Dads Diabetes and Leg Infection
Dad went to the doctor yesterday. Apparently he’s gained 10 pounds, which is a big deal for him because of his problems with diabetes. The doctor told him that he needs to work on his diet, or the next step is going to be insulin needles.
Now I’ve been working on my own diet lately, mostly just eating more organic stuff, brown rice, local farm beef, our own eggs, no more sodas, etc. I haven’t really made my dad do the same thing because he’s a stubborn old farmer who likes to eat his sausage and bacon every morning and his cheez-its he’s been eating for 40 years.
So now I think my dad will be more susceptable to me controlling what food we eat, which is a good thing.
In addition, it looks like he’s starting to get an infection in his left leg, which is his good leg. The doctors at the Wound Care Center that have been treating his bad leg, haven’t been bothering with the good one. His regular doctor said that was ridiculous. So she gave him some cream for it, and I told my dad he should join me on my hikes again when his bad leg is finished healing as far as the ulcers go. The regular exercise should keep his sugar down, help him lose some weight, and in the mean time we’ll work on the healthier eating together.
I think in all reality, this is just going to be a constant battle for us. I’ve accepted that, but as long as I can keep him out of as much pain as possible for as long as possible, I’d be able to deal with that I think. I’m just going to have to put my foot down more, dammit.
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7 Responses to “Dads Diabetes and Leg Infection”
February 22nd, 2006 at 2:47 pm
I’ve been changing my diet in a similar way. I’ve found Whey Protein to be a huge help.
Can I get the pw to the previous post?
February 22nd, 2006 at 7:23 pm
Hang in there! He’ll feel better soon and then good times will be had.
February 22nd, 2006 at 10:40 pm
Wow. A lot of people are modifying their diets in such a way lately. I had to become vegetarian due to health problems. I can sympathise with your father though- once you get used to eating something, it is very, very hard to change your habits.
I hope his legs get better and he can join you on your hikes. It’s also easier to eat better when you can get fresh air… or at least I’ve found.
February 23rd, 2006 at 4:50 am
I know that’s a rough thing to go through. I’d tell you to stay strong, but I know you already will.
February 23rd, 2006 at 5:23 am
Sure, if you want the password, just send me an email or use the form on the bottom left with your email. I tried to see if you had signed up as a user but couldn’t find you
February 23rd, 2006 at 11:44 am
It’s always hard to break long standing habits, but I think that with you taking such an interest in it yourself.. it will be easier for both of you. For you, to stick with it.. and because you’re already doing it, for him to make those difficult changes.
I think hiking together is an excellent idea too. =)
February 24th, 2006 at 1:02 am
My FIL has high cholesterol and was told if he keeps eating this way he will get diabetes. He won’t stop. He won’t listen. This is on top of Multiple Sclerosis. Men!
I have switched to olive or canola oil in my house and 100% whole wheat bread. My inlaws travel a lot, but even when they are home they she(mil) won’t get this stuff. Canola oil is the same price for petes sake! After the 1st I might just raid their house and switch some of the bad stuff for the good stuff. I also bought flax seed meal and put a couple tablespoons in cookies or pancakes or cassaroles or whatever! It is high in omega 3.
Stick to it with your dad! My fil doesn’t realize he will die slowly, having every penny he ever made sucked away until nothing is left and his wife is left bankrupt. My husband may just point this out to him. Death won’t come quick, it will come slowly and painfully and expensively.