My grandmother is a diabetic and the older she gets the harder it is becoming to keep it under control. Over the past 6 months or so it has been a real struggle. She doesn’t have much of an appetiet so it has a really bad affect on her blood sugar levels. Diabeties runs in my family and my younger sister is starting to show signs of it. I have never had any symptoms and hope that I never do.
I am sorry to hear about your grandmother. I completely understand! My husband and his whole immediate family is diabetic. My husband is the only one with type 2, the rest of the family has type 1.
My best friend is diabetic and it changed my life! I really have to watch what we eat and especially if I cook. She has to watch her calorie intake. She can tell by her moods if her blood is too high or low. Crazy how the body works.
Ashleigh W.July 15, 2016 at 7:35 pm
I am sorry about your grandmother. Hopefully your sister doesn’t have it. My father had it, and it was tough on him. I completely understand.
My grandmother was a diabetic and had to take insulin. Since she had to take insulin she ate whatever she wanted to. sadly it affected her health drastically before she passed.
I am a diabetic and i have asked my doctor numerous times if i need to stay away from certain foods and they have said that i can eat whatever i want aslong as i give insulin. so we just have to be aware of how much insulin we need when we eat.
tscalesOctober 2, 2018 at 5:22 pm
Sorry to hear about your grandmother. But you know how the elderly are. They do what they want and leave here happy knowing they did it.
AbbyiroseOctober 4, 2018 at 12:17 am
It must be strenous to always have to keep track of that.
I’m sure it is scary because glucose levels are always fluctuating. I’m sure you do a good job keeping up with it!
hubenceOctober 28, 2018 at 10:13 pm
That’s crazy that your doctor wouldn’t immediately send you to dietitian. Most people can control or better control their diabetes through food intake. I’m not saying that food is the cure all of this, but it’s defiantly a key player!
vrobinsonJuly 27, 2016 at 8:47 pm
Diabetes is so hard to maintain especially with age.
Yes it is! Diet is very important with this also! Knowledge can help with age. But I hear ” you cant teach an old dog new tricks”…. Hard to handle, and diabetes changes every aspect of someones life.
Catapult1November 7, 2018 at 10:05 pm
So true. Diabetes is really hard to control after one is used to their eating pattern. There is a need for a real discipline in what one puts in their mouth but also to step up with physical exercises. Once one figures how to do this I know a lot of people who have controlled their type 2 diabetes to an extent that they are no longer needing their pills.
laureneleslieApril 6, 2022 at 5:45 pm
I agree, even some people who are diabetic and in perfect health other than that, and they abuse that and will literally act like they’re dying and not try to take care of themselves. Its a bad situation all around for people like that. But diabetes doesn’t always mean something bad.
abrewer2016November 8, 2016 at 12:01 pm
My grandma had diabetes and before she passed away hers had gotten so bad that she ended up having to get her leg amputated. Diabetes is very common but also very scary.
I agree with you on that one diabetes is really scary. especially when you get older and you are not able to do exercise. I would not want people to get diabetes my advice is to exercise as much as possible and watch your diet careful.
kherrickApril 9, 2017 at 9:13 pm
I had a family member that also had to have a leg amputated. It is very scary knowing it is in your family health history. you never know when it will hit next.
kwombleApril 17, 2017 at 1:44 pm
It’s so scary that this disease can cause you to lose your limbs also!
swhite1November 8, 2017 at 9:08 pm
Wow, it can be very scary. Sometimes it can be hard for people to change from their old habits because that is how they were raised.
Diabetes runs in my family as well and one of my sisters is starting to show signs of it too. My mother is diabetic and with her .. the older she gets the harder is for her to eat healthy.
It is hard, but there are certain lifestyle changes that are needing to be made and just like the old saying “its hard to teach an old dog new tricks” so I am wondering if the lifestyle changes themselves are hard or are you stuck in certain habits? I agree it can be challenging sometimes though.
mhall14December 2, 2018 at 1:44 am
It defiantly does get harder the older you get. As you get older it is harder to exercise to older people are often very over weight which can worsen their diabetes.
mfranklin1`March 16, 2017 at 10:50 am
My dad is diabetic and it effects every aspect of his life. It is very sad to see what it can do to the body as a whole
I have a few friends that are diabetic, but I really don’t see them complain about it, maybe with age it becomes much worse.
Jodie HammondsApril 11, 2018 at 1:45 am
My father is diabetic as well. I agree with your sadness, but at the same time, I get frustrated with my father for his refusal to acknowledge the dangers of his disease. I understand his denial, to some extent. But, his refusal to make ALL necessary changes, baffles me to this very day!
khamblenOctober 30, 2018 at 11:09 am
I had a friend in high school that had type 1 diabetes. My friend had a really hard time in school because he had a lot of the physical symptoms of diabetes, like bad skin and bad breath all the time. I tried to be there for him through school for support, you know how mean teenagers can be. It was really hard for him but I am glad to say that with a pancreas transplant he has been able to get off the pump and is living a more normal life now.
cnitch1November 5, 2018 at 8:00 pm
It is quite sad to see the impact diabetes has not only on the person who has its life but also on the family as a whole.
cnitch1November 5, 2018 at 8:01 pm
It is a terrible disease. It is sad to see how many people and their families are affected.
sawadjiheNovember 6, 2018 at 1:52 pm
I am very sorry for you dad. He needs to be encourage by you. You can help him with the insulin shot. He need to be strong to overcome diabetes. I really think that a good management of the treatment help a lot.
eramsey4317April 11, 2017 at 7:43 pm
Diabetes is an awful disease. My mother has type 2, but thankfully, she has been able to manage it with her diet. My ex husband has Type 1 diabetes, and there is no cure for that, he was diagnosed when he was 12 years old. My ex husband was and still is very noncompliant. He doesn’t have to do daily injections as he has an insulin pump and with the convenience of the pump, he never checked his blood sugar. It has had negative effects on his kidneys and his eyes so far. It is a terrible disease.
As you probably know, his condition will continue to get worse if he doesn’t start trying to manage his diabetes.
ycanasramosMarch 26, 2018 at 8:48 pm
I know what you feel like, my husband is a long-term diabetic and it is so sad to be watching how he is suffering. He could do something to get this illness reversed and he didn’t, now he tries to keep under control his blood sugar levels.
