I am not sure if you will be able to help me or not. But I am a type 2 diabetic, and I have been told that I need to fast and pray about some things. Well, before this disease I did fast. But how does a person with diabetis fast safely?

-- Anonymous, September 01, 2003

Answers

If you have health concerns that would endanger your health, do not fast but instead increase your prayer time. I am a type 2 diabetic also but I take insulin twice a day. I cannot fast because my blood sugars would get to low.

I do not know if you are on medication for your type 2 diabetes, some diabetics manage diabetes with diet and exercise, some with oral medications and some like myself with insulin. By the way 50 percent of type 2 diabetics are on insulin.

I would suggest you discuss this matter with your doctor of diabetic manager. For they know your diabetic history.

Usually if you have a health ailment that if you fasted would cause harm to your body, do not fast. A blood sugar level of 50 and below can result in a diabetic coma. Please feel free to email me privately if you like. You are not alone, there are 16 million diabetics and at least 5 million more who have yet to be diagnosed. Welcome to the board. I have had diabetes for 39 years.

-- Anonymous, September 01, 2003

Type 2 diabetes often is associated with being overweight. The body's cells can't effectively utilize the insulin. In many cases when the person loses weight they usually can get off of their oral agent.

-- Anonymous, September 03, 2003

I am 29 years old and diabetic diagnosed at the age of 17 when I was on my way to college. I am currently on a medical leave from my job due to having 2 surgeries on my big toe May and July. The doctor thought my toe would have to be amputated. I was on IV antibiotics for 3months everyday three times a day. Off my feet completely for 3 months. Doctors appointments 3 timeees a week. I have worn a surgical shoe since February. Thank God through his grace and mercy and the prayers of the righteous I have all of my toes, I am wearing a regular shoe and I am crying right now because so many times I did not see the light at the end of the tunnell but God is Good even when we are not good to ourselves or even to him. I am battling but the battle is not mine, It's the Lords. Take care of Yourself Ms. Patterson and know that all things work together for those that love the Lord.

-- Anonymous, September 11, 2003

Markita, praise God for your healing! I had the same thing happen to my right foot last year and I almost died. I spent a month in the hospital. IV at home for 3 months like you and a wheelchair for 3 months. My surgeon also thought he would have to amputate. God is still in the miracle making business. Stay strong, I know there will be a cure. There are some exciting things in the works for diabetics. Keep me posted as to how you are doing. By the way I do water aerobics 3 times a week to help the circulation in my feet and legs, it is a lot of fun. You might want to try it. I am so glad that you have your foot. Over 50,000 diabetics have amputations each year. You are a miracle.

-- Anonymous, September 11, 2003