diabetes and PCOS with dieting

[888mom]

My doctor told me I've had problems losing weight the last couple years (haven't lost any really) because of PCOS (something about polycystic ovarian something or other) and because of my diabetes and insulin resistance.  I can't take stuff that would speed up my metabolism or diet pills because I also have an autoimmune disease (mixed connective tissue disorder) and the doctor is afraid it might mess up my thyroid function or something so won't prescribe any weight loss medication.  Being on metformin for my diabetes I have dropped about 6 pounds in the last 6 weeks, since my blood sugar levels are more under control.  That's a lot better than before.  Is it just going to take a long time?  So, I am if weight watchers won't take the weight off (not to mention throwing my money away every week having done that), what type of diet will work?  I can't do too low carb, but I have cut the carbs way down because of the diabetes, but don't know how far to push it.  So, I'm a little over 200 pounds and am 5'5".  And what kind of low impact exercise is good if you have joint issues?  I am only 34, but with my health issues sometimes I feel like I'm more like 80 or 90.  I gained 90 pounds being pregnant (gestational diabetes which turned in to full blown diabetes) two years ago, and before that, I was normal weight.  I have been watching calories the last two years, maintaining a diet of around 1200 to 1400 calories, but the doctor said that caloric intake with the insulin resistance thing was not going to help me, it's the carbs.  So, how do you do a South Beach or Zone type diet with getting enough to have energy to chase after a 2 year old with boundless energy and not pass out?  

Well, I guess before when I was normal weight, I was eating too many carbs and sugar  heavy stuff, so I guess it's better I had a wake up call gaining 90 pounds during my pregnancy to get me to start eating healthier.  And even though I am overweight, I am eating healthier now than I was 2 to 3 years ago.  But, it's still depressing to be 80 pounds or so overweight.

[Barb925]

I agree with peekawho, WW does work you just need to be patient. I have a very bad back and fibromyalgia. My dr stresses yoga and walking. Do to my fibro activity has been limited, however it is my intent to go back to yoga. I also have a Susan Sansone walking DVD that is excellent.

I also have pre-diabetes. My dr put me on metformin at the end of December and I have already lost 15 lbs. My dr. is thrilled. I do need to start exercising or my weight will be at a stand still. I do know that my dr is very much for the South Beach diet. He stress little to no carbs.  Good luck and keep us informed.

Barb

[peekawho]

A program will work if you work the program as written.

Eat only lean meats, fat free dairy, whole grains, fruits and veggies, and eat very little to NO highly processed foods.  No excuses.  Rid your house of pretzels, cookies, chips, candy, sugary or highly processed breakfast cereals, and fatty foods of any type.  Your family and child can benefit greatly from learning this way of eating, too.  

Walk 3 or 4 times a week, do whatever simple exercises you feel you can.  Anything is better than nothing.  If you have problems with your joints in your lower body, for now do arm and upper body exercises.  Or vice versa.  If you can only walk to the mailbox, by golly, walk there every day, and soon you will be able to start adding a few more steps little by little.  

My husband was on Metformin, and lost over 40 pounds this way.  He is now off his meds, both for diabetes and hypertension.   You can do it too!  

I'm not sure how long ago you did WW.  The program has changed quite a bit in the last couple of years.  I do the Core program, which involves eating as I described above.  My husband eats that way by default, b/c I don't plan or prepare anything else.  We've both learned how and why to eat.  

But any sensible program THAT YOU FOLLOW EXACTLY will work for you, insulin resistance or not, PCOS or not.  Many programs have thousands of women with these conditions that have been very successful.  

Best of luck to you in starting off a healthy life in whatever way you feel would work for you.