Type one/metformin weight loss

sophiebowness1

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Hi, I'm 19 and I've been a type on diabetic since the age of 15 the past week I've been started on metformin as well as my insulin pump due to a resistance to my insulin, I'm really struggling to lose weight I've been cutting down on carb and increased exercise however cannot seem to control my weight, does anyone have any ideas thanks x


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noblehead

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Have you spoken with a dietitian, as part of your diabetes care checks you are entitled to be seen by one if your struggling with weight issues, ask your DSN to put your name forward.
 

noblehead

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I think so I've only ever seen the one in four years, my clinic is a very small one

Perhaps the one you are waiting to see is the diabetes specialist, some dietitians now are DAFNE trained and can advise on insulin dosages too when adjusting diets.
 

noblehead

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Diabetes specialist? Really stupid question what's that?/QUOTE]

No question is stupid, some dietitians are trained to deal with specific conditions and specialise in this field, so one might have a special interest in diabetes and another in conditions such as Crohn's disease and Ulcerative Colitis.
 

noblehead

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I did do but lost over 2 stone a few years back and have managed to keep that weight off, like anyone else if I ate and drank to excess I'd soon but it back on so I just eat 3 meals a day and don't snack, most days I exercise for 60-90 minutes (dog walking/cycling) and that really helps.
 

jack412

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cut your carbs if you must and this will lose body weight
it's important to keep your protein and fat at the right level and don't cut these, don't go below fat 20% and protein 20% of recommended calorie intake
the main thing is not to run your BG high by missing insulin and losing weight because you aren't well.

being a teletubbie I put myself on a LCHF diet of 20% carb 60% fat and 20% protein
you could start with carb 40%. fat 40%. protein 20% and see how you go
http://www.dietdoctor.com/lchf

I use this free program to keep track of everything
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/

[ eat fat lose weight http://wellnessmama.com/743/guide-to-fats/ ]
 
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daisymoomoo

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I find the myfitnesspal app is great for calculating carbs as well, really keeps me on track when i'm not at home.
It can be tough getting ratios right as far as diabetes is concerned, i've always struggled with weight, have more control now i'm counting carbs, but try and keep a balanced diet.
 

Spiker

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You will need to slowly bring your total daily insulin amount down as you reduce your food intake to lose weight. If you don't do this, you will experience cravings and hypos, either of which can easily defeat your weight loss. Ideally you need to slightly reduce your total insulin dose the same day or the night before you start to reduce your food intake (primarily, your carbs).

As you progress in losing weight you will need to continue gradually reducing your total insulin intake. Partly this will be because your body weight is less, partly because your insulin sensitivity will improve, but mainly it's because you are eating fewer carbs. If you don't do this progressive reduction in insulin you will struggle to lose weight as a T1. But obviously don't overdo it. Test more regularly than usual while dieting, and be mindful of your basal dose and your various insulin ratios - insulin to carb ratio and insulin correction ratio. These will all need to change - but gradually.
 
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