The carb list was very informative i have gotten my eating habits spot on just need to implement a exercise program down 8 lbs and only 8 more to go to reach my highschool weight
Thanks again
Congrats to you on your success thus far, Steven! I call exercise ‘free medicine’ because it is a powerful way to help lower blood sugar levels naturally…I hope it helps you as well!
I am a new diabetic, you have helped me so much with your videos, love to receive your lists to print & refer back to them. Please continue, you are really education me. I need so much help & I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Dianne
You are more than welcome, Dianne. It’s my pleasure and I’m glad to hear the resources and lists are exactly what you need. I’m wishing you all the best!
Lori, You have taught my husband (who it the diabetic) and me so much just by listening to your first 2 videos and printing off the lists (love them). We have been stuggling with this for a number of years and finally feel we can understand and do something good for him. Thank you for putting these out there, and for doing it for free. Especially for us retired people on a fixed income.
I AGREE TOTALLY!!! I AM LEARNING SO MUCH I DIDN’T KNOW!! I ALSO LOVE THE LISTS TO PRINT AND THE DIETS TO FOLLOW FOR THE MEDITERRIAN DIETS IF YOU HAVE ANY?????
THANK YOU FOR HELPING US AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES THROUGH JESUS CHRIST!!!
Hi Vic, I’m so glad that the lists are helpful. I don’t have any current meal plans that are labeled as mediterranean, but all of my meal plans and especially the 6 week solution is perfectly balanced and use the same healthy eating principles as the mediterranean diet (ie heart healthy fats, low sodium, fresh foods)
Where can I get the 6 week solution? I am diabetic, doing great with my A1C and daily sugar levels, but am trying to lose weight to help myself even further. I mm also intrigued because I skip breakfast. Kind of like intermittent fasting, but loosely followed. I was completely surprised that you said to eat 90 minutes within waking up. Thank you for the information!
Great choice, Sonia! Thanks so much for sharing. The next video is all about snacks, so I’m excited to dive in a little deeper to the best snack options (and timing).
This is just like the classes I sat in on. Sat through them a few times for weight control and pre diabetes. Helped me to loose my 100 lbs and I am forever grateful. Now I am trying to get my wife to watch the videos. Leaving her alone to see if she will do it…. fingers crossed. I did send to her email… ๐
Thanks Kevin!! I’m so proud of you for losing 100 lbs and grateful I could be a part of your weight loss journey. Hard work & accurate (science-based) nutrition info pays off every time. ๐ Here’s to hoping your wife joins also!
Thanks for your comment, Armando! You’re so welcome. Next video will be sent to your inbox in a few days and we will be chatting all about snacks! Can’t wait. ๐
Wow super informative.Now i completely know what to eat and what not.I feel happy after changing my daily menu that includes complex carbohydrates, healthy fats and proteins.Eagerly waiting to watch your video regarding snacks..
Hi Lori thanks for ur video i found it a bit slow and repetative maybe it was just me i pause and fast forward and got what i needed love ur print out at the end very helpful
look forward to no 3 thanks again
Rose X
Thank you for the video Lori!! And the high fiber checklist. So many of my favorite foods are on that list ๐ I always look forward to hearing your advice and helpful insight ๐
You’re welcome, Brenda! The answer is…maybe ๐ Depending on the brand, since many still contain high carb ingredients. Be sure to look at the serving size and total carbohydrates. If more than 15 grams of carbs per serving and low in protein, that’s likely not the best choice. Stay tuned for video #3 in the next few days…we will be talking all about snacking.
My hats off to dieticians. I have had a few excellent ones in my journey with my diabetes. With the help and information I have been given over the years,they have saved my life. I found out that I was diabetic in 1999, just 2 months after my husband passed away from complications of diabetes at a young age, leaving me to raise our 11 year old daughter on my own. I controlled my diabetes with diet and exercise until 2004. In 2009 I started my journey for my gastric bypass surgery. I visited a doctor and dietician monthly. The dietician was amazing. She showed me so much, with her help I lost 98 lbs. the year before my gastric bypass surgery. I have had a multitude of problems since I had my surgery in 2010. Last year I saw another dietician, I am doing much better. The dieticians I saw saved my life. You(dieticians) are an excellent source of information. Keep up the great work!
Hi Veronica! I’m so glad to hear you’ve had such success working with dietitians. ๐ Thank you for sharing your story and a huge congrats to you for the hard work you have done. Wishing you all the best!
Thank you for helping find healthy carbs. Never would have realized that there were so many to choose from. Definitely downloading the sheet to keep on hand
Hi, I still don’t completely under stand how to read the label. There is the carbs, then the dietary fiber, then sugar and then proteins. Do you subtract the fiber and protein from the carbs or am I totally confused.
Thanks, Amber
Hi Amber, thanks for watching the videos. To answer your question: the grams of total carbohydrates INCLUDE the fiber and sugars. Protein is separate and not included. So no, you do not need to subtract anything. ๐ Hope this helps!
Thanks Leslie! If you scroll to the top of the page, all of the videos are currently clickable (and will be until this Friday) Enjoy! And if you have any further difficulty, please email me at Lori@LoriZanini.com
Hi lori, Am I understanding right that milk is not a good carb choice because it raises blook sugar quickly? And if so, how do I get enough dairy vitamins in my daily food Plan? Thank you.
Hi Linda, yes, there are better choices than dairy milk. Lower carb options that would still provide nutritional benefits without raising your blood sugar include plain or greek yogurt, cottage cheese, unsweetened almond milk, etc. Hope this helps!
Thank you so much for these informative videos. I am looking forward to the third one as I need to find some options for a snack just before bedtime that will stop my blood sugar from increasing overnight.
Hi Lori:
I heard both your videos 1 & 2 and learnt a lot from them. Recently, my doctor told me that I am at border line and I would like to get back to normal. I have changed my diet and hoping to control the blood sugar. I have noticed that my blood sugar is high in mornings when I get up. Donโt know why?
I have printed the food list too and will follow it.
Thanks for your comment, Esmeralda. I’m so glad to hear you’ve learned some new info. It’s absolutely possible to reverse prediabetes and congrats on taking the steps to educate yourself. The third video will go over exactly what types of bedtime snacks you can choose to help lower your morning blood sugar levels. Wishing you all the best!
Hi Lori,
I enjoyed the last 2 video’s and learned a lot. Thank You! Looking forward to the next one. What is your opinion on the frozen Adkins meals I have seen in the stores?
Hi Debbie, thanks for your comment and great to hear you’ve learned so much in the videos so far! I think it’s great to make your own frozen meals, I call them my ‘backup’ meals.The next time you have leftovers, simply freeze them so you can always have a healthy option. ๐
The Akin’s Diet subtracts the fiber grams from the total carbs for a net carb. I also read that if there are more than 5 fiber you can subtract half of them from the total carbs. There is no much confusing info out there. What is the answer?
Hi Diane, great question. Both of these strategies can be helpful and in the end, both are showing that when we eat higher fiber foods, they will affect our blood sugar levels less. ๐ I’ve found in practice, this strategy of net carbs is most helpful to those with type 1 diabetes, but it can almost make counting carbs more time-consuming and complicated. Again, high fiber foods and making sure we aren’t over eating carbs at one particular meal will always be the best best! Hope this is helpful and thanks again for your question.
