My endo last week told me that weight gain was just a simple matter of calories in and calories out. I brought in my concern that I'd gained about eight pounds in the last three months without changing diet or exercise excessively. I worked really hard to lose weight last year, I don't want to start seeing the scale creep up and feel out of control.

But apparently, it's just a simple matter of calories in and calories out.

I just don't believe her. I know she has a point. That yes, weight gain often happens when you are consuming more than you are expending. But that isn't the entire picture...especially for insulin dependent diabetics.

  (READ MORE)

It's my time...to have the best of both worlds.

The last week has been filled with high numbers. Consistent results in the 300's. Morning numbers in the 170's and higher. Only two lows, brought on by extensive Humalog use. 217 is not a pleasant average to look at.

I'm positive that I know exactly why these numbers are all so high. Which frustrates me (the reason, not the knowing). A bad mix of birth control pills and Accutane. Both have side effects like high blood sugar or blood sugar changes.

I'd definitely say these were high and definitely changed. And I'm very annoyed. I've raised my Lantus to 31 units in the evening, which has brought lower numbers for today. So I'll leave it at 31 units for the next day or two in order to see how it's working long term. (READ MORE)

Friday was my endo check up. It's the second appointment that I've had with the new doctor. And I'm still incredibly pleased with how it's going. She is nearly everything that I could ask for in an endo, especially at this point in my life.

I spent about an hour with her, reviewing my logbook and discussing my issues. The best part is that she doesn't make me feel any more guilty than I already do for not doing things 100% all the time with my diabetes. She's understanding and accepting.

We talked about my post-breakfast highs for quite awhile. Everything from trying a lower carb ratio (done, still see highs with nasty lows after) to the types of foods I eat for breakfast. She's on board with my next suggestion of going on Symlin.

  (READ MORE)

It's my time...to rejuvenate my life.

November is always a crazy month for me. First, it's my birthday month. Second, it's also like 5 of my friends' birthday month. Third, it's Thanksgiving! Fourth, it's the busiest month in school as projects, papers, and exams take place all right before final exam season in December. Fifth, it's American Diabetes Month!

So here we are at the 2nd already...wasn't it just September last week? Sheesh...this year is flying by faster than I can even say it's flying by. I have lots of plans for American Diabetes Month. And I'm definitely excited to start checking some things off the list while exploring some new fun ideas.

  (READ MORE)

It's my time...to prioritize in my own way.

You may have noticed that diabetes hasn't been my first priority here lately. Not only is school speeding by faster than I can possibly keep up, my other health conditions are facing a lot of changes. Changes that I'm so ready for, but also not prepared for at the moment.

First, I'm starting birth control today after going off the progesterone almost two months ago. I'm hoping that the birth control will help with the premenstrual symptoms that I experience (like cramping, joint pain, headaches, and fatigue), without leaving lasting side effects (like weight gain, stroke, or pulmonary embolism). It took a lot to make the decision to go on it again, but I've made the decision and now I'm excited to see the results.

  (READ MORE)

Weaning off then completely stopping the progesterone has been interesting. I've definitely felt my old symptoms come back, like I mentioned last week. A drop in mood, fatigue, and some of the joint pain are the main issues. But there have also been positive changes.

Like the level of pre-period pelvic pain didn't start the usual two weeks out. Of course, my period could be another two weeks away since they are incredibly irregular. But so far, I've only had maybe 2 days of pelvic pain as opposed to a usual 5-10 days. If I could limit it without progesterone, the endometriosis surgery might completely clear whatever else is causing the pain. We'll have to wait to see about that one though.

  (READ MORE)