Diabetes Health Type 2: My A1c Dropped 7.9%

By Claire Lynch

 

 

When John Lawson was diagnosed as a Type 2 diabetic three-and-a-half years ago at age 49 he was surprised. But not totally surprised. His father was Type 2, also, and John knew about the genetic predisposition.

“My A1C was 13.1 and that was a wake-up call,” John says. “It was like my doctor rang a bell. Before my diagnosis I was oblivious to watching calories, carbs and sugars but that has changed.

 

“I’ve lost 80 pounds and I took the original medicine he put me on, Metformin and Glipizide, only for six months. My A1C dropped to 5.2 and I have maintained that. Medication wasn’t needed because I was doing so well.”

 

The key to managing his Type 2 diabetes has been lots of exercise and eating right. “Lots of cardio exercises have been built into my regimen,” John notes. “I run an average of 30 miles a week plus I swim, ride my bicycle and do weight lifting.

 

“Also, eating lots of salad is enjoyable. Six days a week I eat salad. It’s good for me and I like it. Drinking a lot of water works for me and I drink coffee but am careful about what is added to it. When it comes to knowing what ingredients are in various foods and drinks, I’m a hawk. We have to be so careful.”

 

The Arkansas resident works full-time as a superintendent for a construction company. “My job requires a lot of travel so being on the road and maintaining a good diet can be challenging for diabetics,” John explains, “but I am determined to meet that challenge. I’ve got a handle on it.”

 

John, who is married with two grown children and four grandchildren, spends time with them and he also likes to fish and hunt. “Being outside in the fresh air and nature is a good thing,” he says.

 

“Both sports give me a chance to unwind and recharge my batteries plus I get to spend some time with my buddies. What can be better than that?”

 

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