Lori, I think this is fantastic. I have talked with dieticians before and they tend to be far more regimented. For years, I was a baker who worked nights and would have something quick (coffee with a little milk and sweetener, 1slice whole grain bread, and Tbsp. Of peanut butter) still did not prevent me from becoming Type 2. Anyhow the pills I take in the morning I usually have with a half cup of juice. What are the best juices to have and what should I really avoid?
Hi David, thanks for your comment. The best juice would be unsweetened vegetable juices and portion sizes are 4 ounces (1/2 cup). Fruit juice (even natural) will raise blood sugar levels within five minutes, and is actually one of the recommended foods to take if you are having a low blood sugar/hypoglycemia…so try to avoid fruit juices.
I just found out yesterday I have diabetes. My A1C was 14. I signed up for your videos and I am so glad I did. I am still confused. I am not sure how many carbs we are supposed to have a day. You have been very helpful. Love your lists. Thank you!
Hi Lana, I’m so glad you found the free video training series when you did! I also received your email and just responded there to provide a few additional details for you that will answer your other questions. Thank you!
Thank you Lori for these great videos I have learned a lot so far! I drink diet juice every morning that has 8 oz as the serving size and 2 grams of carbs. Is that still like drinking pop? Here I thought that was better for me.
Hi Melissa! It’s a *little* better…but nothing beats water. ๐ I have a hard time recommending anything with carbs that is liquid, because it will get into our blood stream so much faster. Hope this helps.
Well, this is a first for me. at my age, I’ve never followed anyone’s advice on how to eat healthy. As I stated before, I’m not a cook or a chef, just an old man that really enjoy’s cooking. In the past, diet food really ‘ sucks ‘. Most of the foods taste like cardboard and for that reason, my theory has always been that if you don’t want flavor, eat cardboard. The best flavor is in the fat content. Now, I have to pedal in reverse. The flavor was great but having type II diabetes isn’t. Your video is the first that explains in detail, detail and more detail. I think i can deal with this, in fact, I know I can. Again, thank you for explaining in detail just how it works.
This is great to hear, Josef, you are welcome. Yes, bland & boring doesn’t have to be the reality when it comes to living with diabetes & improving your blood sugar. I’m glad you appreciate the detail. I’ve found that when people understand the ‘why’ behind the guidelines, it makes it easier to succeed in any situation. ๐ Enjoy video #3!
Absolutely the most easily understood explanations of blood sugar usage by body and its storage in liver and release…thank you so much for clarification of amts and times for consumption of good carbs, protein, and good fiber..lots out there is so confusing and frankly discouraging…I am Blessed to have discovered your info…thanks for the encouragement…I wonder also how much stress contributes to increased blood sugar…in 10 month period, I have taken care of injured husband (surgery), had to retire from 40 yr. NICU RN career to care for him, lost my Mother, and then 35 days later, we lost his mother…..second surgery required for husband re: failed procedure….major infection found, preventing reconstruction…IV antibiotics per PICC 6wks….then my Dr. says my A1C 6.5 increased 6.7….trying in my own was not working well…thank you for providing all this info…
Hi Rosanne, so nice to hear from you and I’m so glad to hear the videos have been helpful to you- thank you! And stress can absolutely play a role in our blood sugar levels (and of course, blood pressure)…and it sounds like you’ve had an unfortunate amount lately, I’m so sorry to hear. I hope the worst is behind you and with small changes, I know you’ll be able to lower A1c back to normal levels. ๐
Thank you so much, Lori! I love this and it’s so helpful. I take notes of everything and also print out the handouts. Everything you tell us is so easily understood and I appreciate your help. Thanks again.
Thank you for all the good information on these videos, I have been living with this silent killer for the last 10 years and it has been up and down. From the first finding out my reading was 557 and just by cutting soda it dropped to 325. A1c was 12.7, since then I have got down in weight and down to average 6.4 to 7 but it is always a battle trying to keep my # in check. I know diet has a lot to do with it. I consume a lot of cinnamon, does that help or hinder my goals? Thanks again
It’s great to hear from you Todd, thanks for your comment. Yes, soda makes a huge difference, I’m glad you were able to cut it out. Cinnamon is a great addition. If you are going to be eating more than 1 tsp/day I recommend choosing ceylon cinnamon for best results.
Lori, these videos are so useful!!! My blood sugars are under control and my next step is getting off of some of the meds. The way you explain eating properly is so basic and easily understood. Thank you! Will these videos be free to watch again and again when we need a refresher?
Thanks Donna! You can do it! So glad to hear your blood sugar levels are well-controlled. If you ever have difficulty watching the videos, feel free to email us at Contact@LoriZanini.com and we will get you access.
I have to thank you for what you said in the beginning of the video. I often feel like a failure when my blood sugar is high. I work really hard to make the right food choices and workout regularly, but many times my sugar is still high and it’s very frustrating. I appreciate you saying that I am not failing, but the food is failing me. That really hit home.
What’s your opinion on 2 farm fresh eggs and one slice of Ezekiel bread with natural peanut butter (1tbsp) for breakfast?
I truly believe it, Melissa. Congrats on your hard work…some times just a few small changes can make all the difference. And your breakfast sounds perfectly balanced, enjoy! ๐
Lori, the #2 video is another GREAT video. I am getting educated in a wonderful way. The High Fiber Foods Checklist will be so helpful and beneficial. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.
I found your website in your book, “Diabetes Cookbook & Meal Plan for the Newly Diagnosed”. Your book looks like it will be easy to follow – I know your video’s are. Thank you so much for the free video’s and lists. I am excited for the one on snacks!
Hi Julia! I’m sorry I missed this comment until now. I’m so glad you found your way here and that my new cookbook has been helpful so far. ๐ Wishing you all the best and please feel free to keep in touch if you have any questions about the books or other resources.
As someone newly diagnosed, your books, lists, and videos have been the most helpful resources Iโve come across and have helped me transition quickly from โguilt to empowerment.โ Iโm very grateful.
Thank you for letting me learn in a simple reassuring way, I have purchased the first cook book, printed the 7 day menu plan and shopped for items not in my pantry, looking forward to the next week of items I do not need to stress over!
How does plain unsweetened coconut or amond yogurts compare to Greek yogurt? Plain unsweetened coconut milk of lactose free milk vs milk in recipes? Looking for lactose free substitutes for recipes in your book.
Breakfast is my biggest challenge. Not much of an egg eater(without lots of butter or cheese), do not like Greek yogurt or avocados. Must also be fast for week day mornings.
Hi Kathy, thanks for your comment. You could also try cottage cheese, beans, lentils, breakfast chicken/turkey sausage, or even try egg muffins or a quick egg burrito in the mornings. Smoothies can also work too if you use unsweetened almond milk, berries, protein powder, etc. I have some recipes on my blog and in my cookbooks that you might find helpful.
Thank you for these videos. I had a kidney transplant 5 years ago and have been watching my blood sugar slowly rise over the past year and a half. The checklist is a great resource to have in planning meals and snacks. How do I follow your blog?
Thank you, I’m so glad you have found them useful. My blog is http://www.LoriZanini.com and that is also where you can find recipes and more info. ๐
Great, Janice! I’m glad they are helpful until you get into your class…that is exactly why I created these videos (and the online programs) so people could have accurate resources without the wait! ๐
Hi Lori, I’m a new beginner of being a diabetic. I was surprised when the doctor told me. I immediately got on-line and feel so lucky to have found you.:) A new learning experience, for sure and you are helping me. I have a couple of questions: 1. Do you recommend a protein powder? 2. I love cookbooks and my last one I have to add to my collection just has to be yours. Where do I order it from? ๐ Sorry, If all this has been covered in previous . Thanks for your help and giving me strength to begin keeping this under control. Love all the information you have put forward and will continue to follow you; faithfully.