My grandfather was a really bad diabetic. He actually never could control it and he had several surgeries removing a finger, toe, even his full leg. He always had major sores on his one leg. It was the saddest thing ever. It is the worst thing for someone to go through or to watch a family member struggle with it.
My mother is also diabetic and diabetes also runs in our family so I know exactly how you feel. I go regularly to my doctor and have checkups and also have my mother to check my blood sugar every now and then if I feel it is off. My mother is very strict with watching her blood sugars and making sure that they are within range. I know my mother uses Glucerna which is a liquid supplement to keep her blood sugar levels steady when she doesn’t have an appetite.
My father is a diabetic and so far he has done great however everyone is different. Appetit loss is a common factor of diabetes unfortunately. Hopefully you get to be a “lucky” one and not end up with diabetes.
My grandmother on my moms side had diabetes. Her mom and siblings. She didn’t have to give her self insulin on a regular basis but it makes me aware that I need to be more active and watch what I eat.
I also know what that is like. My grandpa is a diabetic and is constantly having to check to make sure it is under control. It has definitely taken a toll on my entire family.
My grandma has diabetes and has made a lot of changes. She lost a lot of weight and rides a bike and jumps on her trampoline every day. She doesn’t eat bread and has to take a lot pills. She has to poke her finger with a needle and check her blood sugar. This is sad to see in kids. I do not know any kids with this, but I have learned that it is common for kids to have it. I am not sure if it is hereditary. I did not hear anything on the video that said it was. I need to look that up.
My grandmother has to take insulin shots. I remember having to give them to her in my teenage years. It always seemed so gross to me and she would get a kick out of watching me squirm, I believe that’ s why she would have me give it to her.
I think that diabetes is one of the most exhausting things you could be diagnosed with. There is so much to keep up with in order to maintain everything. It really is scary.
I know watching what you eat and exercise you can get rid of it. It is a training of your mind to do it though. I have several people in my family that has it and none of them watch their food intake. They eat alot of fatty foods and sweets.
Sadly many people believe that because they check their blood sugar and take the medications when needed that the disease is under control and shouldn’t have to worry about it. However, that is not the case. Your family members may not have symptoms of it now but continuing to eat the fatty and sweet foods and being a diabetic, the affects that could most likely occur later on carry a much greater risk. I would recommend them to discuss their eating habits with their doctor now.
You are absolutely right. many people think their diabeties is under control and they can eat whatever they want because they have insulin they can inject to bring the blood sugar down. Many people are unaccepting of help. And you can educate them all day and they will not listen to you.
Ashleigh W.July 15, 2016 at 7:37 pm
I overeat and I am fearful of developing the disease so I have been slowly trying to change my life style so I don’t have to go through this.
Molly HarveySeptember 20, 2016 at 1:11 am
Simply managing dietary intake does not get rid of type 1 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is caused by the bodies lack of production of insulin.
There are a lot of people who don’t take care of themselves after they are diagnosed. I feel that people need to be informed about what diabetes can do to the body to become more aware.
I completely agree with you, after my mother was diagnosed she went on this fat free, sugar free everything kick. She though she was taking the right steps to loose weight and get her sugar under control but she actually ended up doing more harm. After meeting with a nutritionist she learned a better way to eat and has made great strides in getting her weight down and her sugar under control.
lmehalicApril 22, 2018 at 10:45 am
I know a ridiculous amount of people who eat whatever they want and have insulin for when their blood sugar skyrockets. I agree, if you train yourself it will just come naturally to diet and maintain a healthy weight.
My mother in law is like this! She has diabetes but you would never know because her eating habits do not reflect someone who has been diagnosed with a serious disease.
I always watch the biggest loser and almost if not all that come to the ranch are diabetics. But as they start to lose the weight almost all go off of their medications. It all comes down to watching what you eat and exercise daily or you will have alot of health problems when all you have to do is exercise and watch your fat intake. Both of my parents are diabetics and neither watch what they eat. Im afraid of getting it so I try to watch what I eat and I walk at least 3 miles a day.
Love that show! I would like to go to a camp to get my eating and exercise habits in control. I am a person that needs someone there to push me to do it.
You are right about the Biggest Loser contestants almost all being diabetics. This goes to show that diabetes can be managed by losing weight. You are smart that you are observing what your parents are doing and changing some of your own habits. I’m trying to do the same.
I think it’s great that you watch what you eat to prevent diabetes. I have started eating better and less sugar, so I can feel healthier and prevent diseases.
It is important for people with a family history of diabetes or someone diagnosed with diabetes to keep check of their blood sugar level. My parents both have diabetes, and my mother sees now that she has lost wieght and eats the proper diet, that she should have taken better care of the disease years ago and her health would not be as bad as it is now. Neuropathy has taken a toll on her legs and feet causing her to not be able to walk like she should. It is a serious disease and should be taken seriously and not lightly.
I agree. Its very important for people with a family history to follow up with there PCP. The sooner it is caught the better. The effects of this disease can be very serious and harmful to the body.
Some of these foods I never would have thought would make your blood sugar go up. When I think of blood sugar being raised, I primarily think of sweets and sugar.
My doctor told me I could eat just about anything as long as it is small portions, and I had to make sure it was a balanced meal. So, I stop going out to eat everyday and started preparing most of my meals.
That’s wonderful, I am sure you are seeing changes in your body! Eating out is so bad if your trying to loose weight!
R-EApril 12, 2011 at 8:43 pm
RD- you are luck that diabetes does not run in your family, but sometimes you have diabetes with no symptoms. It is always good to have a check up once a year for children and adults with some blood work just to be on the safe side.
I can not imagine having to live with diabetes! It is critical to take care of yourself if you do have it. I have a friend who went into a diabetic comma and died from not taking care of herself properly.
I cannot imagine it either but I would like to believe I would try my best to do what I needed to do to keep myself healthy. My sister has diabetes and she ignores it like it will go away or something. She dries me crazy.
I feel fortunate that diabetes does not run in my family. I do have one aunt who suffers from it but she has been overweight her whole life and it was latent in its appearence. She manages it with diet and close watch of her blood sugar.
Diabetes is definately one of the most common things I see as a nurse…..People do not understand what diabetes is about, they think they just have the “sugar” they do not know it effects every cell in their body…..Even when you try to explain it, they really do not comprehend. I see so many diabetics with either kidney or heart problems……..and eventually vision problems or amputations… Diabetes is serious!
