in my mouth and get my medications adjusted etc. it made a world of difference. I was diagnosed when I was 45 and will be 60 in a couple of weeks. I learned much of this by trial and error. This website has helped immensely. Thanks and keep up the good work.
My husband has diabetes and does not want to take insulin. He has had diabetes for ove a year and he is skin and bones. He works and then sleeps until he goes to work again. Is he in great danger?
I've been a diabetic for almost 44 years now. I was diagnosed when I was 9. Hurray for all of the myths - - - that's exactly true. After all of this time, and two children later, I'm having kidney issues. Please check your blood pressure along with your glucose levels. It will help in the long run!
The myths are great! My husband has been told he "doesn't look like a diabetic" whatever that is and that because he's on insulin he's a "bad" diabetic when really he's on it because it's what works for him. Love it most when people tell him he "can't" eat this or that because of his diabetes. They don't understand when we say he can eat anything in the proper portions. Doing that and making smarter food choices (avoiding fried food etc.) had his enodcrinologist tell him he's healthier today than he was 2 years ago!!! Best news we could get! Kidneys are great, A1C bang on, and waist size means a whole new wardrobe for him!
I was diagnosed by accident, short version of a long story I was infected with cellulitous from a dog bite, while in hospital was told I was diabetic. Since that time it ha s gone down hill that was sep 08 . within 3 months started having problems with feet. I was started at 300mg gabapentin 3 x's a day was up to 900 mg 3x's a day with little improvement. I changed podiatrists. I was switched to Lyrica 150 mg 3x's a day and for the first time saw improvement so much so I was able tog o back to work. I worked for about 2 months and saw pain increase, as well as swelling in both feet right more than left at peak I couldn't put on my shoes. it is now end of Jan 2010 was diagnosed with arthrothropy the pain is incredible feet and legs still swollen although they have reduced somewhat. I am on a steroid therapy that has destroyed my daily sugar numbers. I am scared, I hurt , and I AM TRIED OF HURTING. for the record I did not gain weight tll after the diabetes diagbosis my walking around weight was 195-205 according to diabetic standards oprtimum weight foor my size is 185. post diagnosis I got as high as 250 and am currently around 230 .. What is next? I have done a lot of reading about this arthrothpy and the name Charcot's keeps popping up how do I avoid all of the next round that seems to be coming?
can you please, advise me: I am on metformin
2000 a day, my morning sugar is still 170-180, my a1c 6.9 (after many years of being below 6.5) what can I do?
I heard that daily doses of vinegar can help with type 2 diabetes,is this true???
My brother tells me that going in a hot tub with diabetes will hurt me, and diabetics should not go in them, but i always feel better and have better circulation in my feet afterwards. What is the truth about diabetics and hot tubs?
I have not been diagnosed with diabetes but I became obsessed with taking my blood sugar levels recently because I was always feeling shaky and weak. I eat every 6 hours or I feel like I am going to pass out but I am confused becasue I eat the same exact foods every day as I struggle with anorexia. Some times my blood sugar is in the 80's but recently it has been over 110 every time I check it, even after not eating a thing for more than 7 hours. I then have to find something to eat without carbs or sugar and mostly eat egg whites. I feel that my already narrow box of eating is getting even smaller because of my fear of getting diabetes. I realize that going out and buying a blood testing kit when you don't have diabetes is weird but I was borderline hypoglcemic 2 years back when I had the glucose test done with drinking the liguid so why is it so high now with eating the same foods every day? Is there another test to see what is going on or give me better knowledge that I am okay?
thank you!!
weight gain caused type 2 diabetes & i lost the weight (pre-diabetic weigt now.) : i still have type 2 diabetes! Is this my "life long punishment" for gaining some weight for a few years? I have kept the weight off and watch what i eat? Or was i predetermined to get diabetes since my normal weight father had type 1 diabetes??
It's come to my attention that the preservatives used in insulin cause multiple types of cancer. Over the past 22 years (out of the 23 I've been living[with juvenile diabetes]) I've been threatened and scared by my doctors with horrific descriptions of complications I may face later on in life, but not once was cancer ever mentioned. This information has caused me great grief and anxiety as of late and if it's true why haven't any of my endo.'s ever discussed this with me or my family? Also what can I do (other than keep good control of my blood glucose levels and so on) to reduce my chances of getting any cancer created/caused by my insulin?
