Blood Glucose Meters Or Urine Test Strips – Which is Best to Monitor Your Diabetes
For every diabetic monitoring your own blood glucose (sugar) levels can be vitally important in controlling your diabetes. The current treatments in diabetes whether medicines or diet focus on trying to keep blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible.
There are two main ways to monitor the body's glucose levels, testing for "blood" glucose and testing for "urine" glucose. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages. Which method you choose depends on what your doctor advises you.
Blood Glucose Meters
Testing blood glucose levels has become very simple and very accessible thanks to a whole range of blood glucose meters on the market. Checking glucose in this way is the most accurate method. This is especially important for patients with Type 1 Diabetes (Insulin dependent) and some patients with Type 2 Diabetes requiring insulin. This is because some these patients can make adjustments to their insulin dose depending on the blood glucose test results. Also patients with diabetes may experience very low blood glucose levels called "hypoglycaemia" or very high blood glucose levels called "hyperglycaemia". Often there are signs and symptoms of both. Using a blood glucose meter to get an exact reading can help reassure or confirm that action must be taken.
How Does A Blood Glucose Meter Work?
The 2 main meters on the market at present are Accu-chek Aviva and One Touch Ultra. Both meters use the same basic principle. A blood sample is taken usually from the finger using a finger pricking device. The sample is placed on a specially coated test strip which is then inserted into the blood glucose meter. Within a minute the meter will give you a result. The main drawback of this method is that it does require pricking your finger each time to take a blood sample. This for some can be nuisance. However, with recent advances in meter technology the amount of blood required for Accu-chek Aviva and One Touch Ultra is minimal. This in turn leads to less pain when pricking the finger.
Urine Testing
Urine strips have the advantage of being pain free but the disadvantage of not bring as accurate as a blood glucose meter.
For some, urine testing is a more then adequate method to test glucose especially for diabetics who do not need exact blood glucose levels. Glucose can take time to appear in the urine. Thus always use a blood glucose meter when testing for low blood glucose levels (hypoglycaemia) as it will give you an accurate reading at that time.
How To Use Urine Testing Strips
The main two makes of glucose testing strips are and Diastix. Click on Clinistix to learn more about how to use the urine strips.
Interpreting Your Results
How you interpret your results depends very much on the goals your doctor has set out for you and what you are testing for. A key point to remember is that blood glucose levels will be affected by food and diabetic medication.
Diabetes- Diabetes symptoms, causes, and treatment.
Diabetes
Diabetes is the most common endocrine disorder and affecting more than 26 million people in the United States. The condition causes blood sugar level to display abnormal patterns. When left untreated, patients faces other medical issues that increase in the severity as time passes. Many people have learn to control diabetes with simple home remedies.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes also refers to as blood sugar affects the way the body uses blood glucose. Serving as an important source of energy for the muscles, cells and tissues, glucose plays a vital role in your health. A person diagnosis with diabetes either has trouble making insulin (type 1 diabetes) or does not properly respond to the affects of insulin (type 2 diabetes). Diabetes can also arise in pregnant women this is refer to as gestational diabetes.
Causes and symptoms of Diabetes
Patients with type 1 diabetes, experience a battle between their immune system and insulin producing cells in the pancreas.
The immune system generally attacks harmful bacteria, but diabetic patients some reason face a system that attacks the cells associated with insulin, leaving the body with little to no insulin. A lack of insulin leads to a build up of sugar in the bloodstream.
Patients with type 2 diabetes have cells that are resistant to the action of insulin. The pancreas also do not make enough insulin to rise above deficiency. Sugar accumulates in the bloodstream causing symptoms to emerge. No one knows why this type of diabetes surfaces but lack of inactivity and excessive fat contribute to this condition.
During pregnancy, an increase of hormones in the body can cause cells to become increasingly resistant to insulin. The majority of women suffering gestational diabetes resume their normal health after giving birth.
frequent urination, increased thirst, extreme hunger, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurry vision, sores that heal slowly, and frequent infections such as skin, vaginal, or gum problems.
Diabetes remedies- home remedies
Cook with olive oil to control blood sugar levels without increasing cholesterol levels.
Consuming 1/2 tablespoon of bay leaves may lower blood sugar, insert a couple of bay leaves into your food.
Peel the leaves off of strawberries to create a tea. Put leaves in a cup of boiling water and draw for 15 minutes and strain off liquid and drink every six hours.
Some carbohydrates are proven to lower blood sugar without affecting cholesterol levels such as macadamia nuts.
For diabetics onion provides quecetin- a substance that often associated with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Onion also helps lower blood sugar.
Eat peanuts to keep blood sugar levels low.
A low fiber diet with fiber rich foods can help diabetics control their cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Pile on the legumes, oats, barley and fruits on your plate.
Incorporate flax seeds in your food which helps to metabolize blood sugar. Add to cereal, in glass of water, sprinkle on top foods etc.
