Control Line and Diabetes

[Ron King]

Like some of you guys, I am getting older and have been fighting a battle with my own blood sugar.

For most of this year, I have been working with UAVs and that has me doing nothing but stand in a field and guide the craft via RC. It's cool and I enjoy the heck out of flying anything, but it wasn't doing much for my health.

Finally last month, I decided to pull my Alouette down off the wall and took it out to my flying field. A couple hours later, a huffing and puffing, but happy stunt flyer got back home. Boy was I stiff and sore the next day. Doggone 60-sized pipe stunters pull pretty hard sometimes.     Since then, I have been able to get out and fly my CL planes more and notice that I get a lot more exercise doing so.

Long story short: I went to the doctor today for my monthly checkup and the doctor was amazed at how much better I was doing. Flying control line stunt, along with a healthy diet, may actually be good for you. Ask your doctor.... If nothing else, "Doctor's Orders" is a great excuse. 

Just a little food for thought (with NO trans fats or sugar) 

Ron

[Jim Oliver]

Hey Ron, you have given me a great idea.

A prescription for a few new engines and kits would be great---my co-pay for medications is very low!!
Now, to convince my doctor.

Jim

[Steve Helmick]

My co-pay is $30, and they won't give me more than a month's supply of either Niaspan ($$$)  (time release Niacin for cholesterol) or Hydochlorothiazide (cheap) (for bp). I got my Dr. to prescribe a whole HCTZ, tho I only take 1/2 a pill a day, so that cuts my cost in half. I'm supposed to take two Niaspans a day, but don't. Next time I see him, I'll see if I can work that angle on the expensive stuff, or find something cheap, because this stuff makes my hair burst into flames... (well, it feels like it!). Man, talk about "hot flashes". 

Don't we have an MD in our midst, who can prescribe PA .75's and SV-11 kits??? Even at $30 co-pay, that's right reasonable! I think Randy Smith should get one of those online Medical Degrees, don't you? Of course, he'd have to hire a half dozen office babes to fill out all the paperwork, but that's a win-win-win situation, right???  Steve

PS: What really wears me out (and I go to the gym and have strong legs...100 leg presses at 365 lbs per visit), is walking around on the rough ground at the field...especially flying. It's real hard to fly decently when you're stumbling around, just trying not to fall down.

[EddyR]

I notice that most of the people at the contests are very over weight They stand there complaining how bad they feel and are eating junk food. When I look at pictures of contests I see fat people. Not over weight but fat. Now if this sounds cruel it's not. It's a wake up call. I was very over weight and I lost a lot it and most of the problems that go along with it. Many trim people have health problem but carrying around 50-70+ extra pounds makes things worse.
Ed

[Ron King]

Ed,

You are not being cruel. You're remarks are right on target. 

I am not seriously overweight (206), but like most of us I could lose a few pounds and never miss them. The doctor told me if I could lose 10 - 20 pounds, I would not have to worry about any of this.

The next best thing to being a doctor is to be married to one. Our buddy, Steve Fitton, is married to a real doctor and she is an expert on diabetes and such. Steve has my thanks for bringing this problem out into the open.

Fortunately, my co-pay is only $20.00 and I need a new PA 61. I'll ask the doctor to write a prescription and will bring it to Huntersville next month. 

Ron

[captcurt]

Steve:

Ask your doctor about some of the over the counter Time releaded Niacins  They are pretty cheap.

There is immediate, sustained release, and extended release which is what the Niaspan is.

Each of these does a particular part in cholesterol reduction according to my information. 

I use a sustained release product that is widely recommended called Endur-acin from endurance products in Oregon.  It has done wonders for me and no side effects that I had with some of the other products like Niaspan--and it is very inexpensive--no Rx.

FWIW

Curt

[Bill Little]

I notice that most of the people at the contests are very over weight They stand there complaining how bad they feel and are eating junk food. When I look at pictures of contests I see fat people. Not over weight but fat. Now if this sounds cruel it's not. It's a wake up call. I was very over weight and I lost a lot it and most of the problems that go along with it. Many trim people have health problem but carrying around 50-70+ extra pounds makes things worse.
Ed

Hi Ed,

You are right and I am one of the guys you are describing!  A question: do you really think I LIKE beig so overweight?  About 12 years ago, I lost 70 lbs.  EVERYTHING in my check ups was the best ever!  Since then DIABETES has struck, and that, my friend, is the END to weight loss.  I have corresponded with Steve F.'s wife (through Steve), a Board Certified Endocrinologist (she deals with diabetics) and losing weight is a *losing* proposition.  As I studied in Grad School (Part of my Masters is Exercise Physiology), the physiology of our bodies does not allow burning fat as long as our blood sugar levels are elevated.  Guess what diabetes is............. elevated blood sugar levels.  There is not enough exercise in the world to burn fat if your blood sugar is up.  Plus, several older guys are no longer able to DO the strenuous exercise we did in our youth.  Medical fact.