Mitchy: My two sons were diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes while in the military. For one, it resulted in a career change that he acquired in the military, and my youngest is waiting to see what the medical review board will say as far as keeping him in. He has tight control of his blood sugar and his A1c is 5.6% which will factor in on the board's decision. Good control is important. Your son can ask what this particular employer's concerns are. Peggy
Ron, Peggy and Nancy read all the comments, but can't respond to everything. Thanks for your interest.
Your blog itself is very good and the comments raise interest questions--question I'd like to hear answers to. Your blog would be so much more helpful if you would answer the questions. If you don't know the answers, just say so. That would be less frustrating to your readers than your silence.
Thanks for listening. (I do hope you read your comments.)
I have type II diabetes which for the most part is uncontrolled. I find the doctors blame me for not losing weight and not exercising regularly. I quit smoking 13 years ago and gained 40 pounds. I went on insulin 4 years ago and gained another 40 pounds. Prior to these two incidents I did not have a weight problem. Attempts to lose the weight have failed. Metformin tore my stomach apart. I go between being compliant for a long period of time to being non-compliant (past 4 months). Any suggestions? I'm tired of being blamed.
My step-son is diabetic, Type 1. He was diagnosed when he was about 14 years old and now he is 19. He has a pump and appears to be doing well. My question is.....Are there any jobs that we shouldn't expect him to be able to do? Like he can't go into military; one of his dreams of doing because he is diabetic. Some of his friends are going to the riverboats to make fast money. My son applied and now there seems to be a problem with him being diabetic. Why?
I have found the best way of coping with Diabetes is just to treat it like its a any other complaint you might have.Just take your insulin and blood sugar readings and live your life normally.
I've been advised to be on a low fiber diet due to bowel obstruction from chemo but I count on a high fiber diet to keep my diabetes in check - how can I balance this? Any suggestions?
Have you heard of anyone developing neuropathy symptoms before they were diagnosed with diabetes II. I have been told that it was impossible. I have no other causes indicated that could have been the source.
Do you know if the glycemic index used to diagnose diabetes II has changed over the last 20 years? Other indices have been refined and reduced and what was OK several years ago is not acceptable today.
Do you have any data that you can refer me to? I have a pending claim with the VA to contest their denial of my full damages due to my exposure to Agent Orange in the late 60's.
Thank you.
I am 91 years young have been onType 2 medication for over 8 years. Have had great luck in controlling my blood sugar. It has always been around 105 to 130. I had my flu shots 5 weeks ago and since that time my blood sugar has been 150 to 195 every morning. Could the flu shots have caused this rise in sugar. I have not changed my food of excercise program at alll.
Linda, any type of stress can raise your blood glucose. If it is long term stress and a pattern of high blood glucoses above target range, see your provider about adjusting your diabetes medication to get your blood glucoses back in target. Better yet, see a diabetes educator to learn dose adjustment of your insulin program for self management.
Becky, some times people will have their highest readings of the day with a morning fasting reading and this can be hormonally related. If your A1c is in a good range, I don't think you are ready for insulin, but discuss this with you primary doctor. An adjustment or additional medication may be needed in the evening if the fastings are running above 140 mg/dl or 7.7 mmol/L consistently. Nancy
I am Type 2 and was prescribed 1000 mg. in the am and pm. I have been taking it for about 2 years. My fasting blood glucose is never lower than on the average in the 140's and 150's. It does come down at times during the day. I follow a low glycemic diet and exercise 50 mins. 4-5 times a day. My BMI is 26. Do you think I need insulin?
I am not getting any control with any meds,,Januvia,short acting insulin,metfoemin,Lantis solo star,Nova log pen..I am Type 2 amd excersice 1 hr p day swimming. I weigh 120 and am 5'6 .nevrt had any weight problem...However, I am at the highest stress level I have ever beeen in my life! Can this stess my insulin intake and how much?