Walk regularly to normalize body weight and fight insulin resistance. It is suggested that diabetes walk for 45 minutes to an hour.
Soybeans and soybean products provide diabetics with healthy options for their diet by offering ample supply of iron, proteins, vitamin A, fiber and calcium.
Sip on black tea to see a significant reduction in blood sugar levels.
Add garlic when cooking to aid in maintenance of diabetes. Eating garlic especially raw helps control blood sugar levels.
Some research have suggested that taking a small amount of vinegar before meals to control blood sugar levels.
Adding beans to your dishes will help reduce blood sugar levels after meals, as it delays a drop in blood sugar which occurs later in the day or night.
Include magnesium in your food to help control blood sugar. Foods such as pumpkin seeds, sweet potato, almonds, soybeans, chickpeas, whole grain bread, brown rice, and peanut butter.
Boil kidney beans, white beans, navy beans, lima beans and northern beans to create a tea to help flush out toxins from the pancreas.
Some diabetics get a two fold benefits when taking large quantities of aspirin for chronic- which helps lower blood sugar levels.
When drinking a cup of black tea, add a pinch of turmeric, cinnamon, and bay leaf and steep for 10 minutes and drink.
Prepare a tea of three tablespoons of cinnamon with a pinch of baking soda added to cup of boiling water.
Diabetes Diet Diabetes Meal Plan And Sample Menu
What is Diabetes?
, which is more commonly known as "blood sugar" is a situation wherein there is an excessive level of glucose in the bloodstream.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Why and how does this happen?
In order to understand that, we need to know a little bit about metabolism. Metabolism is defined as the way our bodies use digested food for energy and growth. All the food that we consume gets broken down into glucose eventually, which is a form of sugar in our blood. Glucose is also one of the principal sources of fuel for our bodies.
When the food that we eat gets digested, the glucose enters our bloodstream. From the bloodstream it enters the cells with the help of insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas which aids in lowering the level of sugar in the blood by releasing the glucose to the cells. Hence insulin plays a very important role in our digestive system.
Now due to some reason if the pancreas do not produce any insulin at all or an insufficient amount insulin or the cells do not respond properly to the produced insulin, the level of glucose in the blood would start to build up which would result in a diabetic condition.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Types of Diabetes
There are three main types of diabetes:
Type 1 - No insulin is produced at all.
Type 2 - Enough insulin is not produced or it is not working properly.
Gestational Diabetes - Diabetes develops only during pregnancy.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Understanding the basics of a Diabetic diet
Food is classified into the following 4 categories.
which includes Fibers
Proteins
Fats
Vitamins and Minerals
The time taken for each type of food to get broken down into glucose and hit the bloodstream is different. If the food has high sugar content like sweets or fruits it happens almost immediately. Next is carbohydrates, which take about 1 - 2 hours. Proteins take about 4 hours and fats about 6 - 8 hours to disintegrate. Again the disintegration time also depends on the complexity of the food molecule.
The basic diabetes meal plan should include a balanced diet comprising of adequate and appropriate quantities of each food type so that the glucose hits the bloodstream at a regular pace.
Hence, it is recommended to eat at least five to six small meals in a day along with some light exercise such as walking to help the digestive system function properly and remain healthy.
Another important factor is to control obesity. Obesity increases the risk of diabetes and heart diseases. Most patients with Type 2 diabetes are asked to lose weight to control the level of blood glucose in their body. So it is crucial to keep your body fat percentage in check through diet and exercise.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Healthy carbohydrates
Carbohydrates include sugars and starches and constitute the major source of energy for our body. But they can also be a menace if they are not burned up quickly. Hence it is important to know which carbs to consume in order to maintain a steady level of glucose in the blood. Healthy carbs to be included in your diet are:
Fruits
Leafy vegetables
Whole grains
Legumes (pulses, beans, peas)
Low fat dairy products such as yogurt
-------------------------------------------------
Foods with high fiber content
Fibers are the non - digestible carbohydrates in vegetables and fruits. Fiber rich foods are:
Vegetables
Fruits
Nuts
Legumes
Whole wheat flour
Brown rice
Cereals such as whole wheat pasta
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fish
Fishes which have lower fat content are a healthier option than meats with higher fat content. Fish can be added to your diet plan at least twice a week. Examples are tuna, cod, salmon, mackerel and herring. However care must be taken to avoid fried fish or fishes with a high level of mercury.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fats
Fats must be consumed with care as they can increase the cholesterol level. Monosaturated and polysaturated fats such as walnuts, almonds, olives, avocados and peanut oil can be consumed.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Water And Exercise
Drink lots of water as it will flush your system and aid in digestion.