I agree, My best friend was a diabetic who had multiple amputations, and kidney problems. She died waiting to have a kidney transplant. Diabetes is a very serious disease.
My father also had multiple amputations and later died. People should take this disease seriously and change their eating habits and exercise routines.
SRogersApril 7, 2018 at 3:57 pm
I agree. I have an uncle with diabetes, who has not taken good care of himself. He is now having vision trouble due to the disease. I wish more people would take the time to learn about this disease and take care of themselves.
Diabetes is a real problem in our world today. For people who are over weight we are in rish of type II. I never really understood why diabetics take longer to heal? And are more prone to get infections before the wound heals properly. In the video, it was explained that diabetics heal slower because diabetes affects the white blood cells that help to fight off infections and it decreases oxygen that helps the wound to heal. I have pretty much scared myself into thinking I am a canidate for type II diabetes and have taken it upon myself to eat healthier and I have began a trainging program a few months back. My weight has gotten out of control and it is time to take that control BACK!!!
Diabetes is at an increase in this country.This video is very informative,if we can just watch our diet,add a little exercise,increase fruits and fibers in our diet we might be on our way to reducing diabetic occurences.My mom has diabetes,eventhough i am a carbon copy of my mom,i do not intend on inheriting diabetes from her.
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i can’t believe that 90% of americans with diabetes are type 2 which is what my father is. he gives himself shots twice a day. the movies were really imformative imaybe some of the things they talked about i can share with him to control his disease better than he has been.
My grandpa had diabetes. Because of that, I am more conscientous about my lifestyle. I try to stay at an average weight and eat as healthy as possible. Exercise is also important. I do all the things I am aware of to avoid developing diabetes as well.
Diabeties runs in my family, so this video although good was not really that educational for me. Type 1 diabeties is a terrible disease that happens to someone by no fault of their own, and exercise and diet are not enough to control it. Type 2 however could sometimes be avoided if people would listen to their doctors advice on physical activity and eating. I would much rather go for a walk and eat healthy than take a shot 2 or more times a day!!
this is some really great videos and diabetes and if all diabetics could follow all of the eating and exercise rules we might have less folks being diabetics. My husband is a diabetic and my daughter has a problem with weight gain, so it is very difficult to have a proper eating schedule around my house. Good video
This video didnt really teach me much. My grandma has had type 1 diabetes all my life. I have had to watch her give herself shots, watch everything she eats, have weak spells, I have even seen her go into a diabetic coma. I have written papers and studied diabetes just to try to understand it. It is a terrible disease. It is something that completely consumes your life if you have it.
That is so sad to hear, having type-1 is so different from type-2 and is often overlooked since its not what the majority of people have. I hope that in the future something can be created to help these people who suffer from type-1 diabetes and make their lives easier.
My papa is a terrible diabetic and has been all my life. As well as both of his brothers and his wife, my grandmother. Papas is the worst. He is on a strict diet and has to give himself shot in the stomach when he eats. Sometimes he gets really weak and has dizzy spells. We have to watch him close. This video did not tell me anything that I didn’t know already know due to growing up around my papa being a diabetic.
These videos are very informative to those who have diabetes. One of my very close friends is diabetic and these videos helped me better understand about the disease.
These videos were very informative about diabetes and what it does to the body. I have always heard of diabetes and thought I knew exactly what it was but now I have a real understanding of it.
I never realized how many things could be affected by diabetes until watching these videos. I learned that diabetes affects white blood cells which is the reason diabetics take longer to heal and are more prone to infections. I also learned that diabetes can affect the eyes, especially the retinas, nerves, the heart, and the kidneys. Diabetes is the number one cause of kidney failure. I consider myself very lucky to have no problems with diabetes and I now look at people who have to struggle to manage with diabetes in a whole new light.
I am very thankful that no one in my family suffers from diabetes. But the videos were very informative for in case someone does get diagnosed. Also I always wondered why people with diabetes didn’t heal fast and now with the help of the video I now know its because diabetes affects the white blood cells.
My father in law was diabetic. He went through so much. He spent countless hours in a pressure chamber trying to heal diabetic ulcers on his feet. It was so sad. But he stayed upbeat. Even when they told him it was not working and they would have to amputate.
He followed his diet restriction. was not able to walk though.
For people who have diabetes it is very had for many of them to control it. These days there are so many high sugers and salts in food. I enjoyed these videos they help me to really look at the food in a different way. Diabetes run in my family.
I never knew how rough diabetics had it before this video. I never knew that diabets had an affect on the white blood cells which caused the imune system to fail. I feel sorry for diabets in this world and what they go through each and every day.
Iam thankful i dont have diabetes running in my immediate family.but thanks to these videos and what i learned in nursing school. i think every diabetic needs such useful information
My grandma is diabetic and I see everyday how difficult it is for her. She takes lots of different medications and she goes through a lot of pain. Very Informative information to share.
I agree that people should take care of their health just because it makes you feel better. Diabetes does not run in my family and I am glad. I really love sweets and sometimes I eat them uncontrolably.
I am the same way….but…just a few days ago my sister was given 2 months to get on track and to loose some weight because she is in the onset of stage 2 diabetes. So I guess I had better wake up and pay attention.
Diabetes also runs in my family; some control it well and others do not. The ones that don’t have had terrible problems with it, and made me realize how important lifestyle change is. Even people with low risk should watch their weight, exercise, and eat right just because it will make you feel better.
Diabetes is effected by our glucose levels. Heart, nurves, kidneys and eyes are all efected strongly by diabetes, the retina is the most often effected place in the body and the longer a person has diabetes, then your chances of developing retina damage, even to a small degree, is totaly unavoidable.
Diabetic diets are not as bad as I thought they would be. Weight plays a great part in decreasing your level of diabetes. If you are overweight it can increases the severity of your diabetes. It is possible to eliminate diabeties (in certain situations) with weight loss and better planned nutrition.
Eating healthy balance meals, drinking water, and exercising daily is pretty much the “Golden Rule” to keep us alive and well. My grandfather had diabetes and its know to skip a generation which leads to his grandchildern as contestants.
