[Diabetes-Talk] Diabetes-Talk Digest, Vol 158, Issue 17pump for insulin
Melanie Torrance
melanietorrance at icloud.com
Wed Jan 20 23:35:19 UTC 2021
Bridget-Your post is not displaying on my phone. Could you post it again? Thanks, Melanie
Sent from Melanie's i phone
> On Jan 20, 2021, at 6:05 PM, Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter via Diabetes-Talk <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>
> We all have different abilities using an insulin pump nonvisually. Some have managed to access features on the pump even doing so nonvisually, while others have been more uncomfortable doing so. I can only speak from my personal experience.
>
> Years ago, when I started using a pump, the Cosmo was still an option. It was the best pump on the market for blind diabetics. It was not accessible, but it was the easiest to use, in my opinion, when using nonvisually. They stopped making the Cosmo years ago. I transitioned to the Animas, but then eventually, Animas was no longer made. I then transitioned to the Medtronic 530G. I recently transitioned off of pumps for reasons I will explain in a minute.
>
> With all these pumps, I managed to use on my own as a totally blind person, the exception being setting basal rates. Otherwise, I did not require daily or weekly sighted assistance. Certain features I memorized, and I had written directions for other features I did not use on a regular basis, but I could access following the written directions. I filled my cartridges, changed reservoirs and batteries, took boluses, set temp rates, etc. all without sighted assistance.
>
> The problem with the Tandem and Medtronic 630 and subsequent pumps was that there was no longer an external bolus button, called a touch bolus, and in order to unlock the screen, you never pressed on the same spot on the screen, making it virtually impossible to unlock nonvisually. The more recent Medtronic pumps have added touch bolus buttons again, but my understanding is that the lock screen function is still the same. This has been the biggest obstacle for using pumps nonvisually.
>
> Work-arounds are not accessibility, but many of us have been able to find work-arounds to independently use pumps nonvisually. At least until this lock screen feature happened.
>
> When my husband took a new job several months ago, I had to decide if I wanted to remain on the pump or not. The kids and I did not move immediately when he did, but when we finally did back in September, I decided to transition off the pump for now. Though I've managed to use my pump independently with little sighted assistance, I did have access to family and friends if I needed. Now, in a new city where we know no one, I made the call to transition off since if I needed the help, as infrequent as it was, I would have literally no one to call. My husband is also blind, and my kids are way too young to help. I switched back to pens, and I hate it. But for now, I'm more comfortable doing this so when it came time to set basal rates, which I have to change about every 3 months or so, or the couple of times a year I need help setting the time for daylight savings, etc., I wouldn't have to deal with finding someone to help.
>
> But dialing up a bolus is not difficult when you have the touch bolus or when pumps did not have this lockscreen feature, and you could access the bolus wizard in the menus. For 16 years I dialed my boluses independently and did not have any human errors.
>
> Some pumps are also working on apps that could potentially allow users to function the pump, including blind diabetics. But currently, these apps just give info about reservoir level and battery level, etc. It doesn't actually allow users, sighted or blind, to operate anything on the pump.
>
> I'm not personally a fan of the Omnipod because it's a somewhat bulbous device that sticks out a bit on the back of your arm. Not really my style, but perhaps I would get used to it. You do have to fill Omnipod reservoirs, and you use a personal diabetes manager (PDM) to control the Omnipod. Veronica can speak to the Omnipod, because she has used one for years now. I know she has accessed her PDM using Seeing AI, but I believe Omnipod has or is in the process of transitioning to a touch screen PDM, and I don't know what the accessibility of that is.
>
> Bridgit
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Diabetes-Talk <diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Patricia Maddix via Diabetes-Talk
> Sent: Wednesday, January 20, 2021 2:32 PM
> To: Diabetes Talk for the Blind <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org>
> Cc: Patricia Maddix <pmaddix at comcast.net>; Hope Hein <hwmhein at gmail.com>
> Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] Diabetes-Talk Digest, Vol 158, Issue 17pump for insulin
>
> Hope,
> That is the major problem with insulin pumps and they are not accessible for someone who does not have cited assistance. Several of us are taking part in a work group at the national Federation of the blind to work with the pump companies to get them to make the pumps accessible. This issue is a huge frustration. The soonest solution that I see on the horizon is a partnership between an organization called tide pool and the insulin pump company that makes Omni pod. I have been communicating with tide pool and just received another email from them this morning noting that in their recent submission for approval to FTA it will be the combination system of the tide pool app And the Omni pod pump system. At least one person at tide pool told me that the tide pool app is accessible to the blind and this app is supposed to allow you to control the pump directly from the app. But, that is all I know about it. For those of you who use the Omni pod, do they come preloaded with the insulin so that a blind person can just attach to the body or does it require some sighted assistance?