It is also important to eat all your meals on time and not to skip any so that your blood glucose level does not fluctuate drastically.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturated fats
Dairy products and animal proteins with high fat content must be avoided. Examples are beef, bacon, dairy products such as cream, cheese, butter and ghee, coconut oil and chocolate.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trans fats
Trans fats are unsaturated fats and they must be avoided completely. Examples are processed foods, baked goods, fried foods and margarine.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cholesterol
Again dairy products and animal proteins with high fat content will contain more cholesterol and must be avoided. Some examples are egg yolks, organ meats such as liver, shellfish such as shrimp and lobster, milk cheese and ice cream.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sodium
It is recommended to consume less than 2000 mg of sodium in a day. Foods rich in sodium are cured meats such as bacon, salted nuts, canned beans and potato chips. Foods low in sodium are fresh fruits and vegetables and unsalted meats.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sodas
Artificially flavored soft drinks and fruit punches which have a very high sugar content must be avoided completely.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exercise
Along with a healthy diet exercise is equally important in maintaining the optimal blood glucose level. The more you exercise the more energy you will burn which means that your cells will use more glucose from your bloodstream to replenish their fuel.
You don't have to resort to rigorous but you can stick to the ones of moderate intensity. Some examples are:
Brisk walking
Swimming
Cycling
Or if you are not sure what to do, join a gym and do some basic exercises like walking on a treadmill or cycling for 30 mins at least 5 days a week.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Key Steps To Managing Your Diabetes
Be smart and take advantage of the fact that you play a huge role in blood glucose (sugar) control. Yes, it does require you to think about your actions moreso than the average person, however, it will be more than worth it. With diabetes, you need a support system: doctors with different specialties, certified diabetes educators, nurses, dietitians, exercise specialists, psychologist and especially family and friends. Share your feelings and do your best!
Consider and moderate carbohydrates (starch, fruit, milk) at each meal/snack and distribute them throughout the day.
Moderate carbohydrate consumption should be approximately 30-60 grams per meal. Find out the effect of that amount on YOUR blood sugar levels to determine any changes necessary. Slower digesting foods (low glycemic index/load) are best for a slower rise in blood sugar over a longer period of time. You DO NOT want a rapid rise in blood sugar - unless you are treating a low blood sugar! Examples are: higher fiber/dense carbohydrates (brown rice, wholegrain bread/rye/pumpernickel, high fiber cereals, sweet potatoes, etc.), protein (heart healthier choices are fish, shellfish, poultry, lean meat) and fat (heart healthier choices are nuts, nut butters, olive and canola oil, avocados).
Aim for approximately 15-30 grams of carbohydrates for your snacks (by testing before the next meal you will see its effect on your glucose level). Vary the times you carry out blood glucose testing otherwise directed by your healthcare team. Look for patterns by recording your numbers over a period of time. Test before meals and 2 hours after the start of a meal. Glucose should rise no more than approximately 50 points. If it rises higher, you may need to decrease your carbohydrates (but always eat them!), have your medication adjusted, reduce stress or exercise! Another good time to test your glucose is at bedtime and the next morning. Keep a journal/logbook to share this information with your healthcare team to stay in your best control. Balance your blood sugar: eat every 3-4 hours to avoid fluctuating (high and low) blood sugar. Eating more frequently usually prevents overeating at the next meal and helps to raise your metabolism. Leave at least a 2-hour window between your meals and snacks. Blood glucose may be the highest 2 hours after your meal so eating that soon may send it up even higher.
Know your A1c! This is a 3-month blood sugar average that gives you insight into your diabetes control. 7% or less is recommended by the American Diabetes Association (equal to an average of 154 mg/dL). You can have this blood test done at a laboratory or with an at home A1c kit. Don't be in the dark. Find out what you don't know by testing your blood sugar. It will give you valuable information to help in your journey of self-management. Diabetic testing supplies are available. Use them wisely. Since everyone with diabetes is unique, it is important to find out what is affecting your blood sugar and to what degree. Food, exercise, stress, medication, hormone levels and how your body operates all have an affect on your blood sugar level. By testing, you provide yourself and your healthcare team information to help determine a new plan of action if necessary.
safehaven at lenox
This really should be at the prime of your priority record when hunting for an Atlanta Assisted Living Neighborhood for your household member, for the reason that he or she is going to remain there for several years to arrive, if not for his or her complete lifestyle. You have to have to double examine the facilities previous to you deliver your loved a person to a single of these amenities.
The clear elements to glimpse for are the types and measurements of rooms provided, the heating, sanitation, air circulation, total of sun-light, and cleanliness, and so on. In addition, there are quite a few not-so-obvious variables like the social existence in the assisted residing dwelling, the types of men and women residing there and their stages of ADLs, the stage of support made available, and the variety of every day planned activities. All of these issues will need to be examined in advance of you send your family member there.
Question two: Who will be there to aid when your cherished 1 demands someone?