I refuse insulin if I am in the hospital. These jokers want blood suger at or below 100, sending underlings around to constantly to poke your fingers. I watched as they damn near killed the guy in the bed next to me by giving him too much insulin. I told the doctor treating him that he had given me my last shot of it. He hit the roof and had me moved to another room.
Insulin will kill faster than high blood sugar!!
I think it's great that your intent is to educate the public about diabetes and common myths regarding the disease. However, as the mother of a child diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 5, I feel compelled to point out that your blog does not clearly distinguish between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes...two very different conditions. It's incredibly frustrating to have well-meaning but misinformed people give unsolicited advice about my child's disease based on their experience with a relative who developed Type 2 as an obese adult! So, please help out those of us who struggle with Type 1 on a daily basis and educate your readers about the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. By the way, my son's doing fabulously...he's on the Medtronic pump with a CGM and his latest A1c was 6.7! :)
Suzanne, your diabetes story is not unusual. If diet and exericise are unable to control your blood sugars, generally, the first drug of choice for most type 2 diabetics is Metformin (if the kidneys are functioning normally). Metformin does seem to decrease peoples appetites a bit and helps lower cholesterol levels. It's the poor blood glucose control that causes damage to the body.
i am new to diabetes. i also have a unique story. i was gestational with my pregnancies and within range after. however i had major surgery and of course was tested prior to each surgery. after my second surgery i felt a very slow recovery. it ended up one month after that surgery i had a sugar level of 478! it took a while but with metformin i am in normal ranges again. i would like to look into what drives my diabetes and how to treat it more naturally. is there a gold standard place for this? i am affraid of ending with someone not really equiped to advise me. i feel years of metformin could be bad. is there a more natural approach?
Type I is both a genetic and an autoimmue disease. Type 1 diabetes is a complex genetic disorder. It occurs more frequently in families who have relatives with type 1 and other autoimmune conditions. A stressor (virus) can trigger an autoimmune response, setting off antibody responses to beta cells (cells in the pancreas that make insulin.
Call your health care provider about the testing for the H1N1 flu. Nancy
Diana, diabetes can cause damage to nerves in your body and this is called neuropathy. Gastroparesis means paralysis of the stomach. Normal digestion cannot occur when this condition is present; nausea, vomiting, pain, and fullness after eating are symptoms of gastroparesis. There are a number of medications that people are not advised to take with renal and hepatic impairment, ask your primary care provider for a specific list. Nancy
Abbey, thanks for sharing. It sounds like you have a pretty good head on your shoulders.
Hi nancy. Can a patient's headache and abdominal pain be related to neuropathy? Exactly why do they have pain? Is it a cramping, ischemic, or? etiology? If patient with some renal/hepatic impairment, what kind of meds can safely be tried? Thank you so much!!
My 12 year old daughter was diagnosed with type 1 in April. Can you clarify what the myths are about what causes type 1? Is there more evidence to support the genetic component or the virus theory?
Today, she came down with a low grade fever that is being managed with Advil, a sore throat, and body aches. I realize she is considered "high risk" for H1N1 but should I still treat this as any flu and just monitor the symptoms or should I have her tested? Thanks for providing this resource.
hi, im 13 and i have type 1 diabetes, It's not that big a deal, I've had it for about 3 years now and i still get shots, i will probably get a pump this summer. most of my friends think it is cool. i hardly ever think about my diabetes, i have a pretty normal life. i didn't even know there were myths about diabetes, thats very interesting, i'll be sure not to tell any myths to anyone. thanks for the info!
Go to the American Diabetes Association online. That is a great place to start. It has loads of information for your mom, including blood sugar levels. Also, set up an appointment with an Endorinologist. This is a doctor who specializes in diabetes and other disorders of the endocrine glands. Please try not to worry. I know it can be scary, but with diet and exercise, and medication, your mom will be ok. Best of luck to you.
Good day to you,
I have been searching on the net to find what is a normal blood reading for a diabetic after a meal. My mom's labwork came back stating she's a diabetic. so I brought my mom a kit to test her blood sugar levels but all it states is level for people without high blood sugar.. ok I really dont understand I have been searching for the past three hours and I have found nothing to help me help my mom. she is actually testing herself three times a day but we are not sure what are the levels suppose to be...I really don't mean to sound like an idot but it is important that I understands my mom's health she is very important to me...The best part we do not know if she is type I or type II. If you could help me I would really appreciate all the help I can get.