He suffered from gangrene. I never knew why he could never recover from infections. Now I know that there is a decrease in white blood cells and a decrease in oxygen which makes it difficult to fight infection and diease with diabetes. With an healthy diet, exercise, and an healthy weight you can decrease chances of diabetes, kidney and cardiovascular diease, and nerve damgae. You are who you make yourself and you determine your life! In the end, my grandpa made his choice. He stopped taking care of himself which killed him in the end. So take care of yourself or you will determine how long you live.
Diabetes runs in my family also, on both my mother and my daddy’s side. I found out in 2005 that I was a diabetic. I have since lost 100 pounds and don’t have to take my medicine anymore. The problem I am left with though is that it did affect my eyes and my sight is getting worse. I know some of it comes with age but the doctor told me my problem was caused from going so long with my sugars levels so high. When I first found out I had diabetes my sugar that day at the doctor’s office was 410. I think I gave the doctor a stroke that day, she was more upset about it than I was. Thankfully, with diet and exercise I have my diabetes under control.
Wow 100 pounds and now its under control. Sorry to hear about your eye sight but least you have it under control and no longer have to take the medication.
I really liked the computer animation of how glucose moves in the cells in the first video. Its amazing how much easy it makes it to see something like that when you’re trying to learn it.
This video is very informative. I thought if were diagnosed as a diabetic the eating of the foods you love was over and this video shows you that is not the case. The Dr.’s in this video, lets know that you can still eat the foods you love but in moderation and a adding exercise to your diet. Thats sounds more realistic to me. I hope to never be a diabetic, but it is not the end of the world for the people that are. I didn’t know you can be a diabetic, and with the rights foods and exercise you may never have to take medication. So I guessing, it is safe to say that diabetes can possibly be reversed.
What does Diabetes Do?
This was a great video. I am so glad I am not diabetic they are at risk for alot of things such as injuires and kidney diease and cardiovascular diease. I need to start watching my weight and watching what I eat so I will not be at risk for becoming a diabetic. However, diabetes does run in my family and some of my family members have to take insulin shots to stay healthy. That is not something I want to depend on.
I’m very lucky that no one in my family are diabetic. The only experience I have with it is at work. I know it is very dangerous if it isn’t controlled. However, I think if you would just follow the “rules” of eating right and checking your sugar like your supposed to it wouldn’t be so hard to manage.
My family has no history of diabetes but I know many people that have it. I try my best to eat healthy and cut out as much bad stuff as I possibly can, and take advantage of the fact that I’m healthy now and hopefully can stay that way as I get older.
I have an aunt and an uncle who are both diabetic. My Uncle has been for years, he has to use insilin and my aunt was just diagnosed last month. I am going to have to be careful because I am a perfect candidate. I understand that diet is the key…and exercise. I see that the theme for most everything is moderation. I am such an all or nothing person that I do myself a real disservice. Even just cutting back would make all the difference.
With most people I know having diabetes, it is kinda become like a minor threat but theses videos woke me up to a realization of the real danger of having diabetes.
Diabetes runs all through my family, you are affected in many ways by this disease. I knew a little about it because of my family history of it. The video was very good on showing how the body breaks down and reacts.
I never really understood why diabetics take longer to heal than others and are more prone to get infections before the wound heals properly. In the video, it was explained that diabetics heal slower because diabetes affects the white blood cells that help to fight off infections and it decreases oxygen that helps the wound to heal.
Yes, that was helpful. I have heard of people losing a leg from diabetes, but I never knew why it happened. My uncle is a lawyer and just a big bold personality and we have a difficult time getting him to stick with the program. He has had a couple of hard lessons though…you have to take diabetes very seriously. It will get you if you don’t. He has calmed down some and now that he is a grandfather he is taking better care of himself.
My dad has diabetes and he is very ignorant when it comes to healthy living with the disease. I find any information extremely helpful and try to share as much with him as possible. These videos are pretty informative.
I agree, the video is very infromative of how diabetes is and how diabetes can be treated by eating healthy diet foods.
SAFJuly 10, 2010 at 6:37 pm
My grandfather is a diabetic and I know a lot of this video is what the doctor told him to do. I know that he has to take gluclose tablets sometimes when he gets to feeling weak. He takes orange ones but that also make other flavors lie grape, apple and cherry. We also no longer use salt at my house. Instead we use a salt substitue. Not as good but you get used to it.
Its definitely tough to live with diabetes. My dad has it and he doesn’t really take care of himself. We all have a lot to learn and could stand to improve on healthier lifestyles.
Diabetes runs in my family. It would be wonderful to think that by making a few simple changes in diet, adding exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight that family members with diabetes could control it, and members that don’t have it might not be at such a high risk. The video gave simple ideas such as trying to lose 10 or 20 pounds if needed, get water instead of coke, and add more fruits and grains into our diet.
This video also helped me to learn what effects it has on the body. Even tho it does not run in my family, we can still get it.
QALJuly 11, 2010 at 5:01 pm
My family also has a history of diabetes. I am really trying to get into better shape and add exercise into my daily routine. I have not been having any health problems yet and hopefully as long as I watch what I eat I will able to remain healthy and stay active.
I only know of one person in family that has diabetes. But I am also trying to do the same after taking this nutrition class. I want to set a good example for my daughter. I know I need to eat healthier and exercise more.
Ashley MNovember 2, 2010 at 5:18 pm
Im right there with ya. I’m taking percautions because my grandpa has diabetes and it skips a generation. So my siblings and cousins are perfect contestants for the diease. Its scary to think about.
My husband suffers with diabetes everyday and is very difficult for him and all of us. What’s more frustrating is how uneducated and unhealthy he STILL chooses to live!! But these videos I MADE him sit and watch them with me! PRAYERS NOW…
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My grandmother is a diabetic and the older she gets the harder it is becoming to keep it under control. Over the past 6 months or so it has been a real struggle. She doesn’t have much of an appetiet so it has a really bad affect on her blood sugar levels. Diabeties runs in my family and my younger sister is starting to show signs of it. I have never had any symptoms and hope that I never do.
I am sorry to hear about your grandmother. I completely understand! My husband and his whole immediate family is diabetic. My husband is the only one with type 2, the rest of the family has type 1.
My best friend is diabetic and it changed my life! I really have to watch what we eat and especially if I cook. She has to watch her calorie intake. She can tell by her moods if her blood is too high or low. Crazy how the body works.
