Last updated on November 26, 2023
Exercise is a matter of staying alive and healthy for me.
When I don’t exercise every two to four hours, I get a headache and chest pains. The palsy increases, as do my autistic sensory issues. Add to this the inevitable anxiety (panic), I know exactly what I need to do.
We have verified I can lower my glucose from >200 Mg/dL to 116 with 45 minutes on the bike. What we don’t know is the why of some spikes.
Yes, I love sweets. I crave them. But, as soon as we knew that I was pre-diabetic, we adjusted my diet. I’ve maintained the weight my doctors have suggested (175-180 pounds, but I’m aiming for 170-175). I count calories and consume as few carbs (of all types) as possible.
Years of chronic anemia possibly contributed to the diabetes according to my doctors. My new physician has said he wants to avoid medication if possible. My previous doctor had taken the same approach.
If a workplace doesn’t enable me to get up and move often, and with some vigor, there’s no chance of lowering my glucose readings. I cannot sit and sit and sit — it’s dangerous.
If I cannot eat throughout the day, that’s also dangerous. Every two hours, a snack or meal, to keep things evenly spaced throughout the day.
Again, a workplace has to accommodate my schedule. My health isn’t worth whatever rules an employer considers essential.
I’m not a fun, outgoing, charming person. If I have a need, I state that need and its reason. I’d tell my students to start with a positive and negotiate, but I never take my own advice.
My daughters are getting into the routine, too. “Daddy, time to eat. Daddy, time to test your blood. Daddy, you need to ride the exercise bike. We’ll keep you company and do yoga.”
I ride the bike; the girls do Cosmic Yoga.
When the girls play “bakery” they make “no sugar, low-carb, special treats” for Daddy. They remind me I cannot have bread, pasta, or rice when we eat out. They’re good little health monitors.
I plan to be around when they graduate high school, go off to college, and beyond. Nothing is going to stop me from taking care of myself to be there for them.