Though men and women living in Atlanta Assisted Dwelling Communities do not have to have the total of treatment demanded by men and women residing in nursing households, nevertheless, they need to have some degree of guidance in their each day lives. Analyze not only the excellent, frequency, and the immediacy of health-related and each day care offered by the dwelling, but also analyze the quality and habits of people today offering them. Are the individuals attending your cherished an individual caring ample? Are they pleasant? Do they smile normally and speak kindly to residents?
You also really should converse to the particular person who will be accountable for meeting any basic or certain need (both equally health care and non-health) of your family member. The goal is to make positive your cherished a person will get the treatment and support he or she requires each time, with no any delay or reduction in superior, whatsoever.
Question 3: How considerably will it price tag?
Cash must not be your consideration when looking for an Atlanta Assisted Dwelling Group for your loved a single. Even so, you nonetheless will need to know how a lot cash you ought to set aside every month so that your loved ones member will get all the treatment he or she needs. I am a accurate "southna'" woman who travels/shops in Atlanta typically so this e-book was a distinctive treat for me in additional methods than an individual!
Half the time, I was craving bakery desserts and the other time I was thinking "I know where that is! That's these kinds of a southern point. Oh my gosh, that's so legitimate!" Every character created me feel of another person I understood or comparable scenario. If owning a baseball wedding with baseball glove cake and tomahawk centerpieces look strange, you don't know how several die very difficult Atlanta Brave's supporters there are in Atlanta. I can see it taking place.
To me, the funniest line in the e-book was when Emma's mother needs to transfer her sister to an assisted dwelling village in Sandy Springs, GA. She says
A Diabetic-Friendly Thanksgiving Dinner
Diabetic recipes for the holidays
If you are diabetic, you know that holiday dinners pose a special challenge. According to the National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, over 79 million Americans over the age of 20 are pre-diabetic. About 18 million of us have full-blown diabetes. Yikes!
Does this mean we should just skip Thanksgiving feasts altogether? Not at all. True, we're past the point where we can simply pull out Grandma's favorite recipe for sweet potato pie and bake away, lost in a cloud of white flour. We're just too -diabetic- a nation for that.
But what it does mean is that we have to be smart in planning our feasts. We have to start cooking with the -glycemic index- in mind. I've put together some ideas for Thanksgiving dinner that are delicious but low-glycemic or glycemic-neutral. Think of this as a -glycemic-smart- Thanksgiving cooking.
What Is the Glycemic Index?
The glycemic index ("GI") is a number that tells you whether a food is going to raise you blood sugar. Foods with high glycemic index numbers raise your blood sugar the fastest. These foods include white table sugar, most refined carbohydrates such as white bread, white potatoes and of course sugar-based desserts. Some foods that you think are healthy actually have moderately high glycemic index numbers, such as carrots.
High glycemic index foods are generally considered to those with a glycemic index number over 70. Low glycemic index foods generally have numbers less than 55.
The trick in -glycemic-smart- cooking is to aim for a meal that has a low GI number overall.
Protein
Meat is not really an issue for diabetics. Most protein is either glycemic-neutral or low-glycemic, meaning that they do not raise your blood sugar levels appreciably.
Bread
Think you have to skip bread at Thanksgiving if you're diabetic? Not necessarily. Breads such as rye or barley are low-glycemic. Try making a Thanksgiving stuffing from one of these ingredients instead of white meal or white bread:
1. Quinoa. This South American grain is mostly protein and is perfect for low-glycemic meal-planning.
2. Rye Bread Crumbs
3. Basmati Rice (brown)
Mashed Potatoes Substitute
White mashed potatoes raise blood sugar about as rapidly than white table sugar. To make a tasty substitute that is glycemic-neutral, try using cauliflower. Boil the cauliflower, then use a blender to produce a potato-like consistency. Add butter flakes, rosemary and pepper for flavor.
Sweet potatoes or yams are also a better choice than white potatoes. They are higher on the glycemic index than cauliflower but much lower than white potatoes.
Not all white potatoes are created equal. At least not in terms of their effect on your blood sugar levels. A 2005 study from researchers at the University of Toronto discovered glycemic values of white potatoes vary not just with the species of white potatoes but also with the cooking method you use.
Red potatoes, cold have a glycemic index number of 56, which is pretty low.
California white potatoes roasted have a glycemic index number of 72
Russet potatoes baked have a glycemic index number of 77
Instant white mashed have a glycemic index number of 88
Red Potatoes, boiled, have a surprisingly high glycemic index number of 89.
The morale of the story? First, when you buy your potatoes for Thanksgiving dinner, know your brands. Second, if you're set on using white potatoes, cook them, then cool them in the refrigerator to lower their GI number. Eat cool potato salad rather than hot white mashed potatoes.
