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01/20/12 07:26 PM

"are carbs affecting my neuropathy endocrinolgist says no carbs i`m too sensitive is that possible ?"
Asked By: aarond  

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i`m 54 6ft 280# &losing 3 yrs ago i started braking out in sweets had to change shirt 3x aday atleast 7-10 got pnemonia&plura infussion 19 days in hospital have copd cad high blood pressure spinal stenosos degerative osteothitis primary doc did want to say i had diabettes neurologist sent me for glucose tolorance at 1hr i fell over had chest pains heart test said ok fasting level about 127 a1c 6.8 got metor levels 80 to 100 with no carbs with any carbs up to 190 & i`llhave pain in neck or lower back orhips legs lf knee endocrinolagist says no carbs & that i suffer for low sugar very dizzie at times past out 6-10 totaled co. truck blurred vision go to therapy puts me in bed for a day did sleep study find outcome 1-23 metformin 500mg x2 mobic7.7x1cymbalta 20mgx1gabapentin 300mg x2 furosemide 20x3 metoprolol 50mgx2 pravastatin 20mg x1 &325 aspirin also what ever i eat stomick swells hurts lots of gas must eat ever 2hrs some ed

Expert Answers (1)

01/25/12 12:01 PM

About 60-70% of people with diabetes have some kind of nerve damage. Diabetic (or peripheral) neuropathy is a condition where you lose feeling in your feet, which may lead to infection, ulceration and eventually amputation. It is therefore very important to try to control blood sugars (through diet, exercise and medication management when applicable) in order to reduce the chances of developing neuropathy. If you already are suffering from this painful disorder, there are several things you can do to help control your neuropathy.

Following a low carb diet can help improve your blood sugar control AND help improve your painful neuropathy symptoms. A high blood sugar (and elevated A1C) will lead to further nerve damage and progression of your neuropathy. Please make sure that you are eating an adequate amount of protein and fiber, and that you minimize the amount of simple and refined carbs in your meal plan. Refined and simple carbs (ie cookies, fruit juices, baked goods and candy) will raise your blood sugars, triglyceride levels and weight. Lower glycemic carbs like non starchy vegetables, whole grains (in moderation), and a moderate amount of fruits, coupled with proteins throughout the day will help balance your blood sugar levels. Healthy fats such as avocado, unsalted nuts and nut butters (such as unsalted/natural peanut butter or almond butter) will also be a great addition to your diet. Remember to control your portions, in order to help manage your body weight. Increasing your intake of omega 3's by eating more nuts and fish can also help reduce inflammation and nerve damage. Discuss the possibility of supplementing your diet with omega 3's and B vitamins with your doctor. I would also suggest being tested for a gluten allergy, which could worsen some of your symptoms. Please consider making an appointment to see a nutrition professional and CDE. He/she can help you formulate a meal plan which will address all of your complex nutritional issues.
Answered By: Susan Weiner
Accreditations: R.D., M.S., C.D.E.,C.D.N.
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*** All information contained on dLife.com is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Our Expert Q&A is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to diabetes or another medical condition. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your medical condition.

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