Ask the Diabetes Educator Archive

Q:

I have been diagnosed with diabetes. I'm 51 and weigh approximately 150 lb. I was on oral medication for about two months, but noticed I felt lousy about 4-5 hours after taking it in the mornings. I am now trying to control it with diet and walking. I noticed since coming off, that my glucose readings are between 90 and 128. Should I be concerned? What's considered too low or high?

A:

You are on a good path now without medication; controlling diabetes through lifestyle changes is quite possible in many cases. As you continue on this course, you will notice even better and more stable control. Without other complications, a fasting blood sugar under 100 is preferable; 126 mg/dl is the fasting blood sugar that denotes diabetes. It is also good to take a comprehensive multivitamin, one that is hypoallergenic. There are several other nutritional supplements and herbals being studied for positive impact on blood sugar control. Remember to stay well hydrated! Water works!!