I was a WELL above average athlete in my younger days, professional level..  I do not LIKE being fat, and I have, and am still doing more than most would imagine to lose weight.  Even went on a Hospital 1200 calorie a day diet, for three months, strictly adhered to, and I GAINED weight.  On 1200 calories a DAY and no cheating. 

So while I understand where you are coming from, in some cases it is not a case of wanting to, or even being able to, at times.  Short of a visit to a facility which I can neither afford nor my insurance would pay for, I am stuck until SOMETHING new is found in the world of medicine.  And the stay in a facility might not even do it.  If I could lose 70-80 lbs. again, I would.

What I have right now is a problem I would really like to get rid of.  It causes problems in every aspect of your life, missed work days, inability to participate in varoius activities, having to give up coaching since diabetes lead to dehydration, etc., etc..   Add in a knee with no cartilage nor ligaments left and things are not as easy as some would think.

Bill <><

[Glen Wearden]

Control line flying is good exercise; problem is, we don't do it every day or three times a week.  At least I don't.  With that said, the feeling that I have when I head home after flying, even if I'm carrying the plane in a plastic bag, is wonderful, and my blood pressure readings improve.  So why don't I fly every day? ...........Glen

[Eric Viglione]

Bill - It's pretty obvious Eddy wasn't talking about people with a medical condition, he was targeting "people eating junk food" carrying extra weight and still complaining about how they felt. Hey, I haven't seen the underside of 180 since I was 13 years old, and haven't seen the underside of 220 since adulthood, so I am no one to talk, but I've always been told by people I look sickly when I drop the weight below 230. I'm a big guy, and even though I think I can carry it well, my doctor does tell me that as I age I will have to drop a few pounds, or deal with the consequences (joint problems, etc.)

I'd take Eddy's note as a heads up for currently healthy overweight people who have no excuses, as they are heading for a train wreck. Duly noted! Thanks Eddy!

EricV

Hi Ed,

You are right and I am one of the guys you are describing!  A question: do you really think I LIKE beig so overweight? 
Bill <><

[Bill Little]

Bill - It's pretty obvious Eddy wasn't talking about people with a medical condition, he was targeting "people eating junk food" carrying extra weight and still complaining about how they felt. Hey, I haven't seen the underside of 180 since I was 13 years old, and haven't seen the underside of 220 since adulthood, so I am no one to talk, but I've always been told by people I look sickly when I drop the weight below 230. I'm a big guy, and even though I think I can carry it well, my doctor does tell me that as I age I will have to drop a few pounds, or deal with the consequences (joint problems, etc.)

I'd take Eddy's note as a heads up for currently healthy overweight people who have no excuses, as they are heading for a train wreck. Duly noted! Thanks Eddy!

EricV

Hi Eric,

I know what Ed is saying, we are friends, and I like him a lot!    Just was venting some of my OWN frustrations, I think.  I was 200 lbs when I was 13, and my college playing weight was 240, or so.  I was at 232 back in '96.  BP, and everything was perfect!  Everything under the limits by a good bit.  Unfortunately, that is something that doesn't look like it will happen again barring a castostrophic event, or some breakthrough in medicine.

I agree with Ed, those who CAN really need to get the weight down and keep it there.  Life will be MUCH better!

Bill <><

[john e. holliday]

Several years ago the wife and daughter put me on a diet because I was well over 260 pounds on a 6 foot frame.  I felt good, but, was younger then.  They got me down to 220 and let me off the diet.  I immediately went back to 240 and have been hanging at that weight since.  I have cut back on my eating and getting out as much as possible.  Was mowing lawns for 6 different people at one time plus cutting weeds and brush.  Was really feeling great all this time.  Now I am down to my own yard for mowing.  The people are paying someone else to do less of what I used to do for them.  So I get to go flying more often now, even in the winds of Kansas.  John Bender stated one day that control line flying is the best aerobic exercise a person can get.  All the bending, stooping and walking.  I am fortunate enough that I am not having to take pills to stay alive.  Have fun,  DOC Holliday

[Steve Fitton]

My co-pay is $30, and they won't give me more than a month's supply of either Niaspan ($$$)  (time release Niacin for cholesterol) or Hydochlorothiazide (cheap) (for bp). I got my Dr. to prescribe a whole HCTZ, tho I only take 1/2 a pill a day, so that cuts my cost in half. I'm supposed to take two Niaspans a day, but don't. Next time I see him, I'll see if I can work that angle on the expensive stuff, or find something cheap, because this stuff makes my hair burst into flames... (well, it feels like it!). Man, talk about "hot flashes". 