I gratefully thank you for your time.
Hi Matt, I discussed your response with one of the endocrinologist at the Mayo Clinic and we think all the points you raise need extensive discussion. However, we differ significantly in our assessment of the safety and efficacy of insulin treatment. Respectfully, Nancy
I have to disagree with one of your points in concept Nancy. Insulin can cause complications. Type II Diabetics, unless their beta-cells (insulin producers in the pancreas) have failed, tend to have TOO MUCH insulin and are insulin resistant. In which case, they will be better off utilizing the insulin they already have with Metformin as indicated my the American Heart Association. Sulfonyureas and injectable insulin analogs (Byetta and such not included) only increase the insulin levels in the patients blood stream and contribute to the oxidation cycle promoting further insulin resistance. Check the literature. Type II'ers do in some cases need insulin to come into initial control from severe hyperglycemia, or if their pancreas fails, but the fact of the matter is that most type II diabetics will suffer further complications from the oxidative processes of excess insulin (neuropathy, atheroschlerosis, elevated cholesterol). Look at the long-term outcomes of insulin use vs. an oral sensitizer like Metformin. My advice: Choose an endo who is a fellow of the American College of Endocrinologists and promotes as little insulin use as possible and refuses to use sulfonyureas.
I really like a great deal of what you've posted. Keep up the good work!
If insulin use is not bad then why won't a Long Term Insurance Company not even discuss covering me unless I am off it for a year. I'm not taking meds which they seem to feel meds are ok.
A lady from the carpenters came by the other night to try and sell us life insurance. She said that our 5 year old son does not qualify for life insurance because he's diabetic. Has anyone hear of this? Do you have life insurance?
Corn is considered to be high in phosphorus
why is popcorn bad for someone who has diabetes and kidney failure? my friend is on a low phosphorus diet.
The real issue on carbohydrates is simple vs. complex carbs! Whole grain carbs are complex and convert to glucose more slowly than simple carbs -- giving our systems time to utilize our own natural insulin which type 2 diabetics still produce. This tells us that we should avoid refined carbohydrates like the plague. I am able to control my blood sugar now for more than ten years without any medication what-so-ever. This I do by mainly watching my diet and keeping my weight at high school level -- approx 175 lbs. I do not follow any extra-ordinary exercise program either!
Walt, I found this in "Mayo Clinic on Managing Diabetes" 2nd edition. In type 2 diabetes the risk of getting diabetes from a mother or and father with type 2 diabetes is the same; at 5-20%. Mom's off the hook. Nancy
Hi Kevin, that's OK. I don't function too well in the morning before having my coffee either. Nancy
Rhonda - I'm sorry to hear you had an awful experience, people are very vulnerable when they enter the hospital and you should have a compassionate nurse at your side to advocate for you. My point -which may have not been clear - was that there are always going to be professionals (in any field) that are selfish, mean, incompetent, etcetera. Unfortunately, it is part of life and to be effective you need to be gracious and sometimes forgiving; not to say that one should withstand certain behavior -like your nurse's behavior - but there is a way to go about these things to be effective and get your point across. You obviously were in no condition to defend yourself and I'm not faulting you for that. Best to you Rhonda
I just want to clarify to Sheila, "yes, the misinformation of Diabetes on all levels does make me quite angry." However, this situation happened in an ICU by an RN who woke me up and chewed me out while she was taking my vitals at 03:00. At the time, being on antinausea meds I was really only able to reply,"I use an insulin pump." Today, some three years later I still react in kind to the RN in that ICU, who came across as angry and therefore, ineffective. I think I can let it go now. Thank you, Sheila for that wonderful last sentence, "When you come off as angry you end up being ineffective."