> The most current med Tronic pump, the 770, and the current tandem pump both have an external tactile button that allows you to give a meal time bolus safely by pressing the buttons. All other features of the pumps are totally in accessible to the blind.
> I have had opportunity to hold both of these pumps and play around with them with the sales rep and friends who use them. I have been wrestling with the issue of getting a new pump as my current one was out of warranty last September and the only way that this will be possible is to do it as a team effort with my husbands assistance. This does not make me feel safe for Independent. As my current med Tronic pump is still working and I can take a bolus by pushing the external buttons safely I am just going to keep doing what I’m doing for the time being. Encourage your doctors and other health professionals to advocate to the pump companies for accessible devices.
> Patricia
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
>> On Jan 20, 2021, at 4:42 AM, Hope Hein via Diabetes-Talk <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>
>> Hi all, I appreciate this list. Can you please advise me of an
>> insulin pump that a totally blind person can use. I have been giving
>> myself the shots and have to do four shots a day at this time. I’m
>> having difficulty because sometimes I hit a vein when I’m giving
>> myself the shots. So I spoke to my doctor‘s nurse about a pump and she
>> said that you have to dial in the amount of insulin you use and that
>> since I can’t see it I would have trouble with that. Any advice would
>> be helpful. I also appreciate all the nutrition information you guys
>> have can give and I have given
>>
>> Hope Hein
>>
>>>> On Jan 20, 2021, at 7:03 AM, diabetes-talk-request at nfbnet.org wrote:
>>>
>>> Send Diabetes-Talk mailing list submissions to
>>> diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org
>>>
>>> To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/diabetes-talk_nfbnet.org
>>> or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to
>>> diabetes-talk-request at nfbnet.org
>>>
>>> You can reach the person managing the list at
>>> diabetes-talk-owner at nfbnet.org
>>>
>>> When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific
>>> than "Re: Contents of Diabetes-Talk digest..."
>>>
>>>
>>> Today's Topics:
>>>
>>> 1. Re: Reading labels (Patricia Maddix) 2. Re: Reading labels
>>> (Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter)
>>>
>>>
>>> ---------------------------------------------------------------------
>>> -
>>>
>>> Message: 1
>>> Date: Tue, 19 Jan 2021 11:28:51 -0800
>>> From: Patricia Maddix <pmaddix at comcast.net>
>>> To: Diabetes Talk for the Blind <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org>
>>> Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] Reading labels
>>> Message-ID: <F2CCCD16-9FBD-48DA-B5E0-D3FF1A575A02 at comcast.net>
>>> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8
>>>
>>> Les,
>>> Great news! That is an amazing change and justThat is an amazing change in just two weeks. Did you ever figure out why the medication you were taking wasn?t working as well when you went on the higher dose?
>>> Patricia
>>>
>>> Sent from my iPhone
>>>
>>>>> On Jan 18, 2021, at 10:16 PM, Les Fitzpatrick via Diabetes-Talk <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>>>
>>>> ?I love these posts about diet it is really helping me I've know
>>>> what I should eat but since my wife and I got married she doesn't
>>>> know all this stuff so she encourages me to eat a lot of stuff that
>>>> I shouldn't have but since I've been on this list I've been able to
>>>> pretty much eat like I know I should, and now my blood sugar is
>>>> really coming down. When I got on this list a couple of weeks ago my
>>>> blood sugar was running almost 300 most of the time and now it is in
>>>> the low 100's it was 129 tonight. Than all of you for your
>>>> encouragement. I guess seeing other people succeed it's helping me to succeed as well. You guys are great.