Glycemic Index Number for Thanksgiving Dinner
Food
Turkey 0
Stuffing from white meal
Stuffing from Rye Bread 58
Stuffing from Barley 70
Stuffing from Quinoa 18 to 20
Mashed potatoes, mashed, white depends on type of potato, see above list
Mashed cauliflower 15
Mashed potatoes, sweet or yams 51 to 54
Basmati rice white 69
Basmati rice brown 56
Types Of Digital Thermometers – Putting Them To Make Use Of Accurately
Your body temperature is really a good indicator of one's wellness. In case it is too high, it is a sign that your body is fighting off illness. Check to see if you have a fever by following these types of steps concerning exactly how to use a thermometer. Determine precisely what kind of thermometer you're utilizing. There are many different forms of thermometers that you can use to take your temperature. Right now there is the conventional glass thermometer. It functions a little red line inside of it that rises and falls in accordance with your temperature.
There's the much more contemporary digital thermometer, which has a metal tip which reads your temperature plus a display screen that tells you your temperature. And presently there are a myriad of forehead and ear thermometers (mostly used on children) which can certainly be used just like a digital thermometer. The kind of thermometer you have will dictate its use, so make certain you know which kind you are utilizing. Digital thermometers are extremely correct, quick, and inexpensive.
You get a reading in about 30 seconds -- a genuine advantage with a sick and wiggling baby. You are able to use them rectally or below the armpit. They beep in case they're carried out and are straightforward to read. On the downside, they diminish precise in case dropped, and the batteries can expire at a crucial time. Digital thermometers are also an superb choice if you might be searching for a thermometer that's portable. Because this specific style of thermometer comes with a plastic cover, it is feasible to toss it inside your purse or suitcase anytime you will end up from your home.
Digital thermometers carry a high level of accuracy, and are very very simple to help keep. Since most of these thermometers run on button batteries, like those noticed in watches and hearing aids, you are able to buy replacements as needed. Plus, with a digital thermometer there's no need to sterilize the device in between utilizes. Just buy a package of disposable covers for your thermometer, and location a brand innovative cover on prior to each use.
Ear canal thermometers are the fastest, least obtrusive, and easiest to create use of once you get the hang of them. You can obtain a reading in two seconds. The devices are really accurate for children over one year of age, but they're significantly more costly than other types of thermometers and might be challenging to use at home. You must determine exactly how to tug correctly on the child's ear to appear into the ear canal. And in case the probe does not totally seal the ear canal, the reading may not be accurate.
Ear Thermometers- Ear thermometers are one other preferred choice, and have received lots of attention in current years. This style utilizes infrared technology to read and record the temperature of your child's eardrum. To make use of this device, just hold up to your child's ear, press a control button, and a reading will seem on the digital display in as little as two seconds. This is a fantastic choice whenever you have a child who's reluctant to have his temperature taken.
Senior Clinical Alert Systems
Needless to say we have been very satisfied with our purchase. The medical related alert system we purchased comes with a base which is plugged in to the telephone. It arrives with a pendant which can be worn all over the neck. We also got a few additional items, just in scenario mother forgot to wear hers. These ended up put in strategic areas, wherever she could attain them. The pendants are waterproof and she could get them to the shower as very well.
If you are in the current market for a Professional medical alarm Procedure then you by now know that the conclusion can be considerably overwhelming. With so quite a few unique choices in the marketplace it can be tricky to come to a decision which alarm program will be the ideal match for you or a loved an individual. Sad to say there is not a 'one size fits all' unit out there for the reason that every single individual's needs are distinctive. We want to guide you narrow down your research and uncover the proper alarm system for you.
There are two issues you need to have to look at when picking a medical alarm technique: dependability and value.
Here are a very few hints to enable you in the search:
Dependability
The main purpose for having a healthcare alarm unit is so that when an accident occurs you can for confident get guide--Uncertainty that your alarm procedure will work when required need to under no circumstances be a element.
Some corporations may well advertise that you can bathe or shower with their h2o resistant process but you may well want to really test the excellent print to verify that the item will still function if it will get submerged in a bath.
Whereas, H2o Evidence means it's impervious to h2o and can be submerged. A water evidence medical alert pendant presents you the independence to shower or bathe, understanding that if you slip - aid is just as button push away.
Reputation:
Would you obtain an unfamiliar brand name of auto from an unfamiliar dealership that just popped up around evening? I wish not. They may perhaps have even worn some of the aged types in advance of and been made pleasurable of at college. Because of these good reasons, if you have a youngster who is a teenager with a medical affliction, then you may will need to do a minimal convincing in purchase to make convinced they stay thoroughly guarded in the event of professional medical emergency.
However, clinical id necklaces are not what they employed to be. In truth with the quite a few new kinds and designs, a teenager will uncover it significantly less complicated to obtain an individual that will in shape their persona. Your teen may not fully recognize the critical value these health-related necklaces give, but you can make it less difficult for them to select and put on an individual by exhibiting them all the styles that are readily available now.