Hi Elizabeth, thanks so much for your comment and so glad you found me as well! ๐ To answer your question, I work with ToneItUp.com and they have their own protein powder at Target and available online…it is great quality and I recommend it. And my cookbook is available at Target and Barnes and Noble, but also Amazon may be the easiest. Click here for the link (it’s currently on sale for just $9.49)
Hi Lori, I can’t begin to thank you for these videos. Doctors should be recommending them to patients! I have just had the 2nd pre-diabetes diagnosis, my blood sugar is creeping up. My doc says it is NOT smoothies – which I specifically asked about. After listening to your video I know it is absolutely the smoothies. You are so much more informative than my doctor on this subject. I can’t wait for the snacking video as that was a big problem for me too – cereal + milk before bed (at least I drink high-fat milk!). I also have a spastic esophagus (trigger/symptoms like reflux) so I eat plain white flour (cookies, crackers) to calm that, and I have an egg sensitivity…my biggest problem is veggies – I really need to increase my intake but every time I do I end up with a huge ‘gas’ problem in my intestine. Man, it sounds pretty bad when I write all this down! I thought I was healthy, food does me in.
Hi Carey, thanks for your comment. I think there is a lot of power in writing things down and it sounds like small changes will make a huge difference for you. I’m so glad to have you as member in our program and look forward to hearing about your continued success.
Iโve heard/read for years that for an adjusted carb number you can subtract amount of fiber from the total amount of carbs. Does this apply at all to a diabetic diet?
I recently was diagnosed with diabetes, so this information is very helpful for me. Iโm learning so much from these videos. So much to learn that these downloads are very beneficial to me.
Found you online while in search of a qualified person to help me get out of the continuing nightmare of managing diabetes. Recently quit meds cold turkey went immediately into super high blood0sugar numbers. Scared myself. Daughter insisted I get help and here you are. Have watched both videos. Am heading out with shopping list and feel confident this will make an enormous difference to my balance as a first step toward really dropping these numbers into a healthy range. hank you for your expertise and clear-cut information.
Hi, Lori. I am newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and I also have a gluten allergy. Before I knew about the diabetes I would eat a lot of gluten-free products like gluten-free bread and pasta the problem is that most of those products are made with rice and are very high in starch and carbs. I would love your thoughts on how to eat more whole grains.
Hi Sam, thank you for your question. Low carb, gluten free options could be breads made with almond or coconut flour, organic corn tortillas, wild brown rice, and quinoa.
I appreciate this comment, Susan. Thank you! It is the exact reason I started my online education… there was a lack of credible information coming from professionals, rather than organizations or brands. I’m glad it has been helpful to you.
I have had success losing weight with intermittent fasting. I have also been diagnosed with pre-diabetes recently (last week). Should I give up on intermittent fasting even though Iโm losing weight? I fast 2-3 times a week for 16 hours. I also exercise daily and follow a plant based diet. Thank you !
Hi JJ, this is a great question. Intermittent fasting when it comes to prediabetes and type 2 diabetes is not so clear cut. I don’t recommend it for my clients, mostly due to safety reasons, lack of research, and potential disordered eating complications. Here’s a helpful article that may provide additional insight: https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/933489. As always, your personal healthcare provider may be able to provide the best advice since they are the most familiar with your health history.
Hi Lori!
Just finished 2nd video-very helpful! Iโm very new to all this info.
I have same question as previous comment (I may have missed your answer)
โIโve heard/read for years that for an adjusted carb number you can subtract amount of fiber from the total amount of carbs. Does this apply at all to a diabetic diet?โ
Thanks for all the great info! Iโm continuing to learn and be empowered. God bless you!
Hi Meg, great question. I don’t typically teach this to my clients. It is time consuming, tedious, and not always accurate. It’s most important to look at total carbohydrates and choose high fiber foods in general…that will provide you the best information to make decisions that are right for you (and your husband). I hope this helps. ๐
Lori,
Thank you for providing this info in a nice concise way. My type 2 diabetes is hereditary from both sides. I see all my older siblings on medication so I thought it was inevitable when I was recently diagnosed as prediabetic. I was given tons of articles to read which is a bit overwhelming and rules to follow to get my blood sugar under control. I appreciate your positive energy as well as your ideas of what food I can eat. Thank you.
I’m following your newly diagnosed meals book and listening and referring back to the video and food charts. Hope to get better news when I see my doc in early Jan, or else its medicine time after years of warning me. Thx for the tips, so far so good!
Been T2 diabetic 30+ years, and finding the right foods for my body/numbers is always a struggle. Especially as time goes on, because my blood sugar seem harder to control. Frozen Blueberries and a handful of raw sunflower seeds as been my go to breakfast, thinking itโs so healthy, but as you pointed out, not healthy for blood sugar. I will give the eggs/avocado toast a try and see what the CGM reports. Thank you!
Thanks for your comment, Gayle. Glad to hear you have a CGM, what a wonderful tool. Yes, I’d love for you to follow up and share how much your blood sugar improves after changing up your breakfast a bit.
That was good information. It helps to have an amount of protein to use for breakfast. I love both raisins and dried apricots. Are dried fruits okay to use in moderation? Or should they always be avoided?
This is a really great question. No, you (thankfully!) do not need to avoid dried fruit. The serving size for dried fruit is 2 tablespoons. This provides about 15 grams of carbohydrates, so just be sure to take that into account when planning your meals.
Hi Lori,
I was just diagnosed with diabetes last Monday. I was desperate for information. I found your book “Diabetes Cookbook & Meal Plan for the Newly Diagnosed” on Amazon. I also found the link to your Diabetes Self-Management website. The book and these videos have been so helpful. I do have one question related to your book. Pages 20-21 explain your “Complete Plate” plan. That is such a helpful way to approach this. What I don’t understand is where the “Dairy” and “Fruit” fit into the meal plate plan. And even in four week meal plans, it wasn’t clear to me how the various dairy and fruit products fit into the “Plate Plan”. Can you help me understand that better? How often should you include dairy and fruit with your “complete plate”?? Thanks for this important work that you do.
Hi Patricia, this is a really good question. Thanks for reaching out.
When you look at the visual of the plate on page 20, you will see in light blue that 1/4 plate should be carbs. All fruits would be considered a carb (exception being tomatoes and avocados). Milk is also a considered a carb because it is liquid. With that being said, not all dairy falls into the carb category…some are proteins. Liquid dairy = carb and solid dairy (cheese, cottage cheese, and even plain greek yogurt) are in the protein category. I hope this provides a bit more clarity. ๐
Another fabulous video! I am finding these videos so helpful, and I’m even taking notes! I’m glad to have found your website because there is a lot of “discussions” about diabetes and the appropriate food plan. Thank you so much! You’re such a blessing to all of us Type 2s!
You are goldmine of information. I was diagnosed with diabetes a few days ago. Your videos are a wealth of encouragement and information for a newbie, like myself. Thank you, Lori, and keep up the great work!!!
I was just diagnosed with type 2 and these videos are a God send. I thought I knew something about diabetes but your videos have explained to me so much more. I think I can do this with the help of your lists and your clear explanations of the reasons for certain foods. Thank you so much!
I am learning so much. Thank you! I like the low-fat yogurt, walnuts, and berries breakfast. If you eat full-fat yogurt, is the fat in the yogurt as good as the fat in the walnuts?