I am sorry about your grandmother. Hopefully your sister doesn’t have it. My father had it, and it was tough on him. I completely understand.
My grandmother was a diabetic and had to take insulin. Since she had to take insulin she ate whatever she wanted to. sadly it affected her health drastically before she passed.
I am a diabetic and i have asked my doctor numerous times if i need to stay away from certain foods and they have said that i can eat whatever i want aslong as i give insulin. so we just have to be aware of how much insulin we need when we eat.
Sorry to hear about your grandmother. But you know how the elderly are. They do what they want and leave here happy knowing they did it.
It must be strenous to always have to keep track of that.
I am the same way. It is so scary to me.
I’m sure it is scary because glucose levels are always fluctuating. I’m sure you do a good job keeping up with it!
That’s crazy that your doctor wouldn’t immediately send you to dietitian. Most people can control or better control their diabetes through food intake. I’m not saying that food is the cure all of this, but it’s defiantly a key player!
Diabetes is so hard to maintain especially with age.
Yes it is! Diet is very important with this also! Knowledge can help with age. But I hear ” you cant teach an old dog new tricks”…. Hard to handle, and diabetes changes every aspect of someones life.
So true. Diabetes is really hard to control after one is used to their eating pattern. There is a need for a real discipline in what one puts in their mouth but also to step up with physical exercises. Once one figures how to do this I know a lot of people who have controlled their type 2 diabetes to an extent that they are no longer needing their pills.
I agree, even some people who are diabetic and in perfect health other than that, and they abuse that and will literally act like they’re dying and not try to take care of themselves. Its a bad situation all around for people like that. But diabetes doesn’t always mean something bad.
My grandma had diabetes and before she passed away hers had gotten so bad that she ended up having to get her leg amputated. Diabetes is very common but also very scary.
I agree with you on that one diabetes is really scary. especially when you get older and you are not able to do exercise. I would not want people to get diabetes my advice is to exercise as much as possible and watch your diet careful.
I had a family member that also had to have a leg amputated. It is very scary knowing it is in your family health history. you never know when it will hit next.
It’s so scary that this disease can cause you to lose your limbs also!
Wow, it can be very scary. Sometimes it can be hard for people to change from their old habits because that is how they were raised.
Diabetes runs in my family as well and one of my sisters is starting to show signs of it too. My mother is diabetic and with her .. the older she gets the harder is for her to eat healthy.
My son is a T1D he was diagnosed at 11 years old. It ran on my wives side of the family and it was very scary to get that diagnoses.
Managing diabetes with aging and diet is hard
It is hard, but there are certain lifestyle changes that are needing to be made and just like the old saying “its hard to teach an old dog new tricks” so I am wondering if the lifestyle changes themselves are hard or are you stuck in certain habits? I agree it can be challenging sometimes though.
It defiantly does get harder the older you get. As you get older it is harder to exercise to older people are often very over weight which can worsen their diabetes.
My dad is diabetic and it effects every aspect of his life. It is very sad to see what it can do to the body as a whole
I have a few friends that are diabetic, but I really don’t see them complain about it, maybe with age it becomes much worse.
My father is diabetic as well. I agree with your sadness, but at the same time, I get frustrated with my father for his refusal to acknowledge the dangers of his disease. I understand his denial, to some extent. But, his refusal to make ALL necessary changes, baffles me to this very day!
I had a friend in high school that had type 1 diabetes. My friend had a really hard time in school because he had a lot of the physical symptoms of diabetes, like bad skin and bad breath all the time. I tried to be there for him through school for support, you know how mean teenagers can be. It was really hard for him but I am glad to say that with a pancreas transplant he has been able to get off the pump and is living a more normal life now.
It is quite sad to see the impact diabetes has not only on the person who has its life but also on the family as a whole.
It is a terrible disease. It is sad to see how many people and their families are affected.
I am very sorry for you dad. He needs to be encourage by you. You can help him with the insulin shot. He need to be strong to overcome diabetes. I really think that a good management of the treatment help a lot.
Diabetes is an awful disease. My mother has type 2, but thankfully, she has been able to manage it with her diet. My ex husband has Type 1 diabetes, and there is no cure for that, he was diagnosed when he was 12 years old. My ex husband was and still is very noncompliant. He doesn’t have to do daily injections as he has an insulin pump and with the convenience of the pump, he never checked his blood sugar. It has had negative effects on his kidneys and his eyes so far. It is a terrible disease.
As you probably know, his condition will continue to get worse if he doesn’t start trying to manage his diabetes.
I know what you feel like, my husband is a long-term diabetic and it is so sad to be watching how he is suffering. He could do something to get this illness reversed and he didn’t, now he tries to keep under control his blood sugar levels.
My grandfather was a really bad diabetic. He actually never could control it and he had several surgeries removing a finger, toe, even his full leg. He always had major sores on his one leg. It was the saddest thing ever. It is the worst thing for someone to go through or to watch a family member struggle with it.
My mother is also diabetic and diabetes also runs in our family so I know exactly how you feel. I go regularly to my doctor and have checkups and also have my mother to check my blood sugar every now and then if I feel it is off. My mother is very strict with watching her blood sugars and making sure that they are within range. I know my mother uses Glucerna which is a liquid supplement to keep her blood sugar levels steady when she doesn’t have an appetite.
My father is a diabetic and so far he has done great however everyone is different. Appetit loss is a common factor of diabetes unfortunately. Hopefully you get to be a “lucky” one and not end up with diabetes.
I’m sorry to hear about your grandmother. The best thing to do for your sister is get a doctor’s advice on a good diet.
My grandmother on my moms side had diabetes. Her mom and siblings. She didn’t have to give her self insulin on a regular basis but it makes me aware that I need to be more active and watch what I eat.
I also know what that is like. My grandpa is a diabetic and is constantly having to check to make sure it is under control. It has definitely taken a toll on my entire family.
My grandma has diabetes and has made a lot of changes. She lost a lot of weight and rides a bike and jumps on her trampoline every day. She doesn’t eat bread and has to take a lot pills. She has to poke her finger with a needle and check her blood sugar. This is sad to see in kids. I do not know any kids with this, but I have learned that it is common for kids to have it. I am not sure if it is hereditary. I did not hear anything on the video that said it was. I need to look that up.
My grandmother has to take insulin shots. I remember having to give them to her in my teenage years. It always seemed so gross to me and she would get a kick out of watching me squirm, I believe that’ s why she would have me give it to her.