Pendant Model
There are medical related necklaces that are created to appear and experience like normal jewellery. With combinations of silver tone and gold tone metals, the necklaces will glance no distinctive from any other pendant your youngster might wear. This way, the necklace and their clinical situation will not stand out to other teenagers and embarrass your youngster.
Canine Tag Style
Canine tag necklaces are pretty favorite amongst today's youth. Typically, these puppy tags are engraved with different specifics.
What’s Your Blood Sugar Level Today
Are you a diabetic? This lens was created to help you control your blood sugar level by keeping track of your numbers here. There are 23.6 million children and adults in the United States, or 7.8% of the population, who have diabetes. An overwhelming amount! Do you have a doctor's appointment coming up soon? He/She might ask you what your blood sugar level has been lately and if you have a record of it here you will be able to write it down before your appointment. Yes, I know everyone will see it! But, if you want to help control your blood sugar level isn't it better to have a caring group of people to support you? Together we can get control of your blood sugar level and fight this terrible epidemic.
GET A VITAMIX BLENDER FOR A HEALTHIER YOU!!!
NO NEED TO GO TO THE GYMN TO EXERCISE!!! GET A WII FIT PLUS!!!
GET THE LATEST AND GREATEST TECHNOLOGY IN READING! GET A KINDLE!!!
Why I Created This Lens
Well as if the statistics of 23.6 million children and adults in the United States having diabetes wasn't enough. The main reason I created this lens is because my boyfriend Chip has been a diabetic since the age of 18. Recently we had a very bad scare where his blood sugar was extremely high, his blood pressure shot up, and low potassium. This put him in the hospital for 10 days! When he came out we changed some things in our lives. One of them being to check his blood sugar level every single morning and night. This lens is one way that we will make sure he keeps a check on it and we will be accountable for reporting it to our new Squidoo family. I hope that you will participate with us for a healthier world!
Vitamix Breakthrough Research
The Proof is Easy to See!
Breakthrough research from the University of Toronto shows that Vitamix processing may significantly enhance nutrient intake from whole foods.The results of a 2008 study at the University of Toronto clearly indicate that the Vitamix 5200 has the ability to disrupt plant cell wall structure and significantly reduce food particle size which may enhance the bioavailability of essential nutrients in fruits and vegetables.
Please check out this web site for all the info on how a Vitamix can help you!
Information On Diabetes From Different Resources
By Jackie Jones
Glucose, the primary energy source for human and animal cells, is a type of sugar that travels through the bloodstream. Glucose enters your body whenever you eat carbohydrate foods. Glucose levels are regulated by insulin and glucagon. Insulin is a hormone that is produced by the pancreas and released into the bloodstream when glucose levels rise.
Normal glucose levels fall between 70 and 150 mg. Levels typically are lower in the morning, and rise after meals. Blood sugar levels falling consistently above 150 are indicative of hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar. Chronic low levels, falling below 70, characterize hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. Hypoglycemia is a potentially fatal condition. Symptoms of this condition are lethargy, impaired mental functioning, irritability and loss of consciousness. Persistent hyperglycemia results in diabetes mellitus, which is the most common disease related to blood sugar regulation failure. Diabetes can cause eye, kidney and nerve damage.
A blood glucose test measures the amount of glucose in the bloodstream. Reasons for testing glucose levels are to check for diabetes, to monitor treatment of diabetes, and to check for hypoglycemia. There are several different types of glucose tests. The 'fasting blood sugar' test checks glucose levels after an eight-hour fast and is often the first test performed when checking for diabetes. For this test, levels have to fall between 70 and 99 in order to be considered normal. The 'two-hour postprandial blood sugar' test measures glucose levels two hours after eating a meal.
Normal glucose levels for this test fall between 70 and 145. Random blood sugar testing checks glucose levels randomly throughout the day, regardless of meal times. If levels vary widely, there could be a problem. Blood sugar levels should be between 70 and 125 in order to be considered normal for random testing. The 'oral glucose tolerance test' diagnoses diabetes and predicaments. This tests your blood after drinking a glucose drink. If you think you may have a blood sugar disorder, contact your primary care physician for testing. There are many conditions that can cause a change in your blood glucose levels. Normal results may vary depending on the lab.
For more about diabetes testing equipment and specific information on type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus, visit the Free Diabetic Supplies Center at today!
Major Types of Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes
Results from the body's failure to produce insulin, the hormone that "unlocks" the cells of the body, allowing glucose to enter and fuel them. It is estimated that 5-10% of Americans who are diagnosed with diabetes have type 1 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes
Results from insulin resistance (a condition in which the body fails to properly use insulin), combined with relative insulin deficiency. Most Americans who are diagnosed with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.
Gestational diabetes
Immediately after pregnancy, 5% to 10% of women with gestational diabetes are found to have diabetes, usually, type 2.