Hi Jan, this is a great question. The full fat yogurt would contain more saturated fat than the walnuts (which is mostly polyunsaturated fats). However, when it comes to stabilizing our blood sugar, low fat isn’t always the best choice because it can raise blood sugar faster and often has additional sugar added to make up for the lack of taste coming from the fat. Additionally, the latest research has found saturated fat isn’t nearly as harmful as we once thought. It sounds like the full fat yogurt + walnuts + berries would be a great option for your breakfast. I personally, choose plain, whole fat yogurt when it is available. ๐
Lori,
I have been a diabetic for about 4 years and have never received so much helpful information. Everything is explained in such a way that itโs so easily understood. You have removed so much frustration for me. The downloads are so helpful. I really appreciate what you have done. Thank you so much!
Lori,
I know doctors see diabetes all the time, but I have to say I was stunned at the cavalier attitude I observed at the doctor’s office. I was diagnosed about 3 weeks ago and I was told (over the phone) to go to the pharmacist and pick up my new prescription and get a meter to test with. That was all the education I received. I immediately found and ordered your book, the Diabetes Cookbook for the Newly Diagnosed. You made this something I can understand and live with and to now have this as another aid to learning is even better.
Thank you!
Hi, we live in Dorset in The South West of England and, boy are we enjoying your easy to follow videos. Over 3 years ago we decided to try to reverse my husband Colinโs type 2 diabetes. We began to follow a low carb, low sugar diet and change our lifestyle to include more exercise (walking mostly). We both lost over 28lbs within around 6-9 months and have been able to maintain that weight ever since. Your videos are reinforcing a lot of lessons learned but are also a reminder of where we are slipping a little. As you know weight doesnโt always mean youโre the healthiest you can be! Colin has reduced his medication dramatically, feels much healthier and we now enjoy such different foods. Iโm loving your easy, straightforward information-especially the printed sheets. Thank you,
Hi Lori,
Super. Thanks for this informative video and carb chart. Just what I needed to be in control of my carbs and really how it works. Still not sure how much the carbs must be…Looking forward to the next video.
Hi Lori ,
I contacted you earlier today but unortunately i forgot to mention that i havent received the Training Video #3 as yet could you please send it to my email address. Thank You Mickey Mc
Lori, I love these videos.
I get really early – between 4-5 am. I take thyroid medication, so I need to wait an hour before eating anything.
At 5 or 6 am, I’m not very hungry will eating a tablespoon or so of plain, full fat greek yogurt at that time serve what’s needed for my blood sugar, followed by a fuller breakfast at 7-8 am?
Thank you!
Hello Lori, thank you so much for the videos. I already am learning much. I like to ask one question regarding eating carbs. You mentioned in video one that protein per meal can be from 4-6 oz correct? But if i have my 0ther 1/4 of the plate filled with brown rice- how much is the appropriate serving size per meal? Or if i like to have a slice of bread for my meal- what will be the serving size? Thank you again for the videos.
Thank you so very much for your information and knowledge, and passion on this. I have been constantly asking my doctor for a nutritionist, I am just not sure that is going to happen.
Hi Lori, I can’t thank you enough for all this truly helpful and important information, the clarity with which you explain things, and your positive attitude, as well as the lists–which are a great way for me to focus on what I need to do. Unfortunately, I already have made all of the worst mistakes, which I will start changing today. Since my diagnosis last year, I have spent untold hours doing online research because although my primary care physician told me to change everything I was eating, lose weight, and get more exercise, he had no advice for how I could do that. And, as a relatively recent widow, it was all too much for me to deal with by myself. So, I focused on taking my blood sugar daily, and losing weight, and have lost almost 35 pounds, which was my goal. I had switched to the kind of eating pattern you are recommending (but mine was much more limited, restrictive, repetitive, and is not sustainable). Because I’ve had so many questions, and some ongoing problems during the last eight months, I finally contacted an endocrinologist. It took more than a month to see her, we met two days ago, and within ten minutes of talking to her, she said, “Your numbers are good and there is nothing I can do for you.” I knew that my weight loss and eating patterns had brought down my A1c, creatinine and other diabetic-related levels, but I still had questions and concerns. She had no answers, and clearly was dismissive, although she finally recommended a dietician. As I was driving home, I stopped at a fast food joint, the first since my diagnosis, and ordered two cheap tacos. When I got home, I had a complete meltdown and slept for three hours. Since our meeting, I’ve felt depressed, and now lack motivation. My problems are: As you said in your first video: While I know there are 37 million people in the United States with diabetes, I do feel all alone. While I also know I should have the ability to manage this, I canโt do so without any support. And, finally, there are so many different approaches, how do I find a like-minded dietician and a community of people who are pursuing the process you recommend, and I embrace!
Hi Lori,Thank you so much for all this incredible information. I’ve been struggling with Type 2–on top of some other health concerns–for abut 6 weeks, and you are absolutely right! I came home from my diagnosis, bought two books on diabetes, set myself up on what I thought was right, was motivated, and did really, really well for about two or three weeks. Then I got super-resentful and wanted to eat whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted it. I back-tracked pretty significantly. Now, with your help, I’m more even-keeled, planning ahead, and trying to do the right thing. Thankfully, I like many of the foods on the “YES” lists! I like my doctor, but when I was diagnosed, she told me to “cut back on carbs” and that was it for the advice. Thanks again! Really useful information!
These videos and lists are so helpful. I am learning! I really like lists to print.
I’m so glad to hear it,Carol! I’m a list-lover too ๐
The carb list was very informative i have gotten my eating habits spot on just need to implement a exercise program down 8 lbs and only 8 more to go to reach my highschool weight
Thanks again
Congrats to you on your success thus far, Steven! I call exercise ‘free medicine’ because it is a powerful way to help lower blood sugar levels naturally…I hope it helps you as well!
I have enjoyed you videos and can’t wait for the next one. Thank they have helped me so much.
Wonderful, Cindy! I’m SO glad. Next up: all about snacking ๐
I am a new diabetic, you have helped me so much with your videos, love to receive your lists to print & refer back to them. Please continue, you are really education me. I need so much help & I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Dianne
You are more than welcome, Dianne. It’s my pleasure and I’m glad to hear the resources and lists are exactly what you need. I’m wishing you all the best!
Lori, You have taught my husband (who it the diabetic) and me so much just by listening to your first 2 videos and printing off the lists (love them). We have been stuggling with this for a number of years and finally feel we can understand and do something good for him. Thank you for putting these out there, and for doing it for free. Especially for us retired people on a fixed income.
That’s wonderful, Linda, I’m so glad! You deserve to enjoy a happy, healthy retirement, so I hope this helps you on your way. ๐
I AGREE TOTALLY!!! I AM LEARNING SO MUCH I DIDN’T KNOW!! I ALSO LOVE THE LISTS TO PRINT AND THE DIETS TO FOLLOW FOR THE MEDITERRIAN DIETS IF YOU HAVE ANY?????
THANK YOU FOR HELPING US AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES THROUGH JESUS CHRIST!!!
Hi Vic, I’m so glad that the lists are helpful. I don’t have any current meal plans that are labeled as mediterranean, but all of my meal plans and especially the 6 week solution is perfectly balanced and use the same healthy eating principles as the mediterranean diet (ie heart healthy fats, low sodium, fresh foods)
Lori, loving the videos and lists! Where can I find the 6 week solution you mentioned to Vic?