That’s cute. It was good that you knew how!
Good for her for taking back her life!
Diabetes can be hereditary especially if a parent had it your more likely to get it.
I think that diabetes is one of the most exhausting things you could be diagnosed with. There is so much to keep up with in order to maintain everything. It really is scary.
I know watching what you eat and exercise you can get rid of it. It is a training of your mind to do it though. I have several people in my family that has it and none of them watch their food intake. They eat alot of fatty foods and sweets.
you should definitely tell them that if they watch what they eat and exercise even a little that it could save there life and help them
This video could change their life completely! You should share this link with them.
Your food intake is a very important factor, as well as excercise.
Sadly many people believe that because they check their blood sugar and take the medications when needed that the disease is under control and shouldn’t have to worry about it. However, that is not the case. Your family members may not have symptoms of it now but continuing to eat the fatty and sweet foods and being a diabetic, the affects that could most likely occur later on carry a much greater risk. I would recommend them to discuss their eating habits with their doctor now.
You are absolutely right. many people think their diabeties is under control and they can eat whatever they want because they have insulin they can inject to bring the blood sugar down. Many people are unaccepting of help. And you can educate them all day and they will not listen to you.
I overeat and I am fearful of developing the disease so I have been slowly trying to change my life style so I don’t have to go through this.
Simply managing dietary intake does not get rid of type 1 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is caused by the bodies lack of production of insulin.
I know many with diabetes who do not seem to want to change their diet.
There are a lot of people who don’t take care of themselves after they are diagnosed. I feel that people need to be informed about what diabetes can do to the body to become more aware.
I completely agree with you, after my mother was diagnosed she went on this fat free, sugar free everything kick. She though she was taking the right steps to loose weight and get her sugar under control but she actually ended up doing more harm. After meeting with a nutritionist she learned a better way to eat and has made great strides in getting her weight down and her sugar under control.
I know a ridiculous amount of people who eat whatever they want and have insulin for when their blood sugar skyrockets. I agree, if you train yourself it will just come naturally to diet and maintain a healthy weight.
My mother in law is like this! She has diabetes but you would never know because her eating habits do not reflect someone who has been diagnosed with a serious disease.
I always watch the biggest loser and almost if not all that come to the ranch are diabetics. But as they start to lose the weight almost all go off of their medications. It all comes down to watching what you eat and exercise daily or you will have alot of health problems when all you have to do is exercise and watch your fat intake. Both of my parents are diabetics and neither watch what they eat. Im afraid of getting it so I try to watch what I eat and I walk at least 3 miles a day.
Love that show! I would like to go to a camp to get my eating and exercise habits in control. I am a person that needs someone there to push me to do it.
You are right about the Biggest Loser contestants almost all being diabetics. This goes to show that diabetes can be managed by losing weight. You are smart that you are observing what your parents are doing and changing some of your own habits. I’m trying to do the same.
I think it’s great that you watch what you eat to prevent diabetes. I have started eating better and less sugar, so I can feel healthier and prevent diseases.
I think weight has a lot to do with diabetics, loosing it gives you a chance to cure it. A lot of people don’t think they can, but it can be done.
Exercise and limiting sweets can reduce the risk of adult onset diabetes.
It is important for people with a family history of diabetes or someone diagnosed with diabetes to keep check of their blood sugar level. My parents both have diabetes, and my mother sees now that she has lost wieght and eats the proper diet, that she should have taken better care of the disease years ago and her health would not be as bad as it is now. Neuropathy has taken a toll on her legs and feet causing her to not be able to walk like she should. It is a serious disease and should be taken seriously and not lightly.
Yea thats true. It worries me all the time so I try to keep my diet in check so I don’t have to worry about any of that in the future.
I agree. I have a family history of diabetes. When I started having symptoms, I immediately went to the doctor. I am now taking medication.
I agree. Its very important for people with a family history to follow up with there PCP. The sooner it is caught the better. The effects of this disease can be very serious and harmful to the body.
That is a great tip! Not everybody would think about looking at family history before hand and checking on their blood sugar levels.
Some of these foods I never would have thought would make your blood sugar go up. When I think of blood sugar being raised, I primarily think of sweets and sugar.
My doctor told me I could eat just about anything as long as it is small portions, and I had to make sure it was a balanced meal. So, I stop going out to eat everyday and started preparing most of my meals.
That’s wonderful, I am sure you are seeing changes in your body! Eating out is so bad if your trying to loose weight!
RD- you are luck that diabetes does not run in your family, but sometimes you have diabetes with no symptoms. It is always good to have a check up once a year for children and adults with some blood work just to be on the safe side.
RE
I can not imagine having to live with diabetes! It is critical to take care of yourself if you do have it. I have a friend who went into a diabetic comma and died from not taking care of herself properly.
Living with diabetes is really hard. I had a friend also who died from being a diabetic.
I cannot imagine it either but I would like to believe I would try my best to do what I needed to do to keep myself healthy. My sister has diabetes and she ignores it like it will go away or something. She dries me crazy.
My friend did the same thing! It was a big scare. Sadly, she did not learn her lesson and she does still not take care of herself properly.
I feel fortunate that diabetes does not run in my family. I do have one aunt who suffers from it but she has been overweight her whole life and it was latent in its appearence. She manages it with diet and close watch of her blood sugar.
Diabetes is definately one of the most common things I see as a nurse…..People do not understand what diabetes is about, they think they just have the “sugar” they do not know it effects every cell in their body…..Even when you try to explain it, they really do not comprehend. I see so many diabetics with either kidney or heart problems……..and eventually vision problems or amputations… Diabetes is serious!
I agree, My best friend was a diabetic who had multiple amputations, and kidney problems. She died waiting to have a kidney transplant. Diabetes is a very serious disease.
My father also had multiple amputations and later died. People should take this disease seriously and change their eating habits and exercise routines.
I agree. I have an uncle with diabetes, who has not taken good care of himself. He is now having vision trouble due to the disease. I wish more people would take the time to learn about this disease and take care of themselves.