Pre-diabetes
Pre-diabetes is a condition that occurs when a person's blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. There are 57 million Americans who have pre-diabetes, in addition to the 23.6 million with diabetes.
Diabetes facts
The prevalence of diabetes has reached epidemic proportions.
WHO predicts that developing countries will bear the brunt of this epidemic in the 21st century, with 80% of all new cases of diabetes expected to appear in the developing countries by 2025.
In a generation, diabetes has had a six-fold increase. In 1985 there were an estimated 30 million people with diabetes. Today diabetes affects more than 230 million people, almost 6% of the world's adult population.
The number of people living with diabetes is expected to grow to 350 million in less than 20 years if action is not taken.
Diabetes is one ot the major causes of premature death worldwide. Every 10 seconds a person dies from diabetes-related causes. The death rates are predicted to rise by 25% over the next decade.
Diabetes is increasing faster in the world's developing economies than in developed countries. Seven out of ten countries with the highest number of people living with diabetes are in the developing world. With an estimated 35 million people with diabetes, India has the world's largest diabetes population.
Each year another 6 million people develop diabetes. In many countries in Asia, the Middle East, Oceania and the Caribbean, diabetes affects 12-20% of the adult population.
Diabetes is a silent epidemic that claims as many lives each year as HIV/AIDS. In 2007, diabetes will cause 3.5 million deaths globally.
If present trends persist, by 2025 the majority of people with diabetes in the developing countries will be in the 45-64 age group.
Type 2 diabetes is responsible for 90-95% of diabetes cases. 80% of type 2 diabetes is preventable by changing diet, increasing physical activity and improving the living environment.
Important numbers in diabetes management
Have you just been told you have diabetes or know someone who has?
It's a complicated disease. It can be managed fairly well, but it takes thought and preparation most of the time. It's not a disease that you can forget about.
One of the first things you learn is how to test your own blood sugar levels. At first, it seems like it's so often, that your fingers are like pin cushions. This does get better. Your fingers may not get entirely used to it, but most often, the frequency of testing goes down as you become more controlled and aware of your body.
What are those numbers?
Your blood sugar levels can range wildly from below 2.0 mmol/L in a severe hypoglycemic crisis to above 24, heading towards a serious hyperglycemic crisis.
The idea blood sugar levels are between 4.0 and 7.0 mmol/L before meals or after you've been fasting and between 5.0 and 10.0 mmol/L about two hours after eating.
Symptoms
If your blood sugar is too low (hypoglycemia), you may experience mood swings, blurry vision, sweating, severe hunger, shakiness, headache, extreme fatigue and dizziness. If your blood sugar is too high (hyperglycemia), you may experience thirst (dry mouth), blurry vision, frequent urge to urinate, and fatigue.
A trick that I used to give patients uses a few words. Unfortunately, I couldn't come up with words that made sense when using them with diabetes, but they do do the trick for some.
For signs of hyperglycemia, think THEFT .
TH - thirsty and dry mouth
E - Eyes are blurry
F - Frequent urge to urinate
T - Tired, extreme fatigue, exhausted
For hypoglycemia, think of two words: SHED and MESH.
S - Shakiness
H - Headache
E - Extreme fatigue
D - Dizziness
--
M - Mood swings
E - Eyes blurry
S - Sweating
H - Hunger
Useful Products For People With Diabetes
One Touch Ultra Mail Order Test Strips, 50 CT
ACCU-CHEK Aviva Mail Order Test Strips, 50-Count Box
Adult "The Original Diabetic" Minimum Pressure Comfort Top Sock 3-Pack
Bayer Dermal Therapy Hand, Elbow, Knee Care Cream
(Pack of 3)
WeeklyTrack Diabetes Management Kit
(The Complete Diabetes Self-Management Log Book)
ACCU-CHEK Compact Plus Meter Kit
A Rant About Chip's Hospital Stay This is a blog post I made in March 2009 on Nochipra's Blog Spot
Ok, I wasn't going to do this blog but the more I think about it, I think I should, if not just to get it off my chest! My boyfriend Chip had to go into the hospital on March 7 and came out on March 17. Without going into too much detail he was pretty bad off with pneumonia and a few other things going on. I have several issues that I would like to address about his stay (none of which are good!)
First! Why is it that when you go into a hospital that it takes an act of congress to get a room! We had to spend 22 hrs in the emergency room waiting for a bed to come "available". In other words (in my opinion)%u2026 you have to wait for the cleaning staff to come in and clean a room!
Second! How many different people do we have to give information to? There must have been at least 10 different people who came in wanting to know his name, date of birth, doctors names, insurance information, what meds he takes, etc. I can understand the name and date of birth stuff because every nurse wants to know she has the right patient but how many times do we have to give medicine and insurance info? After the first or second person it should be in the computer by then. I mean I even had a list of his meds they copied at the front desk!