>>>>
>>>> Les fitzpatrickPiano Technician
>>>> Ham call K5FPT
>>>>
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Diabetes-Talk <diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of
>>>> Sandi Ryan via Diabetes-Talk
>>>> Sent: Monday, January 18, 2021 8:37 PM
>>>> To: 'Diabetes Talk for the Blind' <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org>
>>>> Cc: sjryan2 at gmail.com
>>>> Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] Reading labels
>>>>
>>>> Hi Terri,
>>>>
>>>> I wanted to tell you that I am so impressed with what you have
>>>> accomplished, and how hard you have worked to improve things! Keep
>>>> up that good work! It's doing lots of good!
>>>>
>>>> I have just a few thoughts, and the advice you've received so far
>>>> has been excellent. Both Patricia and I are formerly registered
>>>> dietitians. And all the others who have given you advice are very
>>>> experienced in these issues!Stick with what you're doing and make additional changes as you can.
>>>>
>>>> Okay: You said you are craving candy. Perhaps changing up what kind
>>>> of candy you keep in your house could help. When I started cutting
>>>> back on "junk food" long ago, I decided to learn to like dark
>>>> chocolate. I didn't really like it in the beginning, and I learned
>>>> that my ability to eat it ended at about 70% cacao. But the
>>>> advantage to changing was that I could eat less and find it
>>>> satisfying, and I didn't keep reaching for that bag of old
>>>> favorites. In other words, I don't crave dark chocolate, but I like
>>>> it, and it satisfies the craving. Keeping the chocolate free of
>>>> other things, such as flavors, fillings, and such, keeps me from
>>>> beginning to crave the dark chocolate, too. I like buying small pieces of chocolate, or bars separated into squares, and I just plan to limit myself to one or two squares per day.
>>>> On most days, this is the only sweet treat I allow myself. Of
>>>> course, on special occasions, like my birthday, I eat whatever sweet treat I want.
>>>> Surprisingly, though, for the past several years, starting when my
>>>> husband and I stopped eating sugars and sweeteners except in very
>>>> small amounts, I no longer eat French Silk pie. I still love it in
>>>> theory, but truthfully, a couple of bites are about what I can eat
>>>> now. It's very sweet, and I'm no longer used to that and no longer crave it.
>>>>
>>>> One of the big reasons people snack is that they eat small amounts
>>>> at their meals, thinking that's healthier. But if you eat enough
>>>> food at meals, you don't need lots of snacks. Many days I do not eat
>>>> a snack. But each of your meals needs to include protein, fat, and
>>>> some carbohydrate. And really, don't skip meals. It just makes you hungrier before your next mealtime.
>>>>
>>>> As for fat, for years I limited my own to as little as possible, and
>>>> it did not keep me thin or healthy. In those days we dietitians were
>>>> taught that everyone's diet must be high-carb, high-fiber, and low-fat for good health.
>>>> When my husband and I lowered the sugars and other carbs in our
>>>> diets, we increased our fat intake to about 35-40% of our daily
>>>> calories. The surprise was that I immediately started losing weight,
>>>> and lost 25 pounds total--which put me at a weight that is healthy,
>>>> and I have had very little trouble keeping my weight there. We cook
>>>> with good fats, but also use some butter, because it tastes really
>>>> good in some foods. I find that I eat less of foods that aren't full
>>>> of altered ingredients. The way I put it is I'd rather have less of
>>>> the real thing that a lot of something so altered I no longer enjoy it.
>>>>
>>>> And let us know when we can help with other questions!
>>>>
>>>> Sandi
>>>>
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Diabetes-Talk <diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of
>>>> Terri Stimmel via Diabetes-Talk
>>>> Sent: Monday, January 18, 2021 5:48 AM
>>>> To: diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org
>>>> Cc: Terri Stimmel <icecreamlover76 at outlook.com>
>>>> Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] Reading labels
>>>>
>>>> Hello again everyone,
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> First of all, thank you to both Patricia, and Bridget, for your
>>>> great thoughts and advice. I really appreciate it. I appreciate the
>>>> time, effort, and care you put in to your responses. It really helps
>>>> me out, and I am quite sure it helps others as well. It helps me to
>>>> realize that I am truly not the only one who struggles.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Yes, I am working with a diabetes educator. Although, I will be
>>>> starting with a new one in May. I am hoping this will go well. The
>>>> one I had unfortunately moved out of state. I really liked her.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> For now, it is recommended that I not have more than 45 carbs per
>>>> meal, and no more than 15 carbs per snack. Also, only one, or two
>>>> snacks a day. But none if this is something I can manage. I am totally fine with all this.