Diabetes is a real problem in our world today. For people who are over weight we are in rish of type II. I never really understood why diabetics take longer to heal? And are more prone to get infections before the wound heals properly. In the video, it was explained that diabetics heal slower because diabetes affects the white blood cells that help to fight off infections and it decreases oxygen that helps the wound to heal. I have pretty much scared myself into thinking I am a canidate for type II diabetes and have taken it upon myself to eat healthier and I have began a trainging program a few months back. My weight has gotten out of control and it is time to take that control BACK!!!
Diabetes is at an increase in this country.This video is very informative,if we can just watch our diet,add a little exercise,increase fruits and fibers in our diet we might be on our way to reducing diabetic occurences.My mom has diabetes,eventhough i am a carbon copy of my mom,i do not intend on inheriting diabetes from her.
EA
i can’t believe that 90% of americans with diabetes are type 2 which is what my father is. he gives himself shots twice a day. the movies were really imformative imaybe some of the things they talked about i can share with him to control his disease better than he has been.
I had no idea that pretzels caused blood sugar spikes. Usually, I think of sweet things as doing this. s-g
Same! I always sweet foods causing blood sugar spikes.
I think its the salt in the pretzels?
My grandpa had diabetes. Because of that, I am more conscientous about my lifestyle. I try to stay at an average weight and eat as healthy as possible. Exercise is also important. I do all the things I am aware of to avoid developing diabetes as well.
Diabeties runs in my family, so this video although good was not really that educational for me. Type 1 diabeties is a terrible disease that happens to someone by no fault of their own, and exercise and diet are not enough to control it. Type 2 however could sometimes be avoided if people would listen to their doctors advice on physical activity and eating. I would much rather go for a walk and eat healthy than take a shot 2 or more times a day!!
this is some really great videos and diabetes and if all diabetics could follow all of the eating and exercise rules we might have less folks being diabetics. My husband is a diabetic and my daughter has a problem with weight gain, so it is very difficult to have a proper eating schedule around my house. Good video
This video didnt really teach me much. My grandma has had type 1 diabetes all my life. I have had to watch her give herself shots, watch everything she eats, have weak spells, I have even seen her go into a diabetic coma. I have written papers and studied diabetes just to try to understand it. It is a terrible disease. It is something that completely consumes your life if you have it.
That is so sad to hear, having type-1 is so different from type-2 and is often overlooked since its not what the majority of people have. I hope that in the future something can be created to help these people who suffer from type-1 diabetes and make their lives easier.
My papa is a terrible diabetic and has been all my life. As well as both of his brothers and his wife, my grandmother. Papas is the worst. He is on a strict diet and has to give himself shot in the stomach when he eats. Sometimes he gets really weak and has dizzy spells. We have to watch him close. This video did not tell me anything that I didn’t know already know due to growing up around my papa being a diabetic.
These videos are very informative to those who have diabetes. One of my very close friends is diabetic and these videos helped me better understand about the disease.
These videos were very informative about diabetes and what it does to the body. I have always heard of diabetes and thought I knew exactly what it was but now I have a real understanding of it.
diabetes runs in my family as well and i’m scared that i could possibly get it because i probably don’t take as good of care of my body than i should.
Its a very serious condition, it is well worth the extra effort to be take care of yourself especially if your predisposed to diabetes.
I never realized how many things could be affected by diabetes until watching these videos. I learned that diabetes affects white blood cells which is the reason diabetics take longer to heal and are more prone to infections. I also learned that diabetes can affect the eyes, especially the retinas, nerves, the heart, and the kidneys. Diabetes is the number one cause of kidney failure. I consider myself very lucky to have no problems with diabetes and I now look at people who have to struggle to manage with diabetes in a whole new light.
I am very thankful that no one in my family suffers from diabetes. But the videos were very informative for in case someone does get diagnosed. Also I always wondered why people with diabetes didn’t heal fast and now with the help of the video I now know its because diabetes affects the white blood cells.
My father in law was diabetic. He went through so much. He spent countless hours in a pressure chamber trying to heal diabetic ulcers on his feet. It was so sad. But he stayed upbeat. Even when they told him it was not working and they would have to amputate.
He followed his diet restriction. was not able to walk though.
For people who have diabetes it is very had for many of them to control it. These days there are so many high sugers and salts in food. I enjoyed these videos they help me to really look at the food in a different way. Diabetes run in my family.
I never knew how rough diabetics had it before this video. I never knew that diabets had an affect on the white blood cells which caused the imune system to fail. I feel sorry for diabets in this world and what they go through each and every day.
Iam thankful i dont have diabetes running in my immediate family.but thanks to these videos and what i learned in nursing school. i think every diabetic needs such useful information
I completely agree. I believe that knowledge is the best medicine for long-term diseases and illnesses
I agree, very useful videos!
I agree. A lot of diabetics cannot manage their diabetes because they do not know how. This video will definitely help.
My grandma is diabetic and I see everyday how difficult it is for her. She takes lots of different medications and she goes through a lot of pain. Very Informative information to share.
I agree that people should take care of their health just because it makes you feel better. Diabetes does not run in my family and I am glad. I really love sweets and sometimes I eat them uncontrolably.
Yea but it seems like no matter what we do, were all at risk for something in a way. I almost wanna just live in a bubble.
I am the same way….but…just a few days ago my sister was given 2 months to get on track and to loose some weight because she is in the onset of stage 2 diabetes. So I guess I had better wake up and pay attention.
Agreed.
Diabetes also runs in my family; some control it well and others do not. The ones that don’t have had terrible problems with it, and made me realize how important lifestyle change is. Even people with low risk should watch their weight, exercise, and eat right just because it will make you feel better.
Diabetes is effected by our glucose levels. Heart, nurves, kidneys and eyes are all efected strongly by diabetes, the retina is the most often effected place in the body and the longer a person has diabetes, then your chances of developing retina damage, even to a small degree, is totaly unavoidable.
Diabetic diets are not as bad as I thought they would be. Weight plays a great part in decreasing your level of diabetes. If you are overweight it can increases the severity of your diabetes. It is possible to eliminate diabeties (in certain situations) with weight loss and better planned nutrition.
Eating healthy balance meals, drinking water, and exercising daily is pretty much the “Golden Rule” to keep us alive and well. My grandfather had diabetes and its know to skip a generation which leads to his grandchildern as contestants.