Thanks Virginia, I will email you more information.
Where can I get the 6 week solution? I am diabetic, doing great with my A1C and daily sugar levels, but am trying to lose weight to help myself even further. I mm also intrigued because I skip breakfast. Kind of like intermittent fasting, but loosely followed. I was completely surprised that you said to eat 90 minutes within waking up. Thank you for the information!
I usually have almonds or a cheese string before i go to bed
Great choice, Sonia! Thanks so much for sharing. The next video is all about snacks, so I’m excited to dive in a little deeper to the best snack options (and timing).
This is just like the classes I sat in on. Sat through them a few times for weight control and pre diabetes. Helped me to loose my 100 lbs and I am forever grateful. Now I am trying to get my wife to watch the videos. Leaving her alone to see if she will do it…. fingers crossed. I did send to her email… ๐
Thanks Kevin!! I’m so proud of you for losing 100 lbs and grateful I could be a part of your weight loss journey. Hard work & accurate (science-based) nutrition info pays off every time. ๐ Here’s to hoping your wife joins also!
Thank you so much . This video is so educational and it served as my guide with the indicated grams. More video pls.
Thanks for your comment, Armando! You’re so welcome. Next video will be sent to your inbox in a few days and we will be chatting all about snacks! Can’t wait. ๐
Wow super informative.Now i completely know what to eat and what not.I feel happy after changing my daily menu that includes complex carbohydrates, healthy fats and proteins.Eagerly waiting to watch your video regarding snacks..
Hi Vimala! ๐ I love hearing about your results and how valuable the info has been to you. Thank you for sharing!
Hi Lori thanks for ur video i found it a bit slow and repetative maybe it was just me i pause and fast forward and got what i needed love ur print out at the end very helpful
look forward to no 3 thanks again
Rose X
Thanks for your feedback, Rose! If you liked this print out, you are going to LOVE video #3’s…I can’t wait to share my Ultimate Snack Guide. ๐ T
Lori’s expertise is so valuable and trustworthy. Any individual following her guidance is guaranteed to see improvements in their health!
So kind of you to say, thanks Joanna! Nutrition science works every single time. No fad diets & short-term fixes allowed. ๐
I’m so glad I signed up #fortheloveofdiabetes!!
Me too! Thanks Carolyn.
I’m SO HAPPY I’ve found you! What a game changer you are! Thank you!
I’m so glad you’re here, Iris! Thank you for your comment. ๐
Thank you for the video Lori!! And the high fiber checklist. So many of my favorite foods are on that list ๐ I always look forward to hearing your advice and helpful insight ๐
Thanks for taking the time to comment, Aleesha! So glad you find the info useful. ๐ And cheers to more fiber!!
Hi Lori, thank u for all the info! Are those nut chips a good snack since they are nut based?
You’re welcome, Brenda! The answer is…maybe ๐ Depending on the brand, since many still contain high carb ingredients. Be sure to look at the serving size and total carbohydrates. If more than 15 grams of carbs per serving and low in protein, that’s likely not the best choice. Stay tuned for video #3 in the next few days…we will be talking all about snacking.
My hats off to dieticians. I have had a few excellent ones in my journey with my diabetes. With the help and information I have been given over the years,they have saved my life. I found out that I was diabetic in 1999, just 2 months after my husband passed away from complications of diabetes at a young age, leaving me to raise our 11 year old daughter on my own. I controlled my diabetes with diet and exercise until 2004. In 2009 I started my journey for my gastric bypass surgery. I visited a doctor and dietician monthly. The dietician was amazing. She showed me so much, with her help I lost 98 lbs. the year before my gastric bypass surgery. I have had a multitude of problems since I had my surgery in 2010. Last year I saw another dietician, I am doing much better. The dieticians I saw saved my life. You(dieticians) are an excellent source of information. Keep up the great work!
Hi Veronica! I’m so glad to hear you’ve had such success working with dietitians. ๐ Thank you for sharing your story and a huge congrats to you for the hard work you have done. Wishing you all the best!
Thank you for helping find healthy carbs. Never would have realized that there were so many to choose from. Definitely downloading the sheet to keep on hand
You’re welcome, Michelle! Yes, many more options than many people realize…enjoy!! ๐
Hi, I still don’t completely under stand how to read the label. There is the carbs, then the dietary fiber, then sugar and then proteins. Do you subtract the fiber and protein from the carbs or am I totally confused.
Thanks, Amber
Hi Amber, thanks for watching the videos. To answer your question: the grams of total carbohydrates INCLUDE the fiber and sugars. Protein is separate and not included. So no, you do not need to subtract anything. ๐ Hope this helps!
I thoroughly enjoyed video 2. I seem to have missed #1. Is it possible to resend it to me. Thank you for the free down load.
Thanks Leslie! If you scroll to the top of the page, all of the videos are currently clickable (and will be until this Friday) Enjoy! And if you have any further difficulty, please email me at Lori@LoriZanini.com
Hi lori, Am I understanding right that milk is not a good carb choice because it raises blook sugar quickly? And if so, how do I get enough dairy vitamins in my daily food Plan? Thank you.
Hi Linda, yes, there are better choices than dairy milk. Lower carb options that would still provide nutritional benefits without raising your blood sugar include plain or greek yogurt, cottage cheese, unsweetened almond milk, etc. Hope this helps!
Thank you so much for these informative videos. I am looking forward to the third one as I need to find some options for a snack just before bedtime that will stop my blood sugar from increasing overnight.
You’re welcome, Evelyn! Thanks for your comment. I think you will love the next video…plenty of delicious bedtime snack ideas coming your way. ๐
Hi Lori:
I heard both your videos 1 & 2 and learnt a lot from them. Recently, my doctor told me that I am at border line and I would like to get back to normal. I have changed my diet and hoping to control the blood sugar. I have noticed that my blood sugar is high in mornings when I get up. Donโt know why?
I have printed the food list too and will follow it.
Thank you very much.
Thanks for your comment, Esmeralda. I’m so glad to hear you’ve learned some new info. It’s absolutely possible to reverse prediabetes and congrats on taking the steps to educate yourself. The third video will go over exactly what types of bedtime snacks you can choose to help lower your morning blood sugar levels. Wishing you all the best!
Hi Lori,
I enjoyed the last 2 video’s and learned a lot. Thank You! Looking forward to the next one. What is your opinion on the frozen Adkins meals I have seen in the stores?
Hi Debbie, thanks for your comment and great to hear you’ve learned so much in the videos so far! I think it’s great to make your own frozen meals, I call them my ‘backup’ meals.The next time you have leftovers, simply freeze them so you can always have a healthy option. ๐
The Akin’s Diet subtracts the fiber grams from the total carbs for a net carb. I also read that if there are more than 5 fiber you can subtract half of them from the total carbs. There is no much confusing info out there. What is the answer?
Hi Diane, great question. Both of these strategies can be helpful and in the end, both are showing that when we eat higher fiber foods, they will affect our blood sugar levels less. ๐ I’ve found in practice, this strategy of net carbs is most helpful to those with type 1 diabetes, but it can almost make counting carbs more time-consuming and complicated. Again, high fiber foods and making sure we aren’t over eating carbs at one particular meal will always be the best best! Hope this is helpful and thanks again for your question.