>>>> It's something I want, and something I am most definitely trying to
>>>> do. They did say that treats and such, or ordering out is fine. But
>>>> like you said Bridget, just on the weekends. Something like that.
>>>> Which I like this as well, because then it isn't so much of a shock
>>>> to my system. But also, my boyfriend is being very supportive, and
>>>> tollerant of these changes I am making. I know it hasn't been all
>>>> that easy for him. I have had friends say that I should just worry
>>>> about myself. Just cook for myself, and not worry about him. But that's a lot easier said than done. I mean, he is my partner.
>>>> So for me it isn't just that simple. We have worked it out that if
>>>> he wants to make his own choices for breakfast and lunch, that's
>>>> fine. But since we enjoy having dinner together, then I want to
>>>> mostly be in charge of that. So I usually am. This is not to say he
>>>> doesn't have choices. But he knows that I am wanting to have less processed foods and such.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> I have been looking for recipes. I feel this is going pretty well.
>>>> Although it does get a bit overwhelming at times. I have also been
>>>> trying to pay attention to if I am really hungry or not. The lady I
>>>> was seeing did talk to me about this. She suggested rating my
>>>> feelings of hunger on a scale. Scales usually don't work for me. But
>>>> the concept makes sense to me, and has actually come in handy a lot.
>>>> I realized that I would snack when I really wasn't hungry at all.
>>>> For instance, when watching TV. Or if my boyfriend wanted a snack,
>>>> then I thought I did as well. When really I didn't. So this has definitely been helpful.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> I have tried hard to not beat myself up over making mistakes, or
>>>> eating something I know I really should avoid. This is very difficult for me.
>>>> So it is certainly a work in progress. My one problem is, I will
>>>> sometimes buy a bag of the fun-size packages of M&Ms. But when I
>>>> want one, I find myself eating 2 of them. Which then defeats the purpose of having a treat.
>>>> Also, I tend to think that if I just can manage to eat one pack,
>>>> that I can then do it almost every day. So this is a struggle for
>>>> me, and still needs work. I have quit purchasing things like oreos,
>>>> and peanut butter cups, because I couldn't just eat one at a time. I
>>>> figured if I couldn't do this, then I just don't need them in the house.
>>>> LOL!
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> So what is the recommended amount of sodium, for diabetics?
>>>>
>>>> Also, how do you know if something is considered low in sodium?
>>>>
>>>> Some of the labels I read are confusing to me. I've been looking at
>>>> some, trying to consider if I want to purchase them or not. For
>>>> instance, some Codiac cakes, frozen pancakes. I don't think I
>>>> spelled that properly. But hopefully you all will know what I meant.
>>>>
>>>> I am also looking at purchasing some tortillas. But I want to watch
>>>> what I get.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Also, should I be concerned with how much fat something has in it?
>>>>
>>>> I mean, with the sagerated fats? That's the ones to be concerned with, yes?
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> As for another food struggle I have, I struggle with knowing what I
>>>> might want to eat. I get very frustrated at times, when it comes to
>>>> making these decisions. Especially with breakfast, and lunch. So I
>>>> try skipping breakfast. Or for lunch, I will want to turn to junk,
>>>> or the not so healthy stuff. Or I might eat very little. So I
>>>> totally agree, and understand that we all have struggles when it
>>>> comes to food. And I am glad that we are not alone in this.
>>>>
>>>> Isn't it crazy how one of the things we need the most, can be such a
>>>> huge struggle, and stresser?
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Thanks again for all the wonderful help and support. I will keep you
>>>> all posted as to how things are going for me.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Terri
>>>>
>>>>>> On 1/17/2021 4:03 PM, Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter via Diabetes-Talk wrote:
>>>>> Terry,
>>>>>
>>>>> I know a lot of people will say watch calories, but honestly, if
>>>>> you're eating healthy, or healthier choices, calories are not as
>>>>> important. For diabetics, carbs and sodium will be the most
>>>>> important nutrition items to pay attention too. Plus, don't overwhelm yourself with this either.