He suffered from gangrene. I never knew why he could never recover from infections. Now I know that there is a decrease in white blood cells and a decrease in oxygen which makes it difficult to fight infection and diease with diabetes. With an healthy diet, exercise, and an healthy weight you can decrease chances of diabetes, kidney and cardiovascular diease, and nerve damgae. You are who you make yourself and you determine your life! In the end, my grandpa made his choice. He stopped taking care of himself which killed him in the end. So take care of yourself or you will determine how long you live.
All of these videos have been really helpful for me.
Is good to have more information to help the family member that have this disease.
Diabetes runs in my family also, on both my mother and my daddy’s side. I found out in 2005 that I was a diabetic. I have since lost 100 pounds and don’t have to take my medicine anymore. The problem I am left with though is that it did affect my eyes and my sight is getting worse. I know some of it comes with age but the doctor told me my problem was caused from going so long with my sugars levels so high. When I first found out I had diabetes my sugar that day at the doctor’s office was 410. I think I gave the doctor a stroke that day, she was more upset about it than I was. Thankfully, with diet and exercise I have my diabetes under control.
Wow 100 pounds and now its under control. Sorry to hear about your eye sight but least you have it under control and no longer have to take the medication.
i always thought that a diabetic couldn’t have sugar at all. i guess thats my ignorance.
I really liked the computer animation of how glucose moves in the cells in the first video. Its amazing how much easy it makes it to see something like that when you’re trying to learn it.
i agree. I am a visual learner and almost all of the video’s we’ve watched have had great animations. it really helps me learn
This video is very informative. I thought if were diagnosed as a diabetic the eating of the foods you love was over and this video shows you that is not the case. The Dr.’s in this video, lets know that you can still eat the foods you love but in moderation and a adding exercise to your diet. Thats sounds more realistic to me. I hope to never be a diabetic, but it is not the end of the world for the people that are. I didn’t know you can be a diabetic, and with the rights foods and exercise you may never have to take medication. So I guessing, it is safe to say that diabetes can possibly be reversed.
What does Diabetes Do?
This was a great video. I am so glad I am not diabetic they are at risk for alot of things such as injuires and kidney diease and cardiovascular diease. I need to start watching my weight and watching what I eat so I will not be at risk for becoming a diabetic. However, diabetes does run in my family and some of my family members have to take insulin shots to stay healthy. That is not something I want to depend on.
I believe compliance is the best way to treat diabetes. It can be controlled for the most part by meds and diet.
I’m very lucky that no one in my family are diabetic. The only experience I have with it is at work. I know it is very dangerous if it isn’t controlled. However, I think if you would just follow the “rules” of eating right and checking your sugar like your supposed to it wouldn’t be so hard to manage.
My family has no history of diabetes but I know many people that have it. I try my best to eat healthy and cut out as much bad stuff as I possibly can, and take advantage of the fact that I’m healthy now and hopefully can stay that way as I get older.
I have an aunt and an uncle who are both diabetic. My Uncle has been for years, he has to use insilin and my aunt was just diagnosed last month. I am going to have to be careful because I am a perfect candidate. I understand that diet is the key…and exercise. I see that the theme for most everything is moderation. I am such an all or nothing person that I do myself a real disservice. Even just cutting back would make all the difference.
With most people I know having diabetes, it is kinda become like a minor threat but theses videos woke me up to a realization of the real danger of having diabetes.
It can be a very scary disease.
Me too. Me being a diabetic it was very alarming.
I didn’t know that diabetes was a main cause of kidney problems.
and that weight loss could help to level out the diabetes either.
amazing.
Diabetes runs all through my family, you are affected in many ways by this disease. I knew a little about it because of my family history of it. The video was very good on showing how the body breaks down and reacts.
My Great Grandma had diabetes.
and yes these vids were awesome at explaining how things work and how everything is broken down.
I never really understood why diabetics take longer to heal than others and are more prone to get infections before the wound heals properly. In the video, it was explained that diabetics heal slower because diabetes affects the white blood cells that help to fight off infections and it decreases oxygen that helps the wound to heal.
Yes, that was helpful. I have heard of people losing a leg from diabetes, but I never knew why it happened. My uncle is a lawyer and just a big bold personality and we have a difficult time getting him to stick with the program. He has had a couple of hard lessons though…you have to take diabetes very seriously. It will get you if you don’t. He has calmed down some and now that he is a grandfather he is taking better care of himself.
I never understood why either.
My dad has diabetes and he is very ignorant when it comes to healthy living with the disease. I find any information extremely helpful and try to share as much with him as possible. These videos are pretty informative.
yea these videos are extremely informative.help your dad as much as you can.dietary modifications has a very positive impact on diabees
I agree, the video is very infromative of how diabetes is and how diabetes can be treated by eating healthy diet foods.
My grandfather is a diabetic and I know a lot of this video is what the doctor told him to do. I know that he has to take gluclose tablets sometimes when he gets to feeling weak. He takes orange ones but that also make other flavors lie grape, apple and cherry. We also no longer use salt at my house. Instead we use a salt substitue. Not as good but you get used to it.
Its definitely tough to live with diabetes. My dad has it and he doesn’t really take care of himself. We all have a lot to learn and could stand to improve on healthier lifestyles.
Diabetes runs in my family. It would be wonderful to think that by making a few simple changes in diet, adding exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight that family members with diabetes could control it, and members that don’t have it might not be at such a high risk. The video gave simple ideas such as trying to lose 10 or 20 pounds if needed, get water instead of coke, and add more fruits and grains into our diet.
It runs in my family as well but not just this video but also this entire class has gave me some ideas to help control it and maybe even prevent it.
This is true! It’s helped me out a lot as well.
This video also helped me to learn what effects it has on the body. Even tho it does not run in my family, we can still get it.
My family also has a history of diabetes. I am really trying to get into better shape and add exercise into my daily routine. I have not been having any health problems yet and hopefully as long as I watch what I eat I will able to remain healthy and stay active.
I only know of one person in family that has diabetes. But I am also trying to do the same after taking this nutrition class. I want to set a good example for my daughter. I know I need to eat healthier and exercise more.
Im right there with ya. I’m taking percautions because my grandpa has diabetes and it skips a generation. So my siblings and cousins are perfect contestants for the diease. Its scary to think about.
My husband suffers with diabetes everyday and is very difficult for him and all of us. What’s more frustrating is how uneducated and unhealthy he STILL chooses to live!! But these videos I MADE him sit and watch them with me! PRAYERS NOW…