Well the unthinkable has happened, this is really sucking at the moment, but life is like that on occasion. Last Friday, was called up to the office with my HR representative and the Project manager, you got to know when you get that call you know that it’s not for a big fat raise. In fact it was to be told that things on the engagement suck and that they are going to let everyone go on April 13, 2007 if they cannot place us within the company.
My first thoughts on this were anger as you can expect, I moved to Halifax for this job, I gave up a good job for what I thought was a great opportunity to learn and advance. Shame on me to think that any good could come from risking it all, like most folks who moved to Halifax, we are not trapped. If I don’t find an opportunity here, I either have to contract out and work away from my home or take a job that involves “Would you like to Super size that sir”.
It’s funny but when I look back at the last few years, good stuff gets balanced out by bad stuff. Its like accounting, you can’t have a good credit with out a bad credit. For example, my meeting Aingeal, that is the best thing that has happened to me, 1 year later, I get diagnosed with Diabetes. I graduate 3 rd in class from college find a good job with NEBS, My 20 year marriage comes to an end and I go into a 4 year depression.
Thanks to Aingeal who turned my life around YEAH I am glad she puts up with my stuff. For an almost 50 year old, I can be pretty child like at time. Hey better then acting my age anytime. Now for the third strike I come to Halifax for a job that I thought would rule them all, but it turns out I am going to get the shaft. Lesson learned, they can love you and pat you on the back, but watch when they pat you on the back you may not feel the kick me sign.
However, let’s turn this negativity around as I am going to say that I will not let myself get down, I choose to stay happy no matter what. If life turns out to hand you a bunch of lemons make lemon aid. This is going to be an opportunity for me to advance myself personally. One makes there own opportunity I did that to get to Halifax I will do it again to stay in Halifax.
My motivation is from within, and I refuse to give into the dark side. I can’t see myself as Darth Harry.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Sunday, February 25, 2007
This week
Interesting week in my life, Running is going great did 50K last week and started this week off with a fantastic 19K run. It was sunny in Halifax today a bit windy over the bridge but a very enjoyable 19K.
Had an interesting day on Saturday was invited to a discussion put on by the Canada Health Council to discuss Diabetes, Today and Tomorrow. It was a great day. They brought together about 30 people to discuss a range of topics on Diabetes. This included the statistics which are staggering. I did not realize that almost 14 Billion Dollars is spent on Diabetes alone.
Scary were our health care money is going. The focus was on Type II diabetes since it can be prevented in some cases. We discussed what we thought was good in our healthcare system and what was bad. It is amazing that the good things in Diabetes care is also part of the things we don’t do so well.
In my opinion the question education came out a lot. Not just as something that we do well but something that is weak. There is lots of information out there but how do people access the information. Are the Doctor and our health care professionals helping to get the info out? Not just to diabetes but to non-diabetics.
Its important to get the message out there, Diabetes is a big problem, as a Canadian Man or women you have a good chance to become diabetic at least 1in 3 if you are white. But if you are African Canadian you odds go up to 1 in 2 and if you are of aboriginal decent it’s almost 100% that you will get diabetes.
Canada has to get better about how we get the message about diabetes out to all people. Especially those at risk, it was no surprise that low income people are more subject to the disease then higher income people. We discussed the high cost of being healthy, it cost more to eat healthy and live healthy. If you don’t have the money it’s harder to choose foods that are better for you.
All in all I think the eight hours with the Canadian Health Counsel was time well spent. Let’s hope that in some small way I was able to help the future role of Canadian Health care for diabetes.
Had an interesting day on Saturday was invited to a discussion put on by the Canada Health Council to discuss Diabetes, Today and Tomorrow. It was a great day. They brought together about 30 people to discuss a range of topics on Diabetes. This included the statistics which are staggering. I did not realize that almost 14 Billion Dollars is spent on Diabetes alone.
Scary were our health care money is going. The focus was on Type II diabetes since it can be prevented in some cases. We discussed what we thought was good in our healthcare system and what was bad. It is amazing that the good things in Diabetes care is also part of the things we don’t do so well.
In my opinion the question education came out a lot. Not just as something that we do well but something that is weak. There is lots of information out there but how do people access the information. Are the Doctor and our health care professionals helping to get the info out? Not just to diabetes but to non-diabetics.
Its important to get the message out there, Diabetes is a big problem, as a Canadian Man or women you have a good chance to become diabetic at least 1in 3 if you are white. But if you are African Canadian you odds go up to 1 in 2 and if you are of aboriginal decent it’s almost 100% that you will get diabetes.
Canada has to get better about how we get the message about diabetes out to all people. Especially those at risk, it was no surprise that low income people are more subject to the disease then higher income people. We discussed the high cost of being healthy, it cost more to eat healthy and live healthy. If you don’t have the money it’s harder to choose foods that are better for you.
All in all I think the eight hours with the Canadian Health Counsel was time well spent. Let’s hope that in some small way I was able to help the future role of Canadian Health care for diabetes.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
New week horray
Another week has passed, with another 52K under my belt. The next LSD run is 19K, this will be the turning point in the Marathon Training as the mileage now gets heavier and works its way to 32K for a Sunday run. Yesterday I took a rest day and did a step class at Nubody’s the gym I joined. Man talk about sweat, I can run 16K without a major problems. Step up and down for 40 minutes and see the sweat fly.
I still have not really played with Carbs on the road, But will have to look at some fuel this week as we approach the longer runs. Gel’s are what I am going to try, Can’t wait! Yeah Right.
This weekend, I will be taking part of a Canadian Government road show on how I think the Government can improve the health care system for diabetics. Sounds great, so I started doing some research on various programs, many provinces have there own “plans”. This surprised me as I did not realize that Provinces such as SK had a plan of there own. ON is working on their’s, not sure on other provinces, these plans seem to try to mention Diabetes and how bad it is to be uncontrolled. That’s the good part.
I think the bad part is the provinces and feds suck at getting the message where it belongs, to the schools and homes. Mind you a lot of schools have started realizing that they need to offer healthier choices in there Cafeteria’s. Many schools have dropped the traditional coke and Pepsi machines for water and juice. The French Fries are gone except maybe on Friday. This is a good start.
But more is needed; we need to make prevention and control affordable. Go to the supermarket, If you are on a budget 2L of No name type pop 79 cents vs. 2.89$ for 2 liters of milk. So families by pop instead of milk, even breads you can by a generic white bread loaf for 1.30$ but a good multigrain flax bread 2.20$ almost 2x the cost.
Fresh veggies, while I don’t begrudge a farmer making a living, but let’s face it in Canada in January there is no local produce. All is imported from the US or South America. It’s a wonder we eat veggies at all here in Canada.
Eating healthy is a commitment not only to eating right, but also means you will spend more on groceries, is it worth it? In my opinion it would be healthier eating means far less risks later on in life with diabetes, heart diseases and cancers.
The government needs to get radical in there approach to healthcare. You can’t say Smoking is bad for you and the effect on the healthcare system is draining, when you turn around and tax the heck out of cigarettes for millions of dollars in tax revenue. On the one had the government does not want you to smoke because its unhealthy, but on the other side is that it generates millions of dollars in tax revenue so we can’t out right ban it.
