Hello, people. I hate to categorize myself, but the subject line says a lot. I found out in January, just shy of my 40th birthday, that I am diabetic. This inspired me to get into shape, and I have been lifting and doing cardio ever since. I feel better, and look younger, than I have in years! I am managing my blood sugar with some pretty great oral meds. Yea, science!

I just started using creatine, and, wow! That stuff is great! I was literally so *pumped* just thinking about the gym today, I felt like my arms were going to explode. I am very skeptical -- I am an ex-Jehovah's Witness punk rock atheist, too -- but I am all about using supplements that work.

Ok, I have already overshared. Nice to be here...

diabetes runs in my family. my dad died from diabetes and heart problems. as smart as he was, he didn't seem to believe in the health benefits of exercise. at least that's what it seemed like to me. but i didn't know him that well; i could be wrong.

he was a doctor, and i'm sure he knew about glycemic load. but he still ate white rice. with his heart condition and diabetes, he should have been eating 6 small meals a day to avoid spikes in blood sugar levels. i know he got up early in the morning for a snack, but he ate crackers, which have a higher glycemic index value than white bread!

it's good to hear that you've gotten in great shape. you're setting a good example for your kids too!!

Hi Mike. I'm glad that you're taking your health seriously. My husband's was a diabetic, never took care of his health and ended up suffering with complications. I have been working hard to ensure that I do not develop diabetes.

I'm sure that there are folks here, who will be able to give you sage advice, or just encouragement. Keep up the good work!

Thanks Joel and sonja for the kind words of encouragement.

Joel, my understanding is that blood glucose management -- especially in the eyes of an MD -- is about weight reduction and long-term management. When properly managed with meds, those short term bursts of sugar from high glycemic index foods are ok.

It is a tough road to go down, especially when you realize that you must also manage salt intake and fat intake. One can only eat so much lettuce! Every trip to the grocery store is a challenge for me.