Lori, I think this is fantastic. I have talked with dieticians before and they tend to be far more regimented. For years, I was a baker who worked nights and would have something quick (coffee with a little milk and sweetener, 1slice whole grain bread, and Tbsp. Of peanut butter) still did not prevent me from becoming Type 2. Anyhow the pills I take in the morning I usually have with a half cup of juice. What are the best juices to have and what should I really avoid?
Hi David, thanks for your comment. The best juice would be unsweetened vegetable juices and portion sizes are 4 ounces (1/2 cup). Fruit juice (even natural) will raise blood sugar levels within five minutes, and is actually one of the recommended foods to take if you are having a low blood sugar/hypoglycemia…so try to avoid fruit juices.
Thank you so much for sharing your videos and lists! They are very helpful.
Thank you, Jeanie! So glad you have found everything helpful so far!
I just found out yesterday I have diabetes. My A1C was 14. I signed up for your videos and I am so glad I did. I am still confused. I am not sure how many carbs we are supposed to have a day. You have been very helpful. Love your lists. Thank you!
Hi Lana, I’m so glad you found the free video training series when you did! I also received your email and just responded there to provide a few additional details for you that will answer your other questions. Thank you!
Thank you Lori for these great videos I have learned a lot so far! I drink diet juice every morning that has 8 oz as the serving size and 2 grams of carbs. Is that still like drinking pop? Here I thought that was better for me.
Hi Melissa! It’s a *little* better…but nothing beats water. ๐ I have a hard time recommending anything with carbs that is liquid, because it will get into our blood stream so much faster. Hope this helps.
Well, this is a first for me. at my age, I’ve never followed anyone’s advice on how to eat healthy. As I stated before, I’m not a cook or a chef, just an old man that really enjoy’s cooking. In the past, diet food really ‘ sucks ‘. Most of the foods taste like cardboard and for that reason, my theory has always been that if you don’t want flavor, eat cardboard. The best flavor is in the fat content. Now, I have to pedal in reverse. The flavor was great but having type II diabetes isn’t. Your video is the first that explains in detail, detail and more detail. I think i can deal with this, in fact, I know I can. Again, thank you for explaining in detail just how it works.
This is great to hear, Josef, you are welcome. Yes, bland & boring doesn’t have to be the reality when it comes to living with diabetes & improving your blood sugar. I’m glad you appreciate the detail. I’ve found that when people understand the ‘why’ behind the guidelines, it makes it easier to succeed in any situation. ๐ Enjoy video #3!
Absolutely the most easily understood explanations of blood sugar usage by body and its storage in liver and release…thank you so much for clarification of amts and times for consumption of good carbs, protein, and good fiber..lots out there is so confusing and frankly discouraging…I am Blessed to have discovered your info…thanks for the encouragement…I wonder also how much stress contributes to increased blood sugar…in 10 month period, I have taken care of injured husband (surgery), had to retire from 40 yr. NICU RN career to care for him, lost my Mother, and then 35 days later, we lost his mother…..second surgery required for husband re: failed procedure….major infection found, preventing reconstruction…IV antibiotics per PICC 6wks….then my Dr. says my A1C 6.5 increased 6.7….trying in my own was not working well…thank you for providing all this info…
Hi Rosanne, so nice to hear from you and I’m so glad to hear the videos have been helpful to you- thank you! And stress can absolutely play a role in our blood sugar levels (and of course, blood pressure)…and it sounds like you’ve had an unfortunate amount lately, I’m so sorry to hear. I hope the worst is behind you and with small changes, I know you’ll be able to lower A1c back to normal levels. ๐
Thank you so much, Lori! I love this and it’s so helpful. I take notes of everything and also print out the handouts. Everything you tell us is so easily understood and I appreciate your help. Thanks again.
You’re so welcome, Beckey. Simple and easy-to-understand is always my goal. ๐ I’m glad to hear it’s been helpful.
Thank you for all the good information on these videos, I have been living with this silent killer for the last 10 years and it has been up and down. From the first finding out my reading was 557 and just by cutting soda it dropped to 325. A1c was 12.7, since then I have got down in weight and down to average 6.4 to 7 but it is always a battle trying to keep my # in check. I know diet has a lot to do with it. I consume a lot of cinnamon, does that help or hinder my goals? Thanks again
It’s great to hear from you Todd, thanks for your comment. Yes, soda makes a huge difference, I’m glad you were able to cut it out. Cinnamon is a great addition. If you are going to be eating more than 1 tsp/day I recommend choosing ceylon cinnamon for best results.
Lori, these videos are so useful!!! My blood sugars are under control and my next step is getting off of some of the meds. The way you explain eating properly is so basic and easily understood. Thank you! Will these videos be free to watch again and again when we need a refresher?
Thanks Donna! You can do it! So glad to hear your blood sugar levels are well-controlled. If you ever have difficulty watching the videos, feel free to email us at Contact@LoriZanini.com and we will get you access.
Can a Type 2 diabetic thatโs not on medication drink any alcohol? Doesnโt it turn to sugar when itโs metabolized?
Hi Julie! Great (and very common) question. Here’s more info for you: https://www.lorizanini.com/alcohol-diabetes-heres-what-you-need-to-know/
Thank you for the helpful videos. Just do easy to check and reminder of good eating practice.
Wonderful Jan, I’m so glad to hear they have been helpful.
I have to thank you for what you said in the beginning of the video. I often feel like a failure when my blood sugar is high. I work really hard to make the right food choices and workout regularly, but many times my sugar is still high and it’s very frustrating. I appreciate you saying that I am not failing, but the food is failing me. That really hit home.
What’s your opinion on 2 farm fresh eggs and one slice of Ezekiel bread with natural peanut butter (1tbsp) for breakfast?
I truly believe it, Melissa. Congrats on your hard work…some times just a few small changes can make all the difference. And your breakfast sounds perfectly balanced, enjoy! ๐
These are great! Iโm framing them & hanging in my kitchen!
That’s awesome, Donna! Enjoy!
Lori, the #2 video is another GREAT video. I am getting educated in a wonderful way. The High Fiber Foods Checklist will be so helpful and beneficial. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.
Wonderful to hear, Lee. You’re welcome…enjoy! ๐
I found your website in your book, “Diabetes Cookbook & Meal Plan for the Newly Diagnosed”. Your book looks like it will be easy to follow – I know your video’s are. Thank you so much for the free video’s and lists. I am excited for the one on snacks!
Hi Julia! I’m sorry I missed this comment until now. I’m so glad you found your way here and that my new cookbook has been helpful so far. ๐ Wishing you all the best and please feel free to keep in touch if you have any questions about the books or other resources.
As someone newly diagnosed, your books, lists, and videos have been the most helpful resources Iโve come across and have helped me transition quickly from โguilt to empowerment.โ Iโm very grateful.
That means so much to me, Dayna. Thank you! That is truly my goal and I can’t wait to hear about your success! ๐ You’ve got this!
Thank you for letting me learn in a simple reassuring way, I have purchased the first cook book, printed the 7 day menu plan and shopped for items not in my pantry, looking forward to the next week of items I do not need to stress over!
You’re welcome, David! It sounds like you are all set! I’d love to hear an update on how everything is going for you!
How does plain unsweetened coconut or amond yogurts compare to Greek yogurt? Plain unsweetened coconut milk of lactose free milk vs milk in recipes? Looking for lactose free substitutes for recipes in your book.
Hi Carolyn, great question…those are perfectly fine substitutions and should work well in any of the recipes. Thanks for asking. Enjoy!
Breakfast is my biggest challenge. Not much of an egg eater(without lots of butter or cheese), do not like Greek yogurt or avocados. Must also be fast for week day mornings.