Maybe the government the government needs to intervene at the school level. Screening kids for diabetes and other diseases. If a kid is overweight, maybe the public health folks need to go into the home, not so much as a punishment but to help educate the parents that a huge plate of spaghetti is not a healthy meal on its on. I was appalled the other day when I was shopping and this 12 year old (+/-) was huge, he weighted 350lbs if not more. His mother in the cart had nothing but JUNK. Does she not realize that her picky eating kid is slowly being killed by her? She needs to be educated about how to feed her son. At 12 years old it’s her responsibility to ensure his health. That is the crux isn’t it the government can’t be held responsible for an unhealthy public. Should they even try?
Good question in my opinion.
Harry
I still have not really played with Carbs on the road, But will have to look at some fuel this week as we approach the longer runs. Gel’s are what I am going to try, Can’t wait! Yeah Right.
This weekend, I will be taking part of a Canadian Government road show on how I think the Government can improve the health care system for diabetics. Sounds great, so I started doing some research on various programs, many provinces have there own “plans”. This surprised me as I did not realize that Provinces such as SK had a plan of there own. ON is working on their’s, not sure on other provinces, these plans seem to try to mention Diabetes and how bad it is to be uncontrolled. That’s the good part.
I think the bad part is the provinces and feds suck at getting the message where it belongs, to the schools and homes. Mind you a lot of schools have started realizing that they need to offer healthier choices in there Cafeteria’s. Many schools have dropped the traditional coke and Pepsi machines for water and juice. The French Fries are gone except maybe on Friday. This is a good start.
But more is needed; we need to make prevention and control affordable. Go to the supermarket, If you are on a budget 2L of No name type pop 79 cents vs. 2.89$ for 2 liters of milk. So families by pop instead of milk, even breads you can by a generic white bread loaf for 1.30$ but a good multigrain flax bread 2.20$ almost 2x the cost.
Fresh veggies, while I don’t begrudge a farmer making a living, but let’s face it in Canada in January there is no local produce. All is imported from the US or South America. It’s a wonder we eat veggies at all here in Canada.
Eating healthy is a commitment not only to eating right, but also means you will spend more on groceries, is it worth it? In my opinion it would be healthier eating means far less risks later on in life with diabetes, heart diseases and cancers.
The government needs to get radical in there approach to healthcare. You can’t say Smoking is bad for you and the effect on the healthcare system is draining, when you turn around and tax the heck out of cigarettes for millions of dollars in tax revenue. On the one had the government does not want you to smoke because its unhealthy, but on the other side is that it generates millions of dollars in tax revenue so we can’t out right ban it.
Maybe the government the government needs to intervene at the school level. Screening kids for diabetes and other diseases. If a kid is overweight, maybe the public health folks need to go into the home, not so much as a punishment but to help educate the parents that a huge plate of spaghetti is not a healthy meal on its on. I was appalled the other day when I was shopping and this 12 year old (+/-) was huge, he weighted 350lbs if not more. His mother in the cart had nothing but JUNK. Does she not realize that her picky eating kid is slowly being killed by her? She needs to be educated about how to feed her son. At 12 years old it’s her responsibility to ensure his health. That is the crux isn’t it the government can’t be held responsible for an unhealthy public. Should they even try?
Good question in my opinion.
Harry
Friday, February 16, 2007
Rant
Rant on:
I was wandering through the food court after coming out of the gym this morning. It’s no wonder why are life expectancies are going down. Here I am a Type II diabetic who struggles to maintain a balance diet so that my BS (Blood Sugar) does not rise into a dangerous count.
So on occasion I find myself mad that I am diabetic and others who are bigger and more obese are not. Foods that other folks take for granted I either have to deny myself or eat so little of it’s hardly worth putting on the plate. Take for instance the gentleman who I saw this morning eating his breakfast.
His breakfast consisted of 500ML 1% chocolate milk, 2 Slices of bacon, 2 eggs, 2 slices of toast with butter, a ½ plate of hash browns. His breakfast weighs in at 993 calories. For a diabetic we are looking at 3 proteins 6 fats, 9 carbs. It’s a wonder why we are going diabetic.
I looked at that and said that is how I used to eat, Ok I am skinny and eat like a bird, Breakfast was 6oz Light Hot chocolate 9g carbs, 3 melba toast with 2 tbsp of peanut butter and a Orange. which amounts to about 2+ carbs 1fat and and a bit of protein
Lunch was 2 small sugarless cookies and about 12 oz of homade veggie soup cream. 3 carbs, 1 fat and a little protien. I have now eating two meals, ran 5.5KM at lunch did 20 minutes on the eliptical machine and I still have not eaten as much as that guy for his breakfast.
Heres to long life.
Rant off
I was wandering through the food court after coming out of the gym this morning. It’s no wonder why are life expectancies are going down. Here I am a Type II diabetic who struggles to maintain a balance diet so that my BS (Blood Sugar) does not rise into a dangerous count.
So on occasion I find myself mad that I am diabetic and others who are bigger and more obese are not. Foods that other folks take for granted I either have to deny myself or eat so little of it’s hardly worth putting on the plate. Take for instance the gentleman who I saw this morning eating his breakfast.
His breakfast consisted of 500ML 1% chocolate milk, 2 Slices of bacon, 2 eggs, 2 slices of toast with butter, a ½ plate of hash browns. His breakfast weighs in at 993 calories. For a diabetic we are looking at 3 proteins 6 fats, 9 carbs. It’s a wonder why we are going diabetic.
I looked at that and said that is how I used to eat, Ok I am skinny and eat like a bird, Breakfast was 6oz Light Hot chocolate 9g carbs, 3 melba toast with 2 tbsp of peanut butter and a Orange. which amounts to about 2+ carbs 1fat and and a bit of protein
Lunch was 2 small sugarless cookies and about 12 oz of homade veggie soup cream. 3 carbs, 1 fat and a little protien. I have now eating two meals, ran 5.5KM at lunch did 20 minutes on the eliptical machine and I still have not eaten as much as that guy for his breakfast.
Heres to long life.
Rant off
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Principle #7, You get Two Hours and Two Days from a workout.
Principle #7, You get Two Hours and Two Days from a workout.
I have noticed especially in the longer runs that while running the BS do not change significantly over 16 – 20K distances. But as your muscles work they are using the glucose stored in the cells. Over the run you deplete this store of energy. Where I see the big effect of Blood Sugar drop is 1 – 2hours after the run.
For those first two hours after your run, your body is busy moving the Blood Glucose to the muscles cells. After the initial 2 hours your body will still have a higher then normal need for Carbs. Theory says that the effect of this can be felt up to two days after your work out.
Imagine exercising the minimum 30 minutes a day and your body using more Blood sugar then you would if you did not exercise. Think about what this means if you exercise you use more sugar from your blood. This will lower your blood sugar level. How do you replace blood sugar, why eating of course.