>>>>>
>>>>> BTW, shop where you prefer. You can find healthy foods at Walmart
>>>>> just as much as anywhere else. Absolutely no issue shopping where you prefer.
>>>>>
>>>>> Eating out and having treats can be challenging for a lot of
>>>>> people. It's all about moderation. If you want, allow yourself a
>>>>> treat a couple of
>>>> times
>>>>> a week. Order a meal out on the weekend. Still stick to your carb
>>>>> counts
>>>> and
>>>>> meal sizes and all that, but diabetes is not about eliminating
>>>>> food, but learning how to adopt healthier ideas about food. Which
>>>>> really, all Americans need to do.
>>>>>
>>>>> A rule of thumb I learned years ago is to consider where my hunger
>>>>> is
>>>> coming
>>>>> from. When you feel hungry, truly get inside your body and think
>>>>> about
>>>> where
>>>>> the feeling is coming from. Does your stomach actually feel hungry?
>>>>> If
>>>> not,
>>>>> it's likely in your head, and you don't really need to eat at that moment.
>>>>> But if your stomach actually feels hungry and is grumbling and
>>>>> other signs of hunger, then you might need a snack. Also, drinking
>>>>> water can help with hunger.
>>>>>
>>>>> We all have our food struggles. We just need to learn what coping
>>>> mechanisms
>>>>> work for us. I've been super busy and stressed lately and inclined
>>>>> to eat very little in a day, which is not healthy either. I go and
>>>>> go and keep skipping meals, basically having only coffee and water
>>>>> all day. I'm trying to be better, but with so much going on, this
>>>>> is a problem of mine, and I need to do better. My point is that we all have unhealthy food habits.
>>>> Don't
>>>>> beat yourself up, just make small adjustments and learn what works
>>>>> for
>>>> you.
>>>>>
>>>>> Bridgit
>>>>>
>>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>>> From: Diabetes-Talk <diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of
>>>>> Terri Stimmel via Diabetes-Talk
>>>>> Sent: Sunday, January 17, 2021 2:38 PM
>>>>> To: diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org
>>>>> Cc: Terri Stimmel <icecreamlover76 at outlook.com>
>>>>> Subject: [Diabetes-Talk] Reading labels
>>>>>
>>>>> Hello everyone,
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> I hope all of you are doing well. Things are going pretty well with me.
>>>>> I am now off of my meal-time insulin. I am so very happy about this.
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> I am eating better. But I am also still struggling some. I find it
>>>> difficult
>>>>> to not want to order out. I also find it difficult to not want
>>>>> candy. So these are things I am working really hard on. But other
>>>>> than that, things seem much better. So this makes me feel really good.
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> I was wondering though, what sorts of things should I be watching
>>>>> for,
>>>> when
>>>>> reading labels?
>>>>>
>>>>> I know I of course need to watch the carbs.
>>>>>
>>>>> But what other things should I focus on?
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Any thoughts are appreciated. We shop at Walmart for most things. I
>>>>> would consider shopping other places. But Walmart is affordable for us.
>>>>> Plus, ours is set up so that we can have stuff delivered. This
>>>>> works quite well for us.
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Again, any thoughts are much appreciated.
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Thank you,
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Terri
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>> Diabetes-Talk mailing list
>>>>> Diabetes-Talk at nfbnet.org
>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/diabetes-talk_nfbnet.org
>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info
>>>>> for
>>>>> Diabetes-Talk:
>>>>>
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/diabetes-talk_nfbnet.org/bpollpete
>>>> r%40hotm
>>>>> ail.com
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>> Diabetes-Talk mailing list
>>>>> Diabetes-Talk at nfbnet.org
>>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/diabetes-talk_nfbnet.org
>>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info
>>>>> for
>>>> Diabetes-Talk:
>>>>>
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/diabetes-talk_nfbnet.org/icecreaml
>>>> over76%4
>>>> 0outlook.com
>>>>
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> Diabetes-Talk mailing list
>>>> Diabetes-Talk at nfbnet.org
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/diabetes-talk_nfbnet.org
>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info
>>>> for
>>>> Diabetes-Talk:
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/diabetes-talk_nfbnet.org/sjryan2%4
>>>> 0gmail.c
>>>> om
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> Diabetes-Talk mailing list
>>>> Diabetes-Talk at nfbnet.org
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/diabetes-talk_nfbnet.org
>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info
>>>> for
>>>> Diabetes-Talk:
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/diabetes-talk_nfbnet.org/lfitz50%4
>>>> 0gmail.c
>>>> om
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> Diabetes-Talk mailing list
>>>> Diabetes-Talk at nfbnet.org
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/diabetes-talk_nfbnet.org
>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for Diabetes-Talk:
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/diabetes-talk_nfbnet.org/pmaddix%4
>>>> 0comcast.net
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> ------------------------------
>>>
>>> Message: 2
>>> Date: Tue, 19 Jan 2021 14:24:13 -0600
>>> From: "Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter" <bkpollpeter at gmail.com>
>>> To: "'Diabetes Talk for the Blind'" <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org>
>>> Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] Reading labels
>>> Message-ID: <0c4501d6eea1$0df2a740$29d7f5c0$@gmail.com>
>>> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
>>>
>>> Sandy,
>>>
>>> Thanks for all your advice and wisdom. I've learned a lot from you. I
>>> appreciate your presence on this list.
