Dear Lynn:

My father has diabetes that is not controlled and I am worried. I've tried to help control his sugar intake, without success. Other family members feed him anything he wants. He feels that, since he's the provider, he can eat anything he wants. How can I help him?
Thanks,
Katrina

Dear Katrina:

It's often difficult for concerned family members to understand that the only person who can really take charge of his or her blood sugar levels is the person with diabetes. Of course, family members can be supportive, listen to the person's needs and learn as much about diabetes themselves as possible. Beyond that, you can't force your father to change his diet or other habits.

However, there are some actions you can take that may help your father.

1. Encourage your father, and as many other family members as you can, to participate in a diabetes education program. Most hospitals or local diabetes associations offer these programs at very reasonable fees. Attend the program with your father to offer support. If he refuses to attend, go yourself to learn as much as you can about diabetes.
2. You can also encourage your father to attend local diabetes support group meetings. Offer to go with him, or rotate the meetings among other family members. You will find other people in similar situations who can offer advice and encouragement.
3. If your father is not a member of the American Diabetes Association, sign him up yourself! Members receive a monthly magazine full of information about diet, exercise, medications and the day-to-day struggle of living with diabetes. You will also receive information on books, videos, and cookbooks about diabetes. To find out more, look at the American Diabetes Association website.

Remember also that Type 2 diabetes tends to run in families. Learning as much as you can about diabetes may help you or another family member control this disease -- without as much difficulty as your father is experiencing. Good luck in your efforts.

Sincerely,
Lynn Grieger, RD, CD, CDE

RESOURCES:

• Find support and information on the Diabetes Information message board.
• Is honey okay if you have diabetes?
• For more information on diabetes, visit iVillageHealth.