Sunday is treat day for me, after I run. I do a very long run on Sunday, my blood sugar nose dives afterwards. Imagine being able to sit in front of a plate of Nacho’s and eating them guilt free and knowing that it is not going to affect your blood sugar. In fact chance are at least for me that in 2 – 3 hours I will be eating again trying to maintain my Blood sugar level in the normal range.
So in conclusion, diet is not enough, some sort of physical exercise is needed. CDA, recommends 30 minutes five times per week. Check with your doctor about starting a plan. Also you will have to find the exercise that is right for you.
Harry
I have noticed especially in the longer runs that while running the BS do not change significantly over 16 – 20K distances. But as your muscles work they are using the glucose stored in the cells. Over the run you deplete this store of energy. Where I see the big effect of Blood Sugar drop is 1 – 2hours after the run.
For those first two hours after your run, your body is busy moving the Blood Glucose to the muscles cells. After the initial 2 hours your body will still have a higher then normal need for Carbs. Theory says that the effect of this can be felt up to two days after your work out.
Imagine exercising the minimum 30 minutes a day and your body using more Blood sugar then you would if you did not exercise. Think about what this means if you exercise you use more sugar from your blood. This will lower your blood sugar level. How do you replace blood sugar, why eating of course.
Sunday is treat day for me, after I run. I do a very long run on Sunday, my blood sugar nose dives afterwards. Imagine being able to sit in front of a plate of Nacho’s and eating them guilt free and knowing that it is not going to affect your blood sugar. In fact chance are at least for me that in 2 – 3 hours I will be eating again trying to maintain my Blood sugar level in the normal range.
So in conclusion, diet is not enough, some sort of physical exercise is needed. CDA, recommends 30 minutes five times per week. Check with your doctor about starting a plan. Also you will have to find the exercise that is right for you.
Harry
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
My Story,
While I did not break any speed records here in the Halifax NS area, I crossed the finish line “looking good,” thanks to John Stanton’s (founder and CEO of the Running Room) sage advice the Friday before the Bluenose International Marathon. My mantra during my races is to finish my events “looking good.” So far so good, I have completed three 10K events and one half marathon looking real good. Right now I am getting ready for my first marathon.
What makes these runs special is that in 2005 I weighed 300 lb, and my exercise was moving from the computer and going to the kitchen to grab junk food. Following my marriage separation, I found myself addicted to an online game and gained 70 lb. For four years I lived a lifestyle consisting of sleep, work and sitting in front of the computer for 16 hours a day.
I was pretty pathetic. I became a lonely guy whose life revolved around an unreal virtual world. I knew I had to change and meet some people. I made a connection at a concert with my current partner Aingeal (Angela). We each needed a good friend; today we are great friends as well as partners in everything we do.
Through her urging, I went for a physical. The doctor gave it to me straight: I was Type II diabetic and if I did not change my life, it would be significantly shortened. My blood pressure was 140/90, which is high, and my blood sugar was 9.5 A1HC (below 6.5 is considered normal). He gave me a month to turn myself around or he would put me on some medication.
Together Aingeal and I read every available book on Type II diabetes. I started on the American Diabetes Association’s food plan for 1600 calories a day. I followed their meal plan for healthy eating and added walking and peddling on a stationary bike into the mix. I started losing about 2 lb a week. My walks consisted of a walk around the block at lunch time.
A month passed and I went into the doctor’s office almost 10 lb lighter and my blood pressure was down a bit. The good news was my blood sugar went from 9+ to normal. Through healthy eating and exercise, I was able to control my blood sugar.
The lunch time walk soon became two to three times around the block over the course of the summer, and my 12 minutes of biking turned into 40 minute sessions. It was not long before I put on a pair of running shoes and started walking around the block. Starting out I barely made 10 minutes a day. Slowly increasing time and speed, the pounds came off. Exercise was a great way to take control of my sugars.
I finally hit my goal weight in February of 2006 and was running up to 5K every day. One of my co-workers told me about the Bluenose 10K he ran last year, which started me thinking whether I could run 10K. Off to the Running Room for a new pair of shoes and a nice pair of winter running pants, and my training began. I was a runner in my youth, so I knew how to get myself ready. In early April I finally convinced myself that 10K was attainable. After seeing the fun groups from the Running Room, I decided to start running with the Wednesday and Sunday practice runs.
Running with the 10K group was great motivation, and improved my self-confidence. Not only did I run the 10K in subsequent weeks, I ran the 14.5K long run. I knew I could run 10K in the Bluenose with the confidence of finishing. Not only did I finish, I finished with a time of 61:43 minutes.
Of course, after finishing the 10K event at the Bluenose I figured, if I could run 10K I could run a half marathon (21.1km). I registered for a half marathon clinic and away I went. In October 2007 on the beautiful island of PEI. I ran the half marathon in Charlottetown PEI. Life does not get any better then a fall weekend in PEI. Finished the half marathon in 2:06:37, to Aingeal I am a hero.
So here I am today, John Stanton was right—I am an athlete. I live and breath a healthy lifestyle, and I am not afraid of Type II diabetes; it something I learned to live with everyday. It can be controlled, I am proof of that. The only person ever holding me back is me, No know boundaries and its amazing what can be accomplished.
My plans for 2007 include the Bluenose Marathon in Halifax (May), the Ghost Run in Quebec City (October) and for Jan. 2008 I plan to be in Orlando doing the Goofy at Disney. This event is a half marathon on Saturday followed by a full marathon on Sunday.
What makes these runs special is that in 2005 I weighed 300 lb, and my exercise was moving from the computer and going to the kitchen to grab junk food. Following my marriage separation, I found myself addicted to an online game and gained 70 lb. For four years I lived a lifestyle consisting of sleep, work and sitting in front of the computer for 16 hours a day.
I was pretty pathetic. I became a lonely guy whose life revolved around an unreal virtual world. I knew I had to change and meet some people. I made a connection at a concert with my current partner Aingeal (Angela). We each needed a good friend; today we are great friends as well as partners in everything we do.
Through her urging, I went for a physical. The doctor gave it to me straight: I was Type II diabetic and if I did not change my life, it would be significantly shortened. My blood pressure was 140/90, which is high, and my blood sugar was 9.5 A1HC (below 6.5 is considered normal). He gave me a month to turn myself around or he would put me on some medication.
Together Aingeal and I read every available book on Type II diabetes. I started on the American Diabetes Association’s food plan for 1600 calories a day. I followed their meal plan for healthy eating and added walking and peddling on a stationary bike into the mix. I started losing about 2 lb a week. My walks consisted of a walk around the block at lunch time.
A month passed and I went into the doctor’s office almost 10 lb lighter and my blood pressure was down a bit. The good news was my blood sugar went from 9+ to normal. Through healthy eating and exercise, I was able to control my blood sugar.
The lunch time walk soon became two to three times around the block over the course of the summer, and my 12 minutes of biking turned into 40 minute sessions. It was not long before I put on a pair of running shoes and started walking around the block. Starting out I barely made 10 minutes a day. Slowly increasing time and speed, the pounds came off. Exercise was a great way to take control of my sugars.