>>>
>>> Bridgit
>>>
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Diabetes-Talk <diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of
>>> Sandi Ryan via Diabetes-Talk
>>> Sent: Monday, January 18, 2021 10:37 PM
>>> To: 'Diabetes Talk for the Blind' <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org>
>>> Cc: sjryan2 at gmail.com
>>> Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] Reading labels
>>>
>>> Hi Terri,
>>>
>>> I wanted to tell you that I am so impressed with what you have
>>> accomplished, and how hard you have worked to improve things! Keep up
>>> that good work! It's doing lots of good!
>>>
>>> I have just a few thoughts, and the advice you've received so far has
>>> been excellent. Both Patricia and I are formerly registered
>>> dietitians. And all the others who have given you advice are very
>>> experienced in these issues!Stick with what you're doing and make additional changes as you can.
>>>
>>> Okay: You said you are craving candy. Perhaps changing up what kind
>>> of candy you keep in your house could help. When I started cutting
>>> back on "junk food" long ago, I decided to learn to like dark
>>> chocolate. I didn't really like it in the beginning, and I learned
>>> that my ability to eat it ended at about 70% cacao. But the advantage
>>> to changing was that I could eat less and find it satisfying, and I
>>> didn't keep reaching for that bag of old favorites. In other words, I
>>> don't crave dark chocolate, but I like it, and it satisfies the
>>> craving. Keeping the chocolate free of other things, such as flavors,
>>> fillings, and such, keeps me from beginning to crave the dark
>>> chocolate, too. I like buying small pieces of chocolate, or bars separated into squares, and I just plan to limit myself to one or two squares per day.
>>> On most days, this is the only sweet treat I allow myself. Of course,
>>> on special occasions, like my birthday, I eat whatever sweet treat I want.
>>> Surprisingly, though, for the past several years, starting when my
>>> husband and I stopped eating sugars and sweeteners except in very
>>> small amounts, I no longer eat French Silk pie. I still love it in
>>> theory, but truthfully, a couple of bites are about what I can eat
>>> now. It's very sweet, and I'm no longer used to that and no longer crave it.
>>>
>>> One of the big reasons people snack is that they eat small amounts at
>>> their meals, thinking that's healthier. But if you eat enough food at
>>> meals, you don't need lots of snacks. Many days I do not eat a snack.
>>> But each of your meals needs to include protein, fat, and some
>>> carbohydrate. And really, don't skip meals. It just makes you hungrier before your next mealtime.
>>>
>>> As for fat, for years I limited my own to as little as possible, and
>>> it did not keep me thin or healthy. In those days we dietitians were
>>> taught that everyone's diet must be high-carb, high-fiber, and low-fat for good health.
>>> When my husband and I lowered the sugars and other carbs in our
>>> diets, we increased our fat intake to about 35-40% of our daily
>>> calories. The surprise was that I immediately started losing weight,
>>> and lost 25 pounds total--which put me at a weight that is healthy,
>>> and I have had very little trouble keeping my weight there. We cook
>>> with good fats, but also use some butter, because it tastes really
>>> good in some foods. I find that I eat less of foods that aren't full
>>> of altered ingredients. The way I put it is I'd rather have less of
>>> the real thing that a lot of something so altered I no longer enjoy it.