Jeanne, I'm wondering if you meant to say the medical staff's comfort level. No other healthcare worker can order medications except the doctor to treat diabetes (this is not an insult, just to let others know this information). When a patient enters the hospital they have to manage their own pump with the assistance of an endocrinologist. RN's are not educated on insulin pump use and it would be difficult to remember such education if you don't get a patient on an insulin pump regularly. We all remember how it took us time to get used to the pump and now we use it every day. We are now experts at the controls and know our own body's responses. One additional comment - our health means the world to us and just as any job, there are good, knowledgeable workers (or RN's, attorneys, doctors - the list goes on and on) and there are bad ones. Education is vitally important especially when you're dealing with someone's life and it's hard to motivate someone to do their job well if they don't feel like it. Life is unfair - it's always been that way and will always be. This is part of the world you were born into. We are very fortunate to be in the United States and not some third world country where the word diabetes hasn't even been heard by many. Americans tend to have this attitude that they deserve this and that - we need to appreciate rather than have this attitude of entitlement. Not saying that we can't still improve things but let's stay realistic.
My husband has type 1 and has just gone on a pump. He loves it! I am an R.N. and am appalled by the misconceptions of healthcare workers. A patient on an insulin pump was always so foreign until now. A patient with diabetes has almost always been over or under treated in the hospital setting due to a lack of comfort level by the staff. This is so very unfortunate. There needs to be so much more education out there - not just for patients, families and healthcare workers but for the public in general. Where to start......???
Something I was told by doctors is that type 1 diabetes is not hereditary ( and I've heard other times it is). I work with a nurse who is a twin and he and his brother were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes within 6 months of one another.
Also - to address Rhonda, I am a nurse in a hospital and I have run into many situations where doctors other than endocrinologists do not address the diabetes issue correctly always. However, it may be your approach that puts others ill at ease - you come across as very angry and you can make others respond in kind. Perhaps you were as pleasant as anyone could be and that's good, that's the way to handle these types of situations. Not everyone knows everything and even though it can be appalling at times it's important to handle yourself with grace as well as with authority. When you come off as angry you end up being ineffective.
The one about carbohydrates makes me insane. I get told all the time by ignoramuses that I "shouldn't eat carbohydrates" at all, because I'm diabetic. Why is it that if less is good people assume none is best? And if more is good, then consuming vats must be better. The right amount is the right amount!
Here is a myth I experienced in an ICU after my insulin pump mis-delivered insulin during the night and I awoke on the verge of DKA one morning.
Myth #1: Healthcare workers (RN's & doctors) outside the scope of Endocrinology don't have a clear grasp of the 3 HOUR WINDOW it takes for insulin pumpers (pumps use short acting insulin only) and the time it takes Diabetics using insulin injection therapy (long acting and short acting insulins) to reach the state of DKA.
I find it frustrating to be berated by hospital staff when it is they who do not have a clear grasp of 1) the different types of insulin therapy 2) the different types of insulins (long, medium and fast acting) 3)unwilling to accept simple informative information on this subject.
It is unfortunate that Diabetes in general is very misunderstood even by the healthcare workers. I really isn't just as easy as watch your diet, check your blood sugar, take your insulin and assume that nothing bad will happen. Nobody can control everything all of the time, every day of the week all the days of the year forever; not the Diabetics or the Diabetes Educators or hospital staff. Thank you for listening
The half-truth that all Type II are overweight and they need to lose weight. 2 1/2 years ago I was diagnosed with Type II diabetes. I'm 4' 9in and weigh 105 pds. High-blood pressure runs in my family so a number of years before I was diagnosed I got rid of processed foods, was eating lots of fruit, veggies, fiber and was exercising regularly. My high glucose levels were caught when I did a blood test for a health program my job was offering. My Dr and I were not actively monitoring for diabetes outside of yearly physicals because it doesn't run in my family. I'm living proof that not all Type II are overweight and/or have unhealthily eating habits.
I'm Type II (364 / 13.6 A1C) disagnosed two months ago...although suspected for some time. A complete change in diet (lots of small meals and good ones from all of the magazines with recipes - strongly suggest this) along with oral meds are hopefully assisting. I have more blood taken this afternoon to test.