I finally hit my goal weight in February of 2006 and was running up to 5K every day. One of my co-workers told me about the Bluenose 10K he ran last year, which started me thinking whether I could run 10K. Off to the Running Room for a new pair of shoes and a nice pair of winter running pants, and my training began. I was a runner in my youth, so I knew how to get myself ready. In early April I finally convinced myself that 10K was attainable. After seeing the fun groups from the Running Room, I decided to start running with the Wednesday and Sunday practice runs.
Running with the 10K group was great motivation, and improved my self-confidence. Not only did I run the 10K in subsequent weeks, I ran the 14.5K long run. I knew I could run 10K in the Bluenose with the confidence of finishing. Not only did I finish, I finished with a time of 61:43 minutes.
Of course, after finishing the 10K event at the Bluenose I figured, if I could run 10K I could run a half marathon (21.1km). I registered for a half marathon clinic and away I went. In October 2007 on the beautiful island of PEI. I ran the half marathon in Charlottetown PEI. Life does not get any better then a fall weekend in PEI. Finished the half marathon in 2:06:37, to Aingeal I am a hero.
So here I am today, John Stanton was right—I am an athlete. I live and breath a healthy lifestyle, and I am not afraid of Type II diabetes; it something I learned to live with everyday. It can be controlled, I am proof of that. The only person ever holding me back is me, No know boundaries and its amazing what can be accomplished.
My plans for 2007 include the Bluenose Marathon in Halifax (May), the Ghost Run in Quebec City (October) and for Jan. 2008 I plan to be in Orlando doing the Goofy at Disney. This event is a half marathon on Saturday followed by a full marathon on Sunday.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Sunday
Phew, 16K down this week at a good steady 6:40/K, not bad really. Tired this weekend as we have some big testing at work. So I have been working all weekend as well. No rest for the wicked I suppose.
Think I will keep things short today as I am a bit carb deprived at the moment so i am going to have a little bit of pizza, I don't typical eat pizza but after 16K I think I will have 1/2 slice, I have apples, smoked gouda and pastacio's for a bit of a snack while at work.
I worked yesterday and they had pre-ordered pizza, my boss who is usually good about insuring I have a salad and diet pop order, seemed to forget. Good thing I had stopped by the grocery store and picked up a nice mixed green salad, Pears, and a handfull of cashews. As you can see being a diabetic you can't take food for granted, those huge slices of pizza are worth 3 carbs easy, and when you are sitting on your butt in front of a computer they have no where to go.
It's been a great week for the first week of fundraising, this week is looking really good as well. Here's to all you who have pictched in a loonie or two. Those who have not donated a loonie you know who you are.
Harry
Think I will keep things short today as I am a bit carb deprived at the moment so i am going to have a little bit of pizza, I don't typical eat pizza but after 16K I think I will have 1/2 slice, I have apples, smoked gouda and pastacio's for a bit of a snack while at work.
I worked yesterday and they had pre-ordered pizza, my boss who is usually good about insuring I have a salad and diet pop order, seemed to forget. Good thing I had stopped by the grocery store and picked up a nice mixed green salad, Pears, and a handfull of cashews. As you can see being a diabetic you can't take food for granted, those huge slices of pizza are worth 3 carbs easy, and when you are sitting on your butt in front of a computer they have no where to go.
It's been a great week for the first week of fundraising, this week is looking really good as well. Here's to all you who have pictched in a loonie or two. Those who have not donated a loonie you know who you are.
Harry
Friday, February 9, 2007
If there is one person you remember who would that be
If there is one person you can remember that influenced you as a kid who would that be? Well I found an old teacher who was a great influcence to me when I was going to high school. I went to George S. Henry in Don Mills Ontario from 1972 - 1976. Well I was doing some research on the internet and I came across a name George Gluppe
George Gluppe, has trained a couple of olympic atheletes in the the late part 1990's and early 2000's. Ok you say what so thrilling about that. Well he was one of my first coaches in Highschool. George Gluppe played a significant role in my sports develpment when I went to George S. Henry Secondary School in Toronto(Don Mills). Of all the teachers after 30 years he is the only one who's name I can still remember. Track and Field, Wrestling and just an all around great teacher.
They don't make teachers like that anymore, he is long retired and living in BC now. Still coaching and I imagine running. I think that when I run Bluenose in May I am going to dedicate the run to him. To prove that yes, after 30 years 1 teacher stands out and left something significant behind. So after 31 one years Here's to George Gluppe, Coach, Teacher and now I hope Friend.
The next race is for you George. If anybody out there is from George S Henry from the 1970's and remembers George let me know if you want to drop him a line.
Harry
George Gluppe, has trained a couple of olympic atheletes in the the late part 1990's and early 2000's. Ok you say what so thrilling about that. Well he was one of my first coaches in Highschool. George Gluppe played a significant role in my sports develpment when I went to George S. Henry Secondary School in Toronto(Don Mills). Of all the teachers after 30 years he is the only one who's name I can still remember. Track and Field, Wrestling and just an all around great teacher.
They don't make teachers like that anymore, he is long retired and living in BC now. Still coaching and I imagine running. I think that when I run Bluenose in May I am going to dedicate the run to him. To prove that yes, after 30 years 1 teacher stands out and left something significant behind. So after 31 one years Here's to George Gluppe, Coach, Teacher and now I hope Friend.
The next race is for you George. If anybody out there is from George S Henry from the 1970's and remembers George let me know if you want to drop him a line.
Harry
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Principle #6 Weight Training
Principle #6
Weight Training helps diabetics
A lot of runners shy away from weight training. But muscle mass takesup glucose, and it can do it without insulin during or for a whileafter exercise. Use the weight training to strengthen your upper bodyand add support for the joints in your legs.
Weight Training helps diabetics
A lot of runners shy away from weight training. But muscle mass takesup glucose, and it can do it without insulin during or for a whileafter exercise. Use the weight training to strengthen your upper bodyand add support for the joints in your legs.
Thursday, Almost the end of the week
A balmy -18C here in Halifax, but sunny, a good steady 8K into work today. I will pass the 50K/week mark this week. Very nice indeed.
First I got two more donations for my silent auction Yesterday. First donation comes from Friend, and talented Musican Terry Young, his solo cd, Letting Go of the Weight of the World. Please check out his web site at http://www.terryyoung.ca/
Terry also plays for A great Canadian Folk band called Tangelfoot, if you have seen them you no what I am talking about, if you get a chance to see them do. http://www.tanglefootmusic.com
Second, Dr. Neil Benard has donated a copy of Dr. Neal Barnard’s Program for Reversing Diabetes (2007: Rodale)
http://www.nealbarnard.org/
"A diagnosis of type 2 diabetes is often a grim precursor to heart disease, kidney failure, stroke, nervous system damage, and other life-threatening complications. But a new book by nutrition researcher Neal Barnard, M.D., says it doesn’t have to be that way. Based on his own recently published research, Dr. Neal Barnard's Program for Reversing Diabetes outlines a powerful new nutritional approach—a low-fat vegan diet—that can help many patients cut their blood sugars, improve their insulin sensitivity, and reduce—if not eliminate—their medications".
