Diabetic at Old Age

 For a long time, I willfully refused to accept that I had diabetes. I brushed aside the warnings and chose to believe I was still in control albeit at age close to 80

.. But after my recent tests—an HbA1c reading of 8.0 at the polyclinic yesterday, and a home test today showing 8.3—the reality is now undeniable: I am diabetic.

The doctor recommended starting on metformin, a common and effective medication that helps the pancreas produce insulin more efficiently and lowers blood sugar levels. However, I requested a three-month grace period to try managing my condition through diet and lifestyle changes first. I want to take some ownership of this battle and see if natural adjustments can make a difference before turning to medication.

To be fair, metformin is generally well-tolerated and has few serious side effects. In fact, it's sometimes even prescribed off-label to aid in weight loss or improve metabolic health. So, I’m not opposed to taking it if necessary. But for now, I’d like to explore if I can turn things around on my own.

The next three months will be critical. I’ll need to be disciplined with my diet, cut down on sugars and processed carbs, stay active, and monitor my levels regularly. This is a wake-up call—and perhaps, a second chance.

Let’s see how it goes.