>>>
>>> And let us know when we can help with other questions!
>>>
>>> Sandi
>>>
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Diabetes-Talk <diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of
>>> Terri Stimmel via Diabetes-Talk
>>> Sent: Monday, January 18, 2021 5:48 AM
>>> To: diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org
>>> Cc: Terri Stimmel <icecreamlover76 at outlook.com>
>>> Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] Reading labels
>>>
>>> Hello again everyone,
>>>
>>>
>>> First of all, thank you to both Patricia, and Bridget, for your great
>>> thoughts and advice. I really appreciate it. I appreciate the time,
>>> effort, and care you put in to your responses. It really helps me
>>> out, and I am quite sure it helps others as well. It helps me to
>>> realize that I am truly not the only one who struggles.
>>>
>>>
>>> Yes, I am working with a diabetes educator. Although, I will be
>>> starting with a new one in May. I am hoping this will go well. The
>>> one I had unfortunately moved out of state. I really liked her.
>>>
>>>
>>> For now, it is recommended that I not have more than 45 carbs per
>>> meal, and no more than 15 carbs per snack. Also, only one, or two
>>> snacks a day. But none if this is something I can manage. I am totally fine with all this.
>>> It's something I want, and something I am most definitely trying to
>>> do. They did say that treats and such, or ordering out is fine. But
>>> like you said Bridget, just on the weekends. Something like that.
>>> Which I like this as well, because then it isn't so much of a shock
>>> to my system. But also, my boyfriend is being very supportive, and
>>> tollerant of these changes I am making. I know it hasn't been all
>>> that easy for him. I have had friends say that I should just worry
>>> about myself. Just cook for myself, and not worry about him. But that's a lot easier said than done. I mean, he is my partner.
>>> So for me it isn't just that simple. We have worked it out that if he
>>> wants to make his own choices for breakfast and lunch, that's fine.
>>> But since we enjoy having dinner together, then I want to mostly be
>>> in charge of that. So I usually am. This is not to say he doesn't
>>> have choices. But he knows that I am wanting to have less processed foods and such.
>>>
>>>
>>> I have been looking for recipes. I feel this is going pretty well.
>>> Although it does get a bit overwhelming at times. I have also been
>>> trying to pay attention to if I am really hungry or not. The lady I
>>> was seeing did talk to me about this. She suggested rating my
>>> feelings of hunger on a scale. Scales usually don't work for me. But
>>> the concept makes sense to me, and has actually come in handy a lot.
>>> I realized that I would snack when I really wasn't hungry at all. For
>>> instance, when watching TV. Or if my boyfriend wanted a snack, then I
>>> thought I did as well. When really I didn't. So this has definitely been helpful.
>>>
>>>
>>> I have tried hard to not beat myself up over making mistakes, or
>>> eating something I know I really should avoid. This is very difficult for me.
>>> So it is certainly a work in progress. My one problem is, I will
>>> sometimes buy a bag of the fun-size packages of M&Ms. But when I want
>>> one, I find myself eating 2 of them. Which then defeats the purpose of having a treat.
>>> Also, I tend to think that if I just can manage to eat one pack, that
>>> I can then do it almost every day. So this is a struggle for me, and
>>> still needs work. I have quit purchasing things like oreos, and
>>> peanut butter cups, because I couldn't just eat one at a time. I
>>> figured if I couldn't do this, then I just don't need them in the house.
>>> LOL!
>>>
>>>
>>> So what is the recommended amount of sodium, for diabetics?
>>>
>>> Also, how do you know if something is considered low in sodium?
>>>
>>> Some of the labels I read are confusing to me. I've been looking at
>>> some, trying to consider if I want to purchase them or not. For
>>> instance, some Codiac cakes, frozen pancakes. I don't think I spelled
>>> that properly. But hopefully you all will know what I meant.
>>>
>>> I am also looking at purchasing some tortillas. But I want to watch
>>> what I get.
>>>
>>>
>>> Also, should I be concerned with how much fat something has in it?
>>>
>>> I mean, with the sagerated fats? That's the ones to be concerned with, yes?