Don't be left out I will take donations for the silent auction or of course credit cards via the web site in my signature. Or contact me at my blog and I will tell you how to send a check or money order.
Help The Diabetic Runner go Goofy in 2008.
Many thanks to those who have donated items and cash, but there is a long way to go.
Next up Muffin Friday here at work I am baking muffins and hopefully someone will donate a buck for the one they take.
First I got two more donations for my silent auction Yesterday. First donation comes from Friend, and talented Musican Terry Young, his solo cd, Letting Go of the Weight of the World. Please check out his web site at http://www.terryyoung.ca/
Terry also plays for A great Canadian Folk band called Tangelfoot, if you have seen them you no what I am talking about, if you get a chance to see them do. http://www.tanglefootmusic.com
Second, Dr. Neil Benard has donated a copy of Dr. Neal Barnard’s Program for Reversing Diabetes (2007: Rodale)
http://www.nealbarnard.org/
"A diagnosis of type 2 diabetes is often a grim precursor to heart disease, kidney failure, stroke, nervous system damage, and other life-threatening complications. But a new book by nutrition researcher Neal Barnard, M.D., says it doesn’t have to be that way. Based on his own recently published research, Dr. Neal Barnard's Program for Reversing Diabetes outlines a powerful new nutritional approach—a low-fat vegan diet—that can help many patients cut their blood sugars, improve their insulin sensitivity, and reduce—if not eliminate—their medications".
Don't be left out I will take donations for the silent auction or of course credit cards via the web site in my signature. Or contact me at my blog and I will tell you how to send a check or money order.
Help The Diabetic Runner go Goofy in 2008.
Many thanks to those who have donated items and cash, but there is a long way to go.
Next up Muffin Friday here at work I am baking muffins and hopefully someone will donate a buck for the one they take.
Wednesday, February 7, 2007
Let me provide some insight to what I eat as Diabetic, I am carb restricted only eating enough carbs to fuel myself for 2- 3 hours. I eat 5 – 6x per day smaller meals consisting of 1 -2 carbs depending on my blood sugar. Staying away from candy, potato chips, French fries, as I am often fond of saying, “I remember those foods”. Now I eat a healthy diet. You too can eat a healthy diet, today we will begin some discussions around healthy eating choices.
Time to stop here and talk about eating habits, obesity is one of the main triggers of Type II diabetes. In Men over the age of 45, if your waist is over 40” you are at risk if you are a women your waist should not exceed 35”. Another measure is your BMI. This stands for Body Mass Index; it is a correlation between your height and weight, if you are over 25 you are at risk.
With that being said, if you are a runner or work out regularly your BMI might be higher. The BMI is a good measure if you do little or no physical activity a week. Want to work your BMI out head over to http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/bmicalc.htm there is a calculator there.
We learn as a diabetic that food can be basically lumped into groups. These groups are Carbohydrates, Fats, Proteins and Sugars. If you want to live a healthy lifestyle a balance of these groups are needed. Sugar as you can imagine is just that, simple sugars basically anything that ends in –ose. These are high on the GI and digest very quickly and get into the blood stream.
As a diabetic we have to restrict those to maybe 2 x 5g per day. So if you are diabetic your favorite brand of Candy bar is OUT. There is diet candy out there and is excellent. But not calorie free, my advice as a diabetic AVOID it if you can, if you must have something with sugar in it make sure you eat with something that is lower on the GI scale so it digest slower.
Fats, watch your fats not all fats are equal, cooking try to use a cold pressed Olive oil or even an oil spray to minimize oils. Use butter instead of margarine when looking at foods by low-fat yogurts’ and dairy products. Limit your fats at your meals; avoid butter on your toast. Watch when you buy processed foods light foods often are a trade off, low fat usually means high sugar, low sugar means high fats. Avoid processed foods where you can.
Proteins can come from a variety of sources including meat, fish, fowl and soya. We do not need a lot of protein maybe 30% of are calorie needs. How big a portion of meat should you eat, if its bigger then a deck of cards it’s most likely to much, figure on 4-5 oz.. Raw that is a portion at meal time. Salmon is a great choice, not only for protein but for those Omega 3-6-9 fats.
Carbohydrates are the biggest part of our diets, 50% of our diet should be carbohydrates. A carbohydrate comes in all kinds of forms, Grain, Fruit, Veggies, Beans, and yes those evil Sugars. But of course we avoid those. When choosing a Carbohydrate we should be looking at 10 x 15g per day which will give you about 900 Calories.
A normal man needs only 1800 calories a day if he does not exercise. Some examples of what constitutes a Carbohydrate, 1 Cup of milk, ½ cup of cooked rice/pasta/bean, 1 medium apple, 1 small baked potato, 1 slice of whole wheat bread and ¼ of a bagel, one cup of most vegetables and ½ cup of Fruit juice. Want to know more check out http://www.diabetes.org/nutrition-and-recipes/nutrition/foodpyramid.jsp this is a good site provided by the ADA.
For those who like the use the “Diet” word, throw it away. Refer to your eating habits as healthy eating. There is no such thing as a Diabetic diet, just healthy eating. Balance your meals and you will live healthier life styles. I think we will need to talk about what the term GI means. But that is another day.
I want to look at a typical breakfast and see how fast a normal breakfast adds up in terms of food choices. For example you get up Sunday morning and have this for breakfast at your favorite restaurant.
4oz. of orange Juice = 1 carb
2 slices of toast with Butter and Full sugar jam 2.5 - 3 carb + .5 fat
2 slices of bacon - 2 fat choices Sorry not a good protein choice.
2 eggs – 2 protein exchange = 2oz of meat
3 small pancakes with syrup- 3 carbs if not more or maybe hash browns fried in oil
Coffee with 2 sugars and cream -1
So we are looking at 6 carbs just for breakfast, considering we should be looking at 6 – 11 a day we just had are full compliment of carbs in one meal. It’s a wonder why society is becoming more obese. Not to mention the Fat in the butter, bacon and cream in are coffee. The above breakfast is not a great way to start a day.
For me typically when I go out for breakfast, I will have: there are only 2 carbs and a bit in the breakfast below. We don’t need a breakfast like above.
1 slice of brown toast buttered
2 eggs
2 slices of bacon
Usually will have ½ cup of potatoes or exchange for 2 slices of brown toast.
Coffee with milk and artificial sugar.
You can see the big difference in the Meals, smaller meal, eating healthy means smaller portions and making choices about the foods we eat.
This is only a very basic look at foods, I will get into Food exchanges and GI (glycemic index) later.
Harry Jacobs
The diabetic Runner.
Time to stop here and talk about eating habits, obesity is one of the main triggers of Type II diabetes. In Men over the age of 45, if your waist is over 40” you are at risk if you are a women your waist should not exceed 35”. Another measure is your BMI. This stands for Body Mass Index; it is a correlation between your height and weight, if you are over 25 you are at risk.
With that being said, if you are a runner or work out regularly your BMI might be higher. The BMI is a good measure if you do little or no physical activity a week. Want to work your BMI out head over to http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/bmicalc.htm there is a calculator there.