Hi Kathy, thanks for your comment. You could also try cottage cheese, beans, lentils, breakfast chicken/turkey sausage, or even try egg muffins or a quick egg burrito in the mornings. Smoothies can also work too if you use unsweetened almond milk, berries, protein powder, etc. I have some recipes on my blog and in my cookbooks that you might find helpful.
Thank you for these videos. I had a kidney transplant 5 years ago and have been watching my blood sugar slowly rise over the past year and a half. The checklist is a great resource to have in planning meals and snacks. How do I follow your blog?
Thank you, I’m so glad you have found them useful. My blog is http://www.LoriZanini.com and that is also where you can find recipes and more info. ๐
Janice.. just watched second video. Very informative. Canโt wait for the third. Canโt get into a class til Sept. Just trying to figure it all out.
Great, Janice! I’m glad they are helpful until you get into your class…that is exactly why I created these videos (and the online programs) so people could have accurate resources without the wait! ๐
Hi Lori, I’m a new beginner of being a diabetic. I was surprised when the doctor told me. I immediately got on-line and feel so lucky to have found you.:) A new learning experience, for sure and you are helping me. I have a couple of questions: 1. Do you recommend a protein powder? 2. I love cookbooks and my last one I have to add to my collection just has to be yours. Where do I order it from? ๐ Sorry, If all this has been covered in previous . Thanks for your help and giving me strength to begin keeping this under control. Love all the information you have put forward and will continue to follow you; faithfully.
Hi Elizabeth, thanks so much for your comment and so glad you found me as well! ๐ To answer your question, I work with ToneItUp.com and they have their own protein powder at Target and available online…it is great quality and I recommend it. And my cookbook is available at Target and Barnes and Noble, but also Amazon may be the easiest. Click here for the link (it’s currently on sale for just $9.49)
Hi Lori, I can’t begin to thank you for these videos. Doctors should be recommending them to patients! I have just had the 2nd pre-diabetes diagnosis, my blood sugar is creeping up. My doc says it is NOT smoothies – which I specifically asked about. After listening to your video I know it is absolutely the smoothies. You are so much more informative than my doctor on this subject. I can’t wait for the snacking video as that was a big problem for me too – cereal + milk before bed (at least I drink high-fat milk!). I also have a spastic esophagus (trigger/symptoms like reflux) so I eat plain white flour (cookies, crackers) to calm that, and I have an egg sensitivity…my biggest problem is veggies – I really need to increase my intake but every time I do I end up with a huge ‘gas’ problem in my intestine. Man, it sounds pretty bad when I write all this down! I thought I was healthy, food does me in.
Hi Carey, thanks for your comment. I think there is a lot of power in writing things down and it sounds like small changes will make a huge difference for you. I’m so glad to have you as member in our program and look forward to hearing about your continued success.
Iโve heard/read for years that for an adjusted carb number you can subtract amount of fiber from the total amount of carbs. Does this apply at all to a diabetic diet?
I recently was diagnosed with diabetes, so this information is very helpful for me. Iโm learning so much from these videos. So much to learn that these downloads are very beneficial to me.
I’m glad to hear they are helpful, Debbie! Thanks for your feedback ๐
Found you online while in search of a qualified person to help me get out of the continuing nightmare of managing diabetes. Recently quit meds cold turkey went immediately into super high blood0sugar numbers. Scared myself. Daughter insisted I get help and here you are. Have watched both videos. Am heading out with shopping list and feel confident this will make an enormous difference to my balance as a first step toward really dropping these numbers into a healthy range. hank you for your expertise and clear-cut information.
Hi Fiona. Thanks for your message and you are welcome. I hope you are already seeing the difference. ๐
Hi, Lori. I am newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and I also have a gluten allergy. Before I knew about the diabetes I would eat a lot of gluten-free products like gluten-free bread and pasta the problem is that most of those products are made with rice and are very high in starch and carbs. I would love your thoughts on how to eat more whole grains.
Thank you for the videos and support
Hi Sam, thank you for your question. Low carb, gluten free options could be breads made with almond or coconut flour, organic corn tortillas, wild brown rice, and quinoa.
So good to get more education that is not sponsored by a company and biased. Thank you.
I appreciate this comment, Susan. Thank you! It is the exact reason I started my online education… there was a lack of credible information coming from professionals, rather than organizations or brands. I’m glad it has been helpful to you.
I have had success losing weight with intermittent fasting. I have also been diagnosed with pre-diabetes recently (last week). Should I give up on intermittent fasting even though Iโm losing weight? I fast 2-3 times a week for 16 hours. I also exercise daily and follow a plant based diet. Thank you !
Hi JJ, this is a great question. Intermittent fasting when it comes to prediabetes and type 2 diabetes is not so clear cut. I don’t recommend it for my clients, mostly due to safety reasons, lack of research, and potential disordered eating complications. Here’s a helpful article that may provide additional insight: https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/933489. As always, your personal healthcare provider may be able to provide the best advice since they are the most familiar with your health history.
Hi Lori!
Just finished 2nd video-very helpful! Iโm very new to all this info.
I have same question as previous comment (I may have missed your answer)
โIโve heard/read for years that for an adjusted carb number you can subtract amount of fiber from the total amount of carbs. Does this apply at all to a diabetic diet?โ
Thanks for all the great info! Iโm continuing to learn and be empowered. God bless you!
Hi Meg, great question. I don’t typically teach this to my clients. It is time consuming, tedious, and not always accurate. It’s most important to look at total carbohydrates and choose high fiber foods in general…that will provide you the best information to make decisions that are right for you (and your husband). I hope this helps. ๐
Thanks Lori! This is definitely helpful!
Lori,
Thank you for providing this info in a nice concise way. My type 2 diabetes is hereditary from both sides. I see all my older siblings on medication so I thought it was inevitable when I was recently diagnosed as prediabetic. I was given tons of articles to read which is a bit overwhelming and rules to follow to get my blood sugar under control. I appreciate your positive energy as well as your ideas of what food I can eat. Thank you.
I’m following your newly diagnosed meals book and listening and referring back to the video and food charts. Hope to get better news when I see my doc in early Jan, or else its medicine time after years of warning me. Thx for the tips, so far so good!
Thanks Bob! Best wishes for better results. Sounds like you are heading in the right direction. ๐
Been T2 diabetic 30+ years, and finding the right foods for my body/numbers is always a struggle. Especially as time goes on, because my blood sugar seem harder to control. Frozen Blueberries and a handful of raw sunflower seeds as been my go to breakfast, thinking itโs so healthy, but as you pointed out, not healthy for blood sugar. I will give the eggs/avocado toast a try and see what the CGM reports. Thank you!
Thanks for your comment, Gayle. Glad to hear you have a CGM, what a wonderful tool. Yes, I’d love for you to follow up and share how much your blood sugar improves after changing up your breakfast a bit.
That was good information. It helps to have an amount of protein to use for breakfast. I love both raisins and dried apricots. Are dried fruits okay to use in moderation? Or should they always be avoided?
This is a really great question. No, you (thankfully!) do not need to avoid dried fruit. The serving size for dried fruit is 2 tablespoons. This provides about 15 grams of carbohydrates, so just be sure to take that into account when planning your meals.
