How can diabetic patients gain weight safely?

Question

Hello doctor,

My husband, aged 51, is clinically diagnosed as diabetic. His HbA1c remained at 6.5 during the last two checkups. The last checkup was done three months ago. His blood sugar after the food was 178 mg/dL two weeks ago.

He has lost weight by 22 pounds in six months. He has become weak both physically and in appearance. His BP is 90 to 130 mmHg, and he has been taking the tablet Telmisartan 40 for two years.

Also, he is having severe pain in his elbow, which is diagnosed as tennis elbow, and the tablet Bounty is prescribed, and he has been taking this for the last seven days. Kindly prescribe the medicine for a diabetic who is gaining weight.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

I would like to know what medicines he is on for diabetes. Follow-up would be free, so please answer my questions, as it will allow me to help you better. Regarding his blood pressure, 130/90 mmHg is good. So, continue the medicine. 6 to 6.5 is a very good HbA1c score to maintain.

But some diabetic medicines lead to weight loss (which is mostly required). So, please mention the medicine names and how many times he takes them. Also, mentioning some general guidelines that he can follow for better control. Regular meal times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Avoid fried and junk food. You can include the following foods in your diet: fresh fruits, veggies, whole grains, beans, peas, low-fat dairy products, fish, and nuts like almonds and walnuts. You must avoid bakery products, sweets, organ meats, egg yolk, white bread, white rice, potatoes, red pumpkin, pineapple, sapodilla, mangoes, custard apples, and grapes. Try to exercise (even brisk walking will do) for at least 30 minutes for five days a week.

Eliminate sugar and sugar products from the diet. No sugar-free or jaggery as well. Remember, moderation is the answer. There is no harm in indulging in something you like, once in a while, in a small amount.

I hope this clarifies your concerns.

Please feel free to reach out anytime if you need further assistance.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Kindly follow the guidelines I have mentioned above. Along with that, start tablet Amaryl (Glimepiride) 1 mg, two times daily, to be taken immediately after meals. In case he feels dizzy or sweaty, let him have a pinch of sugar immediately.

After a week, follow up with me, with his blood sugar levels in fasting and postprandial (PP- two hours later sample). In case of any discomfort (hypoglycemia, which is low blood sugar), immediately consult your local physician.

I hope this clarifies your concerns.

Please feel free to reach out anytime if you need further assistance.

Thank you.