We learn as a diabetic that food can be basically lumped into groups. These groups are Carbohydrates, Fats, Proteins and Sugars. If you want to live a healthy lifestyle a balance of these groups are needed. Sugar as you can imagine is just that, simple sugars basically anything that ends in –ose. These are high on the GI and digest very quickly and get into the blood stream.
As a diabetic we have to restrict those to maybe 2 x 5g per day. So if you are diabetic your favorite brand of Candy bar is OUT. There is diet candy out there and is excellent. But not calorie free, my advice as a diabetic AVOID it if you can, if you must have something with sugar in it make sure you eat with something that is lower on the GI scale so it digest slower.
Fats, watch your fats not all fats are equal, cooking try to use a cold pressed Olive oil or even an oil spray to minimize oils. Use butter instead of margarine when looking at foods by low-fat yogurts’ and dairy products. Limit your fats at your meals; avoid butter on your toast. Watch when you buy processed foods light foods often are a trade off, low fat usually means high sugar, low sugar means high fats. Avoid processed foods where you can.
Proteins can come from a variety of sources including meat, fish, fowl and soya. We do not need a lot of protein maybe 30% of are calorie needs. How big a portion of meat should you eat, if its bigger then a deck of cards it’s most likely to much, figure on 4-5 oz.. Raw that is a portion at meal time. Salmon is a great choice, not only for protein but for those Omega 3-6-9 fats.
Carbohydrates are the biggest part of our diets, 50% of our diet should be carbohydrates. A carbohydrate comes in all kinds of forms, Grain, Fruit, Veggies, Beans, and yes those evil Sugars. But of course we avoid those. When choosing a Carbohydrate we should be looking at 10 x 15g per day which will give you about 900 Calories.
A normal man needs only 1800 calories a day if he does not exercise. Some examples of what constitutes a Carbohydrate, 1 Cup of milk, ½ cup of cooked rice/pasta/bean, 1 medium apple, 1 small baked potato, 1 slice of whole wheat bread and ¼ of a bagel, one cup of most vegetables and ½ cup of Fruit juice. Want to know more check out http://www.diabetes.org/nutrition-and-recipes/nutrition/foodpyramid.jsp this is a good site provided by the ADA.
For those who like the use the “Diet” word, throw it away. Refer to your eating habits as healthy eating. There is no such thing as a Diabetic diet, just healthy eating. Balance your meals and you will live healthier life styles. I think we will need to talk about what the term GI means. But that is another day.
I want to look at a typical breakfast and see how fast a normal breakfast adds up in terms of food choices. For example you get up Sunday morning and have this for breakfast at your favorite restaurant.
4oz. of orange Juice = 1 carb
2 slices of toast with Butter and Full sugar jam 2.5 - 3 carb + .5 fat
2 slices of bacon - 2 fat choices Sorry not a good protein choice.
2 eggs – 2 protein exchange = 2oz of meat
3 small pancakes with syrup- 3 carbs if not more or maybe hash browns fried in oil
Coffee with 2 sugars and cream -1
So we are looking at 6 carbs just for breakfast, considering we should be looking at 6 – 11 a day we just had are full compliment of carbs in one meal. It’s a wonder why society is becoming more obese. Not to mention the Fat in the butter, bacon and cream in are coffee. The above breakfast is not a great way to start a day.
For me typically when I go out for breakfast, I will have: there are only 2 carbs and a bit in the breakfast below. We don’t need a breakfast like above.
1 slice of brown toast buttered
2 eggs
2 slices of bacon
Usually will have ½ cup of potatoes or exchange for 2 slices of brown toast.
Coffee with milk and artificial sugar.
You can see the big difference in the Meals, smaller meal, eating healthy means smaller portions and making choices about the foods we eat.
This is only a very basic look at foods, I will get into Food exchanges and GI (glycemic index) later.
Harry Jacobs
The diabetic Runner.
Tuesday, February 6, 2007
Principle #5, HAVE FUN
First let me thank Fishhog from the Running Room Forums for the first cash donation for Team Diabetes, its is greatly appreciated. Also would like to thank Ian Blummer and his publisher for kicking in 3 copies of Dummies guide to Type II Diabetes for Canadians.
This week I will break the 50K per week mark, this is quite a milestone in my trainning for the Bluenose. I am really excited about running this year, its taken me 25 years to get here but I am going to run my marathon.
Also going to be running the Cabot Trail Relay thanks to the kind folks that recruited me from Ontario. This is a great run and a lot of fun, Cape Breton is a part of the country that everyone should see. Not by foot maybe but driving.
This all leads nicely into todays Principle #5 Have fun.
Well that’s an easy principle, why do something if it does not provide some joy or fun. Running started out for me as a way to control blood sugar, but it has become so much more in the last year. Racing is a way to show off what I have done. It is the icing on the cake (which I can’t eat anyway). But the Bling is nice.
I often say when we are out on Sunday running that LSD that we should be having fun. Training should not be a chore but a choice. I like the feeling of doing something that I can do. Maybe I am not fast but boy I get there in the end.
So have fun, if you are not having fun running, try something else. Swimming, step classes, aerobics, Biking or even just a good old fashion walk around the block. But stay healthy.
The diabetic runner
Harry Jacobs
PS. if you want to make a donation Via snail mail, please email me at harryjacobs@eastlink.ca and ask for an address
This week I will break the 50K per week mark, this is quite a milestone in my trainning for the Bluenose. I am really excited about running this year, its taken me 25 years to get here but I am going to run my marathon.
Also going to be running the Cabot Trail Relay thanks to the kind folks that recruited me from Ontario. This is a great run and a lot of fun, Cape Breton is a part of the country that everyone should see. Not by foot maybe but driving.
This all leads nicely into todays Principle #5 Have fun.
Well that’s an easy principle, why do something if it does not provide some joy or fun. Running started out for me as a way to control blood sugar, but it has become so much more in the last year. Racing is a way to show off what I have done. It is the icing on the cake (which I can’t eat anyway). But the Bling is nice.
I often say when we are out on Sunday running that LSD that we should be having fun. Training should not be a chore but a choice. I like the feeling of doing something that I can do. Maybe I am not fast but boy I get there in the end.
So have fun, if you are not having fun running, try something else. Swimming, step classes, aerobics, Biking or even just a good old fashion walk around the block. But stay healthy.
The diabetic runner
Harry Jacobs
PS. if you want to make a donation Via snail mail, please email me at harryjacobs@eastlink.ca and ask for an address
Monday, February 5, 2007
Week 4 of Marathon Training
Greetings, well week 4 of my marathon training is over. Last week I ran a total of 48KM, with a long run of 13K. Since there was snow on the ground yesterday running pace was a touch slower then normal. Next week the kilometers start to build as we are going to be doing 16K.
I also will be helping the Learn to Run Clinic at the Running Room here in Halifax. Will be leading some of the runs, this will be fun to help those who are just starting out the adventure of running. Helping new runners will be rewarding as it helps keep me motivated.