Don't we have an MD in our midst, who can prescribe PA .75's and SV-11 kits??? Even at $30 co-pay, that's right reasonable! I think Randy Smith should get one of those online Medical Degrees, don't you? Of course, he'd have to hire a half dozen office babes to fill out all the paperwork, but that's a win-win-win situation, right???  Steve

PS: What really wears me out (and I go to the gym and have strong legs...100 leg presses at 365 lbs per visit), is walking around on the rough ground at the field...especially flying. It's real hard to fly decently when you're stumbling around, just trying not to fall down.

from his mrs. the Dr. says take an aspirin (a big one 325mg) about 1/2 hour before you take the niaspan and it won't give you the flushes.  You need to work up to your dose and take it devotedly or it will continue to turn your hair on fire 

[Steve Fitton]

Steve:

Ask your doctor about some of the over the counter Time releaded Niacins  They are pretty cheap.

There is immediate, sustained release, and extended release which is what the Niaspan is.

Each of these does a particular part in cholesterol reduction according to my information. 

I use a sustained release product that is widely recommended called Endur-acin from endurance products in Oregon.  It has done wonders for me and no side effects that I had with some of the other products like Niaspan--and it is very inexpensive--no Rx.

FWIW

Curt

 
From Fitton's wife/dr.     DO NOT USE OTC extended release Niacins.   I have not seen anything on the Endur-acin of which you speak but seriously warn against these because of liver problems.   You can use immediate release but be ready for the flush.   If you titrate up (go up slowly, like once every two weeks) you can probably handle the immediate release at bedtime.  Start with 250mg and go up slowly if you want something cheap

[Bill Little]

Mr. Fitton (or should be Dr. Fitton??) how about the "wonder drug" for diabetic weight loss??  I will happily VOLUNTEER for any and all study groups!  Like TODAY! 

Steve, you going to make it to Huntersville??   Bring a Classic plane, I feel like kicking your sorry butt with my VULCAN!!!!!!                                       

And yes, Virginia, there IS a Stunt News Column from District 4 this time, complete with pictures.  Had to get Aaron to transfer the pictures from a DVD to the appropriate format.  It took more than I thought it would.

[EddyR]

I made every excuse there is "I can't loose weight" Well my big C went to 350+ and I  told my self there is a small guy in there some where.The early part of 2006 I started on a breakfast of cereal at least four days a week and a apple for lunch. Not much exercise. I ate smaller but normal supper and a whole pizza at least one a week. It was hard for a week and then it got easy to the point I didn't want to eat very often. My cholesterol went down to 100 and I was able to stop taking blood pressure pills after 20 years It took four months and I lost 40 pounds. Size 42 pants to a 35. Three months ago I started riding bicycle again after 35 years and I started to gain weight but I kept getting smaller. I was building muscle mass. I started at 220+ and I weigh 178 today. To my surprise my stomach was the first to go. Still got those love handles. Gene Martine said I had skinny legs. From Gene that is a real compliment. It has been my experience that most people can't loose weight doing exercise unless they go to an extreme. For many years I would lose 15 pounds and gain it back. Now I just don't seem to gain it back. I don't eat as much as I use to and that is the answer for me.
Ed

[Steve Fitton]

Mr. Fitton (or should be Dr. Fitton??) how about the "wonder drug" for diabetic weight loss??  I will happily VOLUNTEER for any and all study groups!  Like TODAY! 

Steve, you going to make it to Huntersville??   Bring a Classic plane, I feel like kicking your sorry butt with my VULCAN!!!!!!                                       

And yes, Virginia, there IS a Stunt News Column from District 4 this time, complete with pictures.  Had to get Aaron to transfer the pictures from a DVD to the appropriate format.  It took more than I thought it would.

  Well, when the wonder drug for diabetes comes out, i'm sure Dr Kate will make me post the revelation on all the proper stunt forums.  Its not here yet, but believe it or not, they are indeed working on some drugs to do just that...

Oh, and be careful Mr Bear, as you might do well to remember that my PA spraybar equipped Nobler is running well and ready to pound you down to the ground in Classic at Huntersville!!

