My Dr did try to explain about diabetes and how to manage it and she printed out information for me to read and said eat 45 to 60 carbs per meal and 20 carbs for snack. Well the diabetes educator said 35 to 45 and 15 for snack. My doctor also said to exercise 30 minutes 5 times a week She did recommend I talk with a diabetes educator. I did but she was not helpful and cost me a fortune. She ordered a glucose meter but only had me test FBG. I’ve pretty much figured out my diet on my own. I asked her to up my testing so I could get more strips and lancets. This group along with a lot of research on my own has been what has helped. She was impressed that I lost 20 pounds in three months and brought my A1C down from 7.1 to 6.0. Said she wished more patients took it that seriously. There are days I really want to just eat what I want but I’ve not given into the urge. I usually just grab a quest gooey caramel with peanuts candy bar. Satisfies that sweet tooth I have.

That was exactly whaf happened with my doctor. When i went through a compliance crisis between first and second appt, my request for mental health therapy was immediately ordered. I’m grateful for the ongoing nutritional assistsnce as well. I recently went througjh my second crisis and was fortunate that I had appts with both nutritionist and therapist on consecutive days. Both provided me with the tools I needed to move forward. It will be hard work but so worth it. I feel very fortunate to have the support I do.

Graham, I agree with you but some doctors don't ask about your insurance or refer you to a dietician until it becomes serious and with early on knowledge it could prevent other illnesses which you can maintain some control with diabetes. Some doctors or nurses are good with a diagnosis and say to the patient, I have noticed your blood sugar numbers are higher than normal and I suggest you take this medication twice daily, eat a healthier diet, some lose 20 pounds, add some exercise to your day. The doctor will ask you, how often do you exercise? He will even suggest some and say how long according to your health needs and what you're able to do also tell and show you how much water to drink daily according to your sex and weight. My doctor is good because I ask plenty questions as we should because it's our life. Your doctor should tell you how often to test yourself and the importance of knowing a normal, little high and too high bs numbers. A dietician or nutritionist is so so important with guidance of eating healthier and avoiding unhealthy foods for a diabetic. We also must observe and monitor those foods that keeps bs numbers good and bad.
Hugs from Iola
I wish us all well and safe 😃.

My doctor did write me a prescription for a meter and test strips and Metformin (now off of all meds for 3 years.) He also enrolled me in a diabetic class taught by nurses and a dietician. 3 hours a week for four weeks, lots of handouts and information.

Jimmers, with your information I would have returned to see my doctor and ask plenty questions. What is it? How did I get it? What can I do to to be healthier? And any other questions I can think of.