While I do not have any money in the pot for Team Diabetes yet, I have two great donations for my silent auction for May. First Marlin Keesler who ran 50 marathons in 50 States donated to Family signed copies of his book “Our Life on the Run: a Story of Running 50 Marathons in 50 States–A Family Quest, Thanks Marlin.
Second John Stanton owner and CEO of the Running Room, kicked in some great items, these include a signed copy of his book, running room Hat, shirt and socks. He also through in a voucher for a clinic for one lucky person, does not get any better then that.
Still waiting to hear if Lance Armstrong responds as well as Stephen Furst (National Lampoons Animal House, Babylon 5) and Halle Berry (X-Men), the latter two have diabetes themselves. I am hoping that all three will throw something in for the Auction
Please donate through the website https://ocp.diabetes.ca/pledge/cspledge.asp?prId=td&oId=940684&tId=5916 any amount would be appreciated. Tomorrow we will pick up on principle #5 of running.
The Diabetic Runner
Harry Jacobs
I also will be helping the Learn to Run Clinic at the Running Room here in Halifax. Will be leading some of the runs, this will be fun to help those who are just starting out the adventure of running. Helping new runners will be rewarding as it helps keep me motivated.
While I do not have any money in the pot for Team Diabetes yet, I have two great donations for my silent auction for May. First Marlin Keesler who ran 50 marathons in 50 States donated to Family signed copies of his book “Our Life on the Run: a Story of Running 50 Marathons in 50 States–A Family Quest, Thanks Marlin.
Second John Stanton owner and CEO of the Running Room, kicked in some great items, these include a signed copy of his book, running room Hat, shirt and socks. He also through in a voucher for a clinic for one lucky person, does not get any better then that.
Still waiting to hear if Lance Armstrong responds as well as Stephen Furst (National Lampoons Animal House, Babylon 5) and Halle Berry (X-Men), the latter two have diabetes themselves. I am hoping that all three will throw something in for the Auction
Please donate through the website https://ocp.diabetes.ca/pledge/cspledge.asp?prId=td&oId=940684&tId=5916 any amount would be appreciated. Tomorrow we will pick up on principle #5 of running.
The Diabetic Runner
Harry Jacobs
Friday, February 2, 2007
Principle #4, Be Prepared
Before we start on today's principle I just want to mention that I am now signed up with Team Diabetes to run in the 2008 Disney Goofy Challenge in Orlando Florida. This event is a two day event which features a 1/2 Marathon on Saturday then a full marthon sunday. I am doing this with Team Diabetes to raise money and awareness. So please if you have 25 - 50$ or what ever you can affored head to:
https://ocp.diabetes.ca/pledge/cspledge.asp?prId=td&oId=940684&tId=5916
Please help me help the Canadian Diabetes Association Raise money for a cure.
Well today we take a page out of the Boy Scout's Motto, "Be Prepared". This is good advice not just for us Diabetic but for regular runners. Run safe and smart and be prepared to deal with a problem on the road. So lets get to today's principle of running.
1. Carry ID, seems silly to point this out, but how many of us go out running with no ID, I know I do. What happens if you have a problem or accident are lying on the ground. Consider a Medic Alert braclet if you are diabetic, or if not maybe a dog tag type identification. That way they can get in touch with someone if there is a problem
2. Let someone know your route and how long you are going to be. I always let my Girl Friend now how long I am going to be and what route I am taking. If you do collapse at least someone will know where to start looking for you.
3. For us Type II's carry A gel, life savers or even a packet of sugar. One never knows when you are going to bottom out and need a quick Jolt of Sugar.
4. Water, for those long runs carry a fuel belt with water bottles. It also has a puch for those Gel's and other Treats.
5. Carry a cell phone or at least a quarter. If you need a ride, you can call one.
6. Be seen, where bright colours and reflective clothing especially at night.
7. If you listen to music, keep the music down so you can still hear traffic and ambient sound. That way you can hear the car or truck coming when you are thinking of darting across the road.
8. Obey the traffic lights, even if the cars don't, I know that cars often have trouble figuring out what that big 8 sided red sign with the word STOP on it means, so anticipate those drives don't assume he has seen you. Here in Halifax drivers tend to be aggressive with lights and stop sighns. So don't assume red means stop. To them its merely a suggestion.
9. Carry your test strips if you feel yourself going low, test and snack.
10. Have fun, be courtesy to other folks on the road and pavements.
The Diabetic Runner
Harry jacobs
https://ocp.diabetes.ca/pledge/cspledge.asp?prId=td&oId=940684&tId=5916
Please help me help the Canadian Diabetes Association Raise money for a cure.
Well today we take a page out of the Boy Scout's Motto, "Be Prepared". This is good advice not just for us Diabetic but for regular runners. Run safe and smart and be prepared to deal with a problem on the road. So lets get to today's principle of running.
1. Carry ID, seems silly to point this out, but how many of us go out running with no ID, I know I do. What happens if you have a problem or accident are lying on the ground. Consider a Medic Alert braclet if you are diabetic, or if not maybe a dog tag type identification. That way they can get in touch with someone if there is a problem
2. Let someone know your route and how long you are going to be. I always let my Girl Friend now how long I am going to be and what route I am taking. If you do collapse at least someone will know where to start looking for you.
3. For us Type II's carry A gel, life savers or even a packet of sugar. One never knows when you are going to bottom out and need a quick Jolt of Sugar.
4. Water, for those long runs carry a fuel belt with water bottles. It also has a puch for those Gel's and other Treats.
5. Carry a cell phone or at least a quarter. If you need a ride, you can call one.
6. Be seen, where bright colours and reflective clothing especially at night.
7. If you listen to music, keep the music down so you can still hear traffic and ambient sound. That way you can hear the car or truck coming when you are thinking of darting across the road.
8. Obey the traffic lights, even if the cars don't, I know that cars often have trouble figuring out what that big 8 sided red sign with the word STOP on it means, so anticipate those drives don't assume he has seen you. Here in Halifax drivers tend to be aggressive with lights and stop sighns. So don't assume red means stop. To them its merely a suggestion.
9. Carry your test strips if you feel yourself going low, test and snack.
10. Have fun, be courtesy to other folks on the road and pavements.
The Diabetic Runner
Harry jacobs
Thursday, February 1, 2007
Type II Diabetes What is it?
Today we are going to take a step back and look at what Type II diabetes is and how it effects us. There are two types of Diabetes, Type I, which is where the pancreas does not produce any Insulin. These Diabetics must take Insulin to move glucose from the blood into the bodies tissues.
In type II diabetes, glucose is not taken up normally from the blood into body tissues. The tissues are insulin resistant. Initially the pancreas is able to compensate for this extra blood glucose by increasing insulin production. Eventually, the pancreas cannot supply enough insulin to meet the body's demand, and blood sugars begin to rise. This early rise in blood sugars is known as impaired glucose tolerance(IGT). Diabetes will develop in 1% to 5% of individuals per year with IGT. (http://www.lakeside.ca/Patient_Info/diabetes_typeII.htm).