Steve

[Bill Heher]

Hello everyone- it's the guy in the glass house speaking up. I'm right in there with most of us ( maybe a bit younger at 48), 6' 220 lbs, with about 30 lbs hanging right around my belt line.
Now for the kicker- I am married to a Registered Dietian with over 25 years of clinical experience. She has told me plenty of times ( more than I care to count) that I need to do 2 things, eat less and get off my butt.

It is a simple program - but darn hard to follow. I travel a lot, eat out every meal for weeks at a time, and am usually jet lagged or just plain tired from working 10-15 hrs at a shot. I found that if I have cereal/fruit/yogurt for breakfast, soup/salad for lunch, and a reasonable ( in reality SMALL) supper, I maintain or lose weight at a 1-2 lb a week rate. Add 1/2 hr of treadmill or swimming a day and it really does make weight come off. Problem is- stop the excersise or get back to " normal American eating" and all that weight that took weeks to lose is back in no time.

I need to find a circle in each city I travel to, pack the old OS 25 and lines/handle/hardware along, and buy an ARF F/S to fly. I could put it together the 1st couple of nights, and fly it until time to move on. Pull the engine and give the plane to the locals for an intro plane ( if it is still flyable). I wonder if I can get the Dr. to write me an Rx for 1 ARF F/S a month- that would be the ticket.

[Bill Little]

  Well, when the wonder drug for diabetes comes out, i'm sure Dr Kate will make me post the revelation on all the proper stunt forums.  Its not here yet, but believe it or not, they are indeed working on some drugs to do just that...

Oh, and be careful Mr Bear, as you might do well to remember that my PA spraybar equipped Nobler is running well and ready to pound you down to the ground in Classic at Huntersville!!

Steve

Bring it on,there, Big Boy!!!!!!           

Looking forward to seeing you in about  month.

BTW: We got out for some flying today.  I really, really, like the Vulcan.

[Will Hinton]

Okay guys, here we go.  I'm six-one with a skinny man's frame.  I had gained up to the 184 mark when I was diagnosed with diabetes ten years ago.  I was one of the fortunate ones, as soon as I cut out all the sugar I lost 14 pounds in three weeks!  It has pretty much stayed off until my heart problems kept me from doing my 2 to 3 miles a day six days a week.  Then I slipped back up to 176.  I'm healthy again and holding there with excersize & diet.
My family history has diabetes present throughout, and each story is different.  My point is this - the single most effective way of controling my sugar has been CONSISTENT excersize!  when I drop off, it creeps up, when I do my workouts, back down it comes.  The key is a consistent program, however strenuous or light, but do something.  (Buy more fuel?)
This thing can be licked, but not without work and dedication on our part.  Go gettem guys!!  We want you to hang around for a looooong time.     
Blessings,
Will

[Rob Killick]

Hi ,

I have had juvenile diabetes for 41 years (diagnosed in 1967).
I treated myself badly for a good number of years , lost my eyesight and went through nine surgeries , to regain my vision ...

Now , Ive learned my lesson the hard way . I take BP meds and HAVE to maintain my physical body to help my kidney damage .

So ...

What I'm saying is keep active (flying is good , ride the bike , or walk) and see your GP often . The consequences are not a good thing .
Eat well and healthy and try to stick to a routine (I know ... boring) .
It's better to be spinning in the circle rather than on the sidelines sidelined  .

[Bill Little]

Hi Guys,

Just returned from the DR. a *little* while ago.  Glucose levels up and I am going to participate in a *STUDY* here at the Medical Center.  I am going on Insulin and everything is provided through the study. 

Several physical, and other health, matters have almost shut down my exercise regiment.  Too many years of physically ABUSING my body!

We will see how this all shakes out.  I NEED to get back into a very healthy state, and am willing to do whatever it takes.

[Ron King]

Several physical, and other health, matters have almost shut down my exercise regiment.  Too many years of physically ABUSING my body!

Bill,

If I had known I was going to live this long, I would have taken better care of my body, too.   

Oh well.... What's done it done and the best thing to do is move forward with a positive attitude. My doctor told me that I don't have to run any marathons; walking is fine - as long as I do it regularly.

Hang in there. You are in our prayers.

Ron

[Bill Little]

Bill,

If I had known I was going to live this long, I would have taken better care of my body, too.   

Oh well.... What's done it done and the best thing to do is move forward with a positive attitude. My doctor told me that I don't have to run any marathons; walking is fine - as long as I do it regularly.

Hang in there. You are in our prayers.

Ron

Thanks, a lot, Ron.  I DO appreciate it.  Looks like I am in for a MRI of my left shoulder before long.  

The constant pain in the legs might have to wait a *little* longer!   (at least my knees are not hurting......)