Dear Question Corner:
I was recently diagnosed with diabetes, and when I go out to eat with family,
they ask “should you be eating that?”, or sometimes say, "You can't eat
that!". I have been meeting with my Diabetes Educator and am making
healthy, well balanced meals based on what I’ve learned. How do I let my
friends and family understand that I know what I’m doing and am bothered by
their questions and comments?
- Questioning New Patient
Dear Questioning New Patient,
Unfortunately, what
you describe is a common experience for people living with diabetes.
These questions and comments can come across as judgmental and nagging, and
sometimes come at the worst possible time--when you're about to enjoy your
food. Initially you may feel angry, embarrassed, or annoyed. While this is completely
understandable, take a deep breath and recognize that their comments are coming
from a place of concern and that they also come from a lack of understanding of
what diabetes is and how foods can impact diabetes. When people comment
on what you're eating, you can use this as an opportunity to educate them about
diabetes and the role that medication, food, and blood glucose monitoring play
in your day to day management.
Of course, it can be exhausting
to always have to explain your food choices, so it is also a good idea to set
boundaries. You can tell people that you're happy to answer their
questions, but not when you're in the midst of eating and not while you're in a
group setting. Also, let your family members know that questions are
fine, but comments about what you should
and should not be doing are not helpful.
Find what is most comfortable for you and communicate this to your family. If you are struggling with taking medications
regularly, eating healthy, or other aspects of diabetes care, discuss with your
family ways that they can be supportive. With time and education, you
will find that your family can be understanding and supportive in your
experience with diabetes.
This post was written
by Camilla Levister, NP, CDE, a Certified
Adult Nurse Practitioner and Certified Diabetes Educator who has experience as
an insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor trainer. Ms. Levister is a co-investigator for several
research studies in diabetes taking place at the Mount Sinai Diabetes Center.