Want to warn all about the potential for neuropothy (which I have in my foot and lower leg) from NOT catching this and seeing a doctor about it. I hope that additional feeling returns as on meds for this as well as supplements. Have to say the diabetic socks are great as well. All to address what I deal with...but not fix it.
Five years between doctor visists and look where I stand now because of this.
A lesson for anyone....?
I was diagnosed with Type II five years ago. I took off 60 lbs and got my A1c down to 5.8 and managed to control my blood glucose levels with diet, exercise, and medication. Then even though I only had 10-20 carbs and 300-500 cals/meal my blood glucose levels skyrocketed. My pancreas failed. I ASKED to be put on insulin. Since then I have managed to stay in tight control; kept the weight off; exercise regularly; and last A1C reading ws 5.7. I resisted going on insulin but am now glad I did!!
I wish that people would understand that type II is not a given if family members have it. Also, the general population needs to be educated to have an A1c every year. If caught early, a slightly elevated blood sugar can be brought back down to normal with diet modifications and exercise and not be a "life sentence." One last thing, my daughter developed type I at 12 years of age. So many people blamed her. I have spent years educating those around me about the truth of type I, fighting discrimination at school, and counseling friends and family with type II about better control. Complications can be avoided if the persons affected with this prevalent disease would put in some real effort to changing their lifestyles. Meds are not the only answer! A truly healthy lifestyle is the answer.
I read an AP story today that talked about Type 2 diabetes related to over-weight people. I've been Type 2 for five years. I was a competitive runner, in good health but diabetes runs through my family history. Weight may be a factor but it's only a factor.
Oh, I just read the first part where it says you'll post the others next week. I should never post before my first coffee! by the way, I'm a type 1 with significant resistance as well (type 2). I hear that the difference between the types is kind of blurry and there is rather a range going from extreme insulin resistance to complete insulin dependence. I find that that carb restriction, not elimination, helps control. Especially when I'm particularly resistant to insulin and have to inject a lot.
Where are the other 6 of 10? I only saw 4.
When my doctor said I was diabetic, I was shocked! But, as my mother and both grandmothers had it, I shouldn't have been. However, it was the best thing that happened to be, she sent me to diabetic classes and I lost 30 lbs. and began a serious exercise program - luckily for me, it was early in the disease.
So far, watching what I eat, exercising and testing my blood every day is working. You can't "cheat" on your food when you see your readings everyday.
Please be careful to discriminate between Type I and Type II diabetes:
Type I is an auto-immune disease in which the pancreas ceases it's production of the hormone insulin. It is not tied to heredity.
Type II is a lifestyle/hereditary imbalance in the intake and output of calories, making the insulin produced insufficient to cover the glucose present in the bloodstream. Type II sufferers should reduce the number of calories in their daily diet, exercise sufficiently to metabolize those calories, and avoid high fat, processed foods and eat foods high in fiber, (primarily fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains) and no bottled beverages....diet or not!
The biggest diabetes myth is that Type II diabetes cannot be controlled with SELF control !!!!
My 18 year old son is a Type I diabetic and is in excellent control. Type II diabetes is epidemic on my mother's side of the family, but at 54 years, I am at 5'5" tall, 120 pounds, walk to and from work (2 miles) each day and practice Bikram Yoga 3X a week and have a great A1C, blood cholesterol, and blood pressure. I can't tell you how important it is to give up fast and processed food; the stuff is killing us. Buy whole foods only and restrict meat. Type II diabetes is NOT a life sentence !
a diabetes myth I've grown up with is if your mother has diabetes you are more likely to get it than if your father has it. On my fathers side, his father was married twice. The first family did not have diabetes; the family with the second wife all had diabetes (all eight children). Is this a myth or not?
So far, with diet and exercise, I've managed to take off 20 lbs and get off glyburide. I'm still not perfectly controlled and need to lose at least 10 lbs more to be where my doctor and I want me to be. I found it almost impossible to lose weight while taking the meds, but once off the meds, it came off quickly. I walk at least a mile 5 days an week, water aerobics 2 days and chair aerobics 2 days. I'm 75 and take meds for blood pressure (still not well controlled) and cholesterol (under good control). Why would going off glyburide make it easier for me to lose weight? My goal this year is to get off as much medication as possible. Control all these factors that affect diabetes before you have to take medication; it gets a lot tougher after that.
