[Ronin]

Hi Felinefan!

As to meters: they are not 100% "accurate" but they are accurate to themselves. Meaning, as long as you use the same meter the relative results will show readings that are correct relative to the accuracy of that meter. Therefore, lower or higher readings do reflect what is happening with your BG levels.

Is Pre-D a legitimate diagnosis? We've had more than a few threads on this topic already (and will have more in the future). There are three basic camps:

1. Pre-D is pure bull so ignore it

2. Pre-D is legitimate and taking steps will reduce your probabaility for developing diabetes

3. Pre-D is actually diabetes so you have to take action now

Pick whatever one works for you. My personal take is that it is both a legitimate diagnosis and "Fair-Warning" that will allow you to delay the onset of actual diabetes (I'm in the genetic camp although there is a lot of data supporting the environmental school of thought).

As to "Forbiden Foods" that is always a point of contention. What I have found to work is to reduce portion sizes of those foods that you know will elevate your BG levels. We Americans tend to go with portion sizes that are way too big from the start.

Finally, diabetes is not a death sentance. Thousands upon thousands of people live a full life with diabetes. The best thing that can come of your situation will be that you will change your life style and never develop bad diabetic symptoms. Diet, exercise, and occasionally medications work.