>>>
>>>
>>> As for another food struggle I have, I struggle with knowing what I
>>> might want to eat. I get very frustrated at times, when it comes to
>>> making these decisions. Especially with breakfast, and lunch. So I
>>> try skipping breakfast. Or for lunch, I will want to turn to junk, or
>>> the not so healthy stuff. Or I might eat very little. So I totally
>>> agree, and understand that we all have struggles when it comes to
>>> food. And I am glad that we are not alone in this.
>>>
>>> Isn't it crazy how one of the things we need the most, can be such a
>>> huge struggle, and stresser?
>>>
>>>
>>> Thanks again for all the wonderful help and support. I will keep you
>>> all posted as to how things are going for me.
>>>
>>>
>>> Terri
>>>
>>>>> On 1/17/2021 4:03 PM, Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter via Diabetes-Talk wrote:
>>>> Terry,
>>>>
>>>> I know a lot of people will say watch calories, but honestly, if
>>>> you're eating healthy, or healthier choices, calories are not as
>>>> important. For diabetics, carbs and sodium will be the most
>>>> important nutrition items to pay attention too. Plus, don't overwhelm yourself with this either.
>>>>
>>>> BTW, shop where you prefer. You can find healthy foods at Walmart
>>>> just as much as anywhere else. Absolutely no issue shopping where you prefer.
>>>>
>>>> Eating out and having treats can be challenging for a lot of people.
>>>> It's all about moderation. If you want, allow yourself a treat a
>>>> couple of
>>> times
>>>> a week. Order a meal out on the weekend. Still stick to your carb
>>>> counts
>>> and
>>>> meal sizes and all that, but diabetes is not about eliminating food,
>>>> but learning how to adopt healthier ideas about food. Which really,
>>>> all Americans need to do.
>>>>
>>>> A rule of thumb I learned years ago is to consider where my hunger
>>>> is
>>> coming
>>>> from. When you feel hungry, truly get inside your body and think
>>>> about
>>> where
>>>> the feeling is coming from. Does your stomach actually feel hungry?
>>>> If
>>> not,
>>>> it's likely in your head, and you don't really need to eat at that moment.
>>>> But if your stomach actually feels hungry and is grumbling and other
>>>> signs of hunger, then you might need a snack. Also, drinking water
>>>> can help with hunger.
>>>>
>>>> We all have our food struggles. We just need to learn what coping
>>> mechanisms
>>>> work for us. I've been super busy and stressed lately and inclined
>>>> to eat very little in a day, which is not healthy either. I go and
>>>> go and keep skipping meals, basically having only coffee and water
>>>> all day. I'm trying to be better, but with so much going on, this is
>>>> a problem of mine, and I need to do better. My point is that we all have unhealthy food habits.
>>> Don't
>>>> beat yourself up, just make small adjustments and learn what works
>>>> for
>>> you.
>>>>
>>>> Bridgit
>>>>
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Diabetes-Talk <diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of
>>>> Terri Stimmel via Diabetes-Talk
>>>> Sent: Sunday, January 17, 2021 2:38 PM
>>>> To: diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org
>>>> Cc: Terri Stimmel <icecreamlover76 at outlook.com>
>>>> Subject: [Diabetes-Talk] Reading labels
>>>>
>>>> Hello everyone,
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> I hope all of you are doing well. Things are going pretty well with me.
>>>> I am now off of my meal-time insulin. I am so very happy about this.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> I am eating better. But I am also still struggling some. I find it
>>> difficult
>>>> to not want to order out. I also find it difficult to not want
>>>> candy. So these are things I am working really hard on. But other
>>>> than that, things seem much better. So this makes me feel really good.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> I was wondering though, what sorts of things should I be watching
>>>> for,
>>> when
>>>> reading labels?
>>>>
>>>> I know I of course need to watch the carbs.
>>>>
>>>> But what other things should I focus on?
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Any thoughts are appreciated. We shop at Walmart for most things. I
>>>> would consider shopping other places. But Walmart is affordable for us.
>>>> Plus, ours is set up so that we can have stuff delivered. This works
>>>> quite well for us.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Again, any thoughts are much appreciated.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Thank you,
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Terri
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> _______________________________________________
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>>>
>>> ------------------------------
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>>> Subject: Digest Footer
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>>> ------------------------------
>>>
>>> End of Diabetes-Talk Digest, Vol 158, Issue 17
>>> **********************************************
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