-cyn You have brought up a good point! I agree.
FL, Those noninvasive infared light blood glucose monitors sure sound great. I've done a little research on this and it appears that these monitors are still in the research development stage. No such device has been approved for marketing by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Sorry
As a physician working in Europe, I can attest to the fact that these first five myths span continents. I have seen patients in the past week who have told me at least one of these myths! Great to see that the Mayo Clinic is educating the world!
Have had Type 2 for abt 2 1/2 yrs now and am under good control. Also hate the fat and lazy epithet. I was fat al right...and stressed...from being a workaholic. Now that I have retired I have lost heaps of weight but am still overweight despite lots of healthy eating and going to the gym 3x week, pool some other days, and walking. Also found that 'everybody' on my Dad's side eventually ended up with Type 2 and my mother has it too.
I wish you would include as one of the myths: only fat and lazy people get diabetes. Everyone thinks that...and immediately assumes you have an unhealthy lifestyle if you develop diabetes. How about 3 generations before you - doesn't that affect the chances you'll get it?
Where can I secure an infrared light monitor to measure
blood sugar, like the one you mentioned in The Essential Diabetes Book (chapter 2, page 36)?
Thank you
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Results 1 to 10 of 10
Thread: Incendiary cannon arrows
September 7th, 2012, 02:33 PM #1
Incendiary cannon arrows
Mike Loades, author of the excellent Swords and Swordsmen and all round historical Good Chap (tm), shared this awesome picture on Facebook today.
If you don't do FB, the thing looks to be about four feet long and the commentary reads:
"Mary Rose Museum
Alex Hildred, Curator of Ordnance at the Mary Rose, examines an incendiary arrow, one of the more unusual weapons found on the Mary Rose.
Made of silver fir with an oak flight, this object was found at the stern of the Mary Rose, alongside a bronze demiculverin (a type of cannon) which appears to have been the primary method of deployment. The head would have consisted of a pitch-coated cloth bag, containing Incendiary Mixture (gunpowder and sulphur) and a large iron spike, which would have embedded in the side of a ship, allowing the incendiary mix to blow a hole in the side."
Giant arrows. Fired out of cannon. On fire. Oh, the possibilities...
September 7th, 2012, 02:51 PM #2
All my old D&D characters are jealous.
September 7th, 2012, 03:04 PM #3
I know what you mean, and this stuff is so much cooler when you know it was actually real!
September 8th, 2012, 07:32 AM #4
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The big question of course is did it work? I can see a number of problems with it ranging from not always sticking in the target vessel and the charge exploding early. In fact, it looks like the sort of weapon that the inventor should have been made to sit on it metaphorically speaking until the idea went away.
September 8th, 2012, 12:28 PM #5
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Looks like something for Mythbusters (the T.V. show) to tackle.
September 8th, 2012, 02:05 PM #6
Obviously there's no saying it actually worked!
It could be every bit as much fun in a story to watch it not work, of course...
September 8th, 2012, 10:31 PM #7
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September 9th, 2012, 05:45 AM #8
I would have thought so, given this sort of thing wouldn't have been cheap I assume some sort of testing would have been done.
I don't know how well Mike Loades is known in the States but over here he has an occasional TV show on the history channel where he recreates ancient weapons and tests them (he did chariot archery a while ago, which was amazing!) so with a bit of luck he'll get his production company interested enough to let him have a go at this at some point.
September 9th, 2012, 03:18 PM #9
What's the time period for this weapon? 17th Century? 18th? 19th?
September 9th, 2012, 04:19 PM #10
Tudor - the Mary Rose sank in 1545 so sometime before then.
http://www.maryrose.org/ if you're interested.

subset: commoncrawl


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Helping Hands hoagie sale, Feb. 3, 2013
Sunday, February 03, 2013 12:08 PM
Inappropriate photo? Alert us.
Orchard Valley Middle School and Washington Township High School held it's annual Helping Hands hoagie sale on Sunday, February 3, 2013. (Staff Photo by Joe Warner/ South Jersey Times)
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