Hi Lori,
I was just diagnosed with diabetes last Monday. I was desperate for information. I found your book “Diabetes Cookbook & Meal Plan for the Newly Diagnosed” on Amazon. I also found the link to your Diabetes Self-Management website. The book and these videos have been so helpful. I do have one question related to your book. Pages 20-21 explain your “Complete Plate” plan. That is such a helpful way to approach this. What I don’t understand is where the “Dairy” and “Fruit” fit into the meal plate plan. And even in four week meal plans, it wasn’t clear to me how the various dairy and fruit products fit into the “Plate Plan”. Can you help me understand that better? How often should you include dairy and fruit with your “complete plate”?? Thanks for this important work that you do.
Hi Patricia, this is a really good question. Thanks for reaching out.
When you look at the visual of the plate on page 20, you will see in light blue that 1/4 plate should be carbs. All fruits would be considered a carb (exception being tomatoes and avocados). Milk is also a considered a carb because it is liquid. With that being said, not all dairy falls into the carb category…some are proteins. Liquid dairy = carb and solid dairy (cheese, cottage cheese, and even plain greek yogurt) are in the protein category. I hope this provides a bit more clarity. ๐
Another fabulous video! I am finding these videos so helpful, and I’m even taking notes! I’m glad to have found your website because there is a lot of “discussions” about diabetes and the appropriate food plan. Thank you so much! You’re such a blessing to all of us Type 2s!
Thank you! You are welcome.
You are goldmine of information. I was diagnosed with diabetes a few days ago. Your videos are a wealth of encouragement and information for a newbie, like myself. Thank you, Lori, and keep up the great work!!!
Wonderful, Michele. I’m glad you are feeling encouraged and taking steps to educate yourself. You are in the right place. ๐
I was just diagnosed with type 2 and these videos are a God send. I thought I knew something about diabetes but your videos have explained to me so much more. I think I can do this with the help of your lists and your clear explanations of the reasons for certain foods. Thank you so much!
These videos are great. Love the food lists. All of this is new to me. Thanks
I am learning so much. Thank you! I like the low-fat yogurt, walnuts, and berries breakfast. If you eat full-fat yogurt, is the fat in the yogurt as good as the fat in the walnuts?
Hi Jan, this is a great question. The full fat yogurt would contain more saturated fat than the walnuts (which is mostly polyunsaturated fats). However, when it comes to stabilizing our blood sugar, low fat isn’t always the best choice because it can raise blood sugar faster and often has additional sugar added to make up for the lack of taste coming from the fat. Additionally, the latest research has found saturated fat isn’t nearly as harmful as we once thought. It sounds like the full fat yogurt + walnuts + berries would be a great option for your breakfast. I personally, choose plain, whole fat yogurt when it is available. ๐
Lori,
I have been a diabetic for about 4 years and have never received so much helpful information. Everything is explained in such a way that itโs so easily understood. You have removed so much frustration for me. The downloads are so helpful. I really appreciate what you have done. Thank you so much!
Lori,
I know doctors see diabetes all the time, but I have to say I was stunned at the cavalier attitude I observed at the doctor’s office. I was diagnosed about 3 weeks ago and I was told (over the phone) to go to the pharmacist and pick up my new prescription and get a meter to test with. That was all the education I received. I immediately found and ordered your book, the Diabetes Cookbook for the Newly Diagnosed. You made this something I can understand and live with and to now have this as another aid to learning is even better.
Thank you!
Hi, we live in Dorset in The South West of England and, boy are we enjoying your easy to follow videos. Over 3 years ago we decided to try to reverse my husband Colinโs type 2 diabetes. We began to follow a low carb, low sugar diet and change our lifestyle to include more exercise (walking mostly). We both lost over 28lbs within around 6-9 months and have been able to maintain that weight ever since. Your videos are reinforcing a lot of lessons learned but are also a reminder of where we are slipping a little. As you know weight doesnโt always mean youโre the healthiest you can be! Colin has reduced his medication dramatically, feels much healthier and we now enjoy such different foods. Iโm loving your easy, straightforward information-especially the printed sheets. Thank you,
Great info! I just found out that I am one of those eating the wrong breakfast! Oatmeal, blueberries and milk! Time to change!
Hi Lori,
Super. Thanks for this informative video and carb chart. Just what I needed to be in control of my carbs and really how it works. Still not sure how much the carbs must be…Looking forward to the next video.
Hi Lori ,
I contacted you earlier today but unortunately i forgot to mention that i havent received the Training Video #3 as yet could you please send it to my email address. Thank You Mickey Mc
Lori, I love these videos.
I get really early – between 4-5 am. I take thyroid medication, so I need to wait an hour before eating anything.
At 5 or 6 am, I’m not very hungry will eating a tablespoon or so of plain, full fat greek yogurt at that time serve what’s needed for my blood sugar, followed by a fuller breakfast at 7-8 am?
Thank you!
Hello Lori, thank you so much for the videos. I already am learning much. I like to ask one question regarding eating carbs. You mentioned in video one that protein per meal can be from 4-6 oz correct? But if i have my 0ther 1/4 of the plate filled with brown rice- how much is the appropriate serving size per meal? Or if i like to have a slice of bread for my meal- what will be the serving size? Thank you again for the videos.
Thank you so very much for your information and knowledge, and passion on this. I have been constantly asking my doctor for a nutritionist, I am just not sure that is going to happen.
Hi Lori, I can’t thank you enough for all this truly helpful and important information, the clarity with which you explain things, and your positive attitude, as well as the lists–which are a great way for me to focus on what I need to do. Unfortunately, I already have made all of the worst mistakes, which I will start changing today. Since my diagnosis last year, I have spent untold hours doing online research because although my primary care physician told me to change everything I was eating, lose weight, and get more exercise, he had no advice for how I could do that. And, as a relatively recent widow, it was all too much for me to deal with by myself. So, I focused on taking my blood sugar daily, and losing weight, and have lost almost 35 pounds, which was my goal. I had switched to the kind of eating pattern you are recommending (but mine was much more limited, restrictive, repetitive, and is not sustainable). Because I’ve had so many questions, and some ongoing problems during the last eight months, I finally contacted an endocrinologist. It took more than a month to see her, we met two days ago, and within ten minutes of talking to her, she said, “Your numbers are good and there is nothing I can do for you.” I knew that my weight loss and eating patterns had brought down my A1c, creatinine and other diabetic-related levels, but I still had questions and concerns. She had no answers, and clearly was dismissive, although she finally recommended a dietician. As I was driving home, I stopped at a fast food joint, the first since my diagnosis, and ordered two cheap tacos. When I got home, I had a complete meltdown and slept for three hours. Since our meeting, I’ve felt depressed, and now lack motivation. My problems are: As you said in your first video: While I know there are 37 million people in the United States with diabetes, I do feel all alone. While I also know I should have the ability to manage this, I canโt do so without any support. And, finally, there are so many different approaches, how do I find a like-minded dietician and a community of people who are pursuing the process you recommend, and I embrace!
Hi Lori,Thank you so much for all this incredible information. I’ve been struggling with Type 2–on top of some other health concerns–for abut 6 weeks, and you are absolutely right! I came home from my diagnosis, bought two books on diabetes, set myself up on what I thought was right, was motivated, and did really, really well for about two or three weeks. Then I got super-resentful and wanted to eat whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted it. I back-tracked pretty significantly. Now, with your help, I’m more even-keeled, planning ahead, and trying to do the right thing. Thankfully, I like many of the foods on the “YES” lists! I like my doctor, but when I was diagnosed, she told me to “cut back on carbs” and that was it for the advice. Thanks again! Really useful information!