There is medication to help reduce the insulin resistance, but this must be paired with changes in your lifestyle. Medications have come a long way but is not a subsitute for Healthy Diet and exercise. Without a major change in your lifestyle there will be dire consequences to your health.
Signs and symptoms of type II diabetes include excessive thirst, frequent urination (especially at night), and increased appetite. Blurry vision and numbness in the toes or fingers may also occur. Most patients feel tired and may have slow-healing sores. Many individuals have no symptoms early in their disease. Type II diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in working adults in the United States. It is also a leading diagnosis of patients with end-stage renal disease who are receiving dialysis. It is a major cause of amputations and places patients at increased risk for coronary heart disease.
When I was diagnosed, my doctor told me how luck I was to be be diagnosed by him. He went on to say that in most cases the first diagnoses for Diabetes in men my age was when I was in the hospital for my first heart attack or stroke. Diabetes was my doing, nobody made me get fat or lazy. I had not seen a doctor for 7 years up to that point, so if you have been putting that physical off, call the doctor now and get one done.
All Diabetics should follow a low-fat, low-calorie diet. Perform Aerobic exercise at least 150 minuts per week (ADA recommendation) under physician guidance is beneficial. Many oral medications are now available for the treatment of diabetes, each with its own benefits and risks. Finally, insulin may be used for patients whose diabetes is not well controlled despite all the above measures. Insulin may also be temporarily used for patients who are sick or undergoing surgery.
Risk factors for heart disease must be controlled. Blood cholesterol, blood pressure, and body weight should be normalized. Cigarette smoking must be discontinued. Complications of diabetes must also be prevented. An annual eye examination by an ophthalmologist is recommended for all patients with type II diabetes. A urine test for protein is performed once a year. A foot examination is conducted regularly to detect early nerve damage.
Who's at risk for diabetes, Type II diabetes also tends to run in families. In fact there seems to be even stronger evidence for some kind of genetic cause for Type II than for Type I diabetes. Type II is more common among Asian, Hispanic, Native and African Americans.Although Type II diabetes usually develops after age 40, about half of all people diagnosed with the disease are older than 55. This may be because as people age, they tend to become more sedentary and to gain weight. Eating too much food and being inactive can make you obese and you are more likely to develop Type II diabetes if you are obese. Obesity is, by far, the greatest risk factor for this kind of diabetes.Where the weight is distributed seems to be a factor, too. If you tend to have an apple-shaped body in which you store fat around the tummy, you are more at risk for Type II diabetes. Those with a pear shape in which fat is stored in the hips are somewhat less at risk.(http://www.lifeclinic.com/focus/diabetes/risk.asp)
If you are at risk with diabetes, diet and exercise are found to help stave off the onset and symptoms. Type 2 Diabetes can be delayed or prevented. There is consistent evidence that 'at-risk' people can slow the onset and fight the disease with a regimin of rigorous exercise (30 minutes a day/5 days a week) and a balanced low sugar diet (with a goal of losing 2 to 7 percent body weight and avoiding trigger foods).(http://www.treatmentsfor.net/2006/06/how-to-prevent-diabetes/)
I hope this has been informative it is a very high level discussion on what diabetes is and how to prevent the disease. This is by no means a complete look or discussion, just an overview that hopefully will raise ones awareness and begin to ask questions.
The Diabetic Runner
Harry Jacobs
In type II diabetes, glucose is not taken up normally from the blood into body tissues. The tissues are insulin resistant. Initially the pancreas is able to compensate for this extra blood glucose by increasing insulin production. Eventually, the pancreas cannot supply enough insulin to meet the body's demand, and blood sugars begin to rise. This early rise in blood sugars is known as impaired glucose tolerance(IGT). Diabetes will develop in 1% to 5% of individuals per year with IGT. (http://www.lakeside.ca/Patient_Info/diabetes_typeII.htm).
There is medication to help reduce the insulin resistance, but this must be paired with changes in your lifestyle. Medications have come a long way but is not a subsitute for Healthy Diet and exercise. Without a major change in your lifestyle there will be dire consequences to your health.
Signs and symptoms of type II diabetes include excessive thirst, frequent urination (especially at night), and increased appetite. Blurry vision and numbness in the toes or fingers may also occur. Most patients feel tired and may have slow-healing sores. Many individuals have no symptoms early in their disease. Type II diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in working adults in the United States. It is also a leading diagnosis of patients with end-stage renal disease who are receiving dialysis. It is a major cause of amputations and places patients at increased risk for coronary heart disease.
When I was diagnosed, my doctor told me how luck I was to be be diagnosed by him. He went on to say that in most cases the first diagnoses for Diabetes in men my age was when I was in the hospital for my first heart attack or stroke. Diabetes was my doing, nobody made me get fat or lazy. I had not seen a doctor for 7 years up to that point, so if you have been putting that physical off, call the doctor now and get one done.
All Diabetics should follow a low-fat, low-calorie diet. Perform Aerobic exercise at least 150 minuts per week (ADA recommendation) under physician guidance is beneficial. Many oral medications are now available for the treatment of diabetes, each with its own benefits and risks. Finally, insulin may be used for patients whose diabetes is not well controlled despite all the above measures. Insulin may also be temporarily used for patients who are sick or undergoing surgery.
Risk factors for heart disease must be controlled. Blood cholesterol, blood pressure, and body weight should be normalized. Cigarette smoking must be discontinued. Complications of diabetes must also be prevented. An annual eye examination by an ophthalmologist is recommended for all patients with type II diabetes. A urine test for protein is performed once a year. A foot examination is conducted regularly to detect early nerve damage.
Who's at risk for diabetes, Type II diabetes also tends to run in families. In fact there seems to be even stronger evidence for some kind of genetic cause for Type II than for Type I diabetes. Type II is more common among Asian, Hispanic, Native and African Americans.Although Type II diabetes usually develops after age 40, about half of all people diagnosed with the disease are older than 55. This may be because as people age, they tend to become more sedentary and to gain weight. Eating too much food and being inactive can make you obese and you are more likely to develop Type II diabetes if you are obese. Obesity is, by far, the greatest risk factor for this kind of diabetes.Where the weight is distributed seems to be a factor, too. If you tend to have an apple-shaped body in which you store fat around the tummy, you are more at risk for Type II diabetes. Those with a pear shape in which fat is stored in the hips are somewhat less at risk.(http://www.lifeclinic.com/focus/diabetes/risk.asp)
If you are at risk with diabetes, diet and exercise are found to help stave off the onset and symptoms. Type 2 Diabetes can be delayed or prevented. There is consistent evidence that 'at-risk' people can slow the onset and fight the disease with a regimin of rigorous exercise (30 minutes a day/5 days a week) and a balanced low sugar diet (with a goal of losing 2 to 7 percent body weight and avoiding trigger foods).(http://www.treatmentsfor.net/2006/06/how-to-prevent-diabetes/)
I hope this has been informative it is a very high level discussion on what diabetes is and how to prevent the disease. This is by no means a complete look or discussion, just an overview that hopefully will raise ones awareness and begin to ask questions.
The Diabetic Runner
Harry Jacobs
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