Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/83690
Take diabetes seriously This is advice from Gary Lewis, who was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in February. "When my doctor sat me down and counseled me on the results of my lifestyle choices, I was scared," says Gary, who ate what he wanted whenever he wanted and did not exercise. "Type 2 diabetes is when the body has either too little insulin or the cells that take up the insulin 'ignore' it. Insulin is necessary for the body to use glucose for energy," explains Dr. W. Russell Detten, Gary's family medicine physician. "When glucose is not properly utilized and glucose levels rise, it may lead to long- term complications such as kidney damage, blindness, heart disease and nerve damage." Gary Lewis "I started making changes immediately," says Gary. Dr. W. Russell Detten "I started making changes immediately," says Gary. Dr. Detten encouraged Gary to take diabetes education classes. "I now understand the physiology of diabetes and the value of quality over quantity when it comes to food selection," says Gary, who attended two half-day classes at the CoxHealth Diabetes Center and went on the grocery store tour offered by the center. "There are plenty of good choices – we just have to be educated." Gary cut out sugar in his diet and manages his intake of carbohydrates since the body breaks these down into sugar. He also incorporates exercise into his schedule, which is a challenge because he travels frequently for his job. "When I travel and am able to bring my bike, I ride around the area I am visiting. If taking my bike isn't an option, most hotels have a fitness center and pool," he says. Gary has lost 35 pounds so far, his doctor has reduced the frequency of his glucose testing and his labs have shown great improvement. 4 Gary enjoys a trail near Sequiota Park. "The real kicker is having the discipline to build this into your schedule," says Gary, who participates in charity bike rides throughout southwest Missouri. "My goal is to maintain my personal health plan and raise awareness of diabetes." Gary's favorites Healthy snacks – low fat yogurt, popcorn Healthy meal – Caesar salad with grilled chicken Exercise – Bike riding "I started bike riding when my sister-in-law was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. I began training for Bike MS, a 150-mile race," says Gary.