Tender. Loving. Care.
We could all use a little more of that.
Lately, I’ve had to face a hard truth — my diabetes is not under control. My blood sugar is high, my weight is up, and my gums are a mess. And yet… I haven’t been doing much to change my habits. It’s easy to talk about people who struggle with their health, but the truth is, I’m no different. Every day I make choices that put my own health at risk.
Take this morning, for example: I had multigrain toast absolutely covered in Nutella. Not a “just-a-little” situation — I mean covered. Then, of course, I turned around and complained about how awful I felt and how dry and swollen my hands were. The pattern is clear — I keep sabotaging myself.
A Look Back
Back in my freshman year of college, I decided I needed to make a big change. After months of ups and downs, I finally focused on both my mental and physical health. Within six months, I lost over 40 pounds through diet and exercise — going from around 150 pounds to 105.
In the beginning, though, my diet was pretty extreme. I ate very low-carb, counted calories religiously, and allowed myself only one cheat meal a week. Eventually, I relaxed into a more balanced diet and felt healthier overall — confident, lighter, and more “me.” This was all before I was diagnosed with diabetes.
Fast Forward to Now
Over time, I slipped back into old habits. I’ve regained the weight and lost most of the muscle I worked so hard for. That wouldn’t be the end of the world… if I weren’t diabetic. But now, my blood sugar, diet, and exercise matter more than ever.
Honestly, it’s tough. When I get home and see a big plate of pasta waiting for me, it feels impossible to resist. But I know I need to find balance again. My body has been trying to tell me something — I’ve been sick more often, with weird flu-like illnesses, and I was even hospitalized not long ago. Maybe those things are connected, maybe not. But one thing is clear: my diabetes being out of control definitely isn’t helping.
Moving Forward with Care
I know I can’t keep blaming being busy, broke, or tired. At some point, I have to take responsibility and start treating my body with the same tender, loving care I give to others.
So that’s my goal — to show myself a little more grace and discipline at the same time. To eat better, move more, and find a healthier balance with diabetes.
If you’ve gone through something similar, I’d love to hear your story. Drop your advice, struggles, or little wins in the comments — let’s lift each other up.
Cupcakes & Tea with Elizabeth 