New Life

I used to smoke. I had an addiction that lasted almost twenty years. I kept on smoking even when it triggered asthma attacks. Still, I managed to stop smoking during my two pregnancies and while I breastfed my daughters. I briefly picked up the habit again after weaning my youngest. By then my breathing problems had escalated and after a couple of months back in the habit, I kicked it for good.

It's been several years now and I am grateful I had the willpower to walk away from smoking. I hope I have the same strength to tackle this new challenge. I am a diabetic. I struggle with the label. But it is true. I also struggle with overeating, I have no impulse control with foods like candies and chips, and drinks such as sodas. People say moderation is key. I agree. But I know that for me, right now, it is a matter of completely cutting off certain foods and drinks if I want to be successful.

I have my reasons for taking this route. My dad was a diabetic and an alcoholic. When he was first diagnosed he was on pills and on a diet, he stopped drinking even. One day, his doctor told him he could have a drink now and then. Big mistake. My mom says he started drinking again and stopped taking care of himself. Ultimately he had to use insulin, and died of complications from diabetes. Ironically, he had stopped drinking a month before his death.

I am not a drinker, but I eat junk food compulsively. If there are chips and candies at home, I will eat and eat and eat. I know I can't control how much I eat of these things, so it is best to avoid them altogether if I want a clear shot at managing my blood sugar levels.