Third! Why do some nurses have to be soooo mean! Chip cannot stand to have tape pulled off of his skin. He has a hairy chest and arms and about every nurse that came in there insisted on ripping it off of him without even giving him a warning even though we told them before that he hates it. I think a few of them learned their lesson though because when Chip was kind of out of it, I think he gave them a little something they weren't expecting too without knowing itJ
Fourth! When a doctor orders a new medicine for you why doesn't the nurse tell you when she brings it to you? Every time they brought his meds we asked what they were and a couple of times there was something he had never taken before? If we had not asked then he would have blindly taken anything they brought him when he was kind of out of it!
Fifth! Speaking about meds! Why does it usually take a whole day to get the medicines right! Chip has to take a lot of different meds for his kidney transplant, blood pressure, and pain and it seems like it takes forever to get everything straight! The first day he was getting one pill at this time and another the next hour til everything was approved!
Sixth! Now luckily Chip had either me or one of his family taking shifts to be with him 24 hrs a day. If we didn't, he would have been waiting for a nurse to come to his aide which for the most part could have been too late for some problems he was having. Even though we were there, there were times he had to have a nurse and it ended up being too late by the time she got there. Which in turn ended with them having to do a clean up. Now I understand there is a shortage of nurses and God knows you could not pay me enough money to do the great work they do but I just wish that their services were not spread so thin.
Seventh! Why is it that one day you get a choice of what you want for your next meal and the next day you don't? The whole time he was there he had two different food service people bring the food. One lady was extremely nice and asked what he wanted on his next meals and even brought something extra for me when I stayed with him; then there was an older woman who just popped in the room, dropped the tray off and didn't say a word or ask what he wanted for the next meal.
Eighth! Why does it take forever to get processed out of the hospital? The doctor had come in and told us he was going to do the paperwork to let him go home and then about an hour later the nurse comes in after Chip had his clothes on and says "Where are you going?" We told her the doctor just told us he was able to go home and we were just getting ready? She says "Well, let me go check and see if the papers are ready for him." So a few minutes later she comes in with the prescriptions and take home instructions and says "Ok, I guess you ready and leaves the room to call transportation for a wheelchair!" We wait a few minutes. Ummm%u2026. Excuse me? But he's still got an IV in his hand? I go out to tell the nurse and she come in giggling saying well " I guess you don't want to take that with you!" DUH!
Well I could probably go on but I think I got enough off my chest for now. At least he is better now and hopefully will not have to go back any time soon. These incidents are not just based from this hospital visit though! When we first started going to this hospital I really liked them because I thought they were the best and friendliest we had been to at that point; but it seems every hospital we have had to go to in the past had the same problems? Oh well, I guess hospital visits are not supposed to be like staying at the Ritz Carlton but I was expecting a little better service?
Let me say though I have the total utmost respect for what doctors and nurses have to go through to help the patients and I know for a fact, I am not the type to take on that type of job and responsibility. I'm not sure what nurses get paid but I know it's not enough for all the crap they have to go through. I just think it's the system that needs to be worked on and probably some communication problems as well.
GLUCOMETER – An essential tool for diabetes control
Diabetes Mellitus is silent killer. It works continuously behind the patients eye. Sometimes the patient don't know about the killer that is working inside him. Occasionally he went to a doctor for a different problem & during screening he was found to be diabetic. Patient becomes worried - all his favorite menus are going away from him. He going to lose the charms of life. Doctor has advised him to avoid sweets, fast foods, fatty foods. He need to take regular exercise. He is entering into a boring charmless life. But is that true? The truth is that you have to lose nothing but to be in a disciplined life. Whatever you do, you must keep your blood glucose under control. That is your ultimate responsibility for you, for all the organs to work optimally. Secondly you must have adequate knowledge regarding diabetes, its complications, complications of treatment & what to do when complication arises. Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin as a result blood glucose level rises up which spills over in urine. Insulin is a hormone that is needed by the body to convert sugar and other starches into useful energy. Body fails to produce adequate amount of insulin causing type-1 DM & body cant properly use insulin in type-2 DM. Type -1 include only 5-10% 0f diabetic patients & most of the rest type-2. There are some other special types Diabetes Mellitus(DM) like gestation diabetes which affects the pregnant ladies.
DM may cause some problem silently & some other acutely. Uncontrolled diabetes gradually & slowly destroys your eyes(retinopathy), kidneys(nephropathy), nerve(neuropathy), heart(myocardial infarction), brain(stroke -cerebrovascular diseases). It causes hypertension,gastrointestinal problems, peripheral vascular diseases culminating into amputation of your limbs. Again it may cause some acute problem like diabetic ketoacidosis (in type-1) & hyperosmolar nonketotic coma(in type-2). Both this condition leads the patient to coma due to very high blood glucose level. Again as a result of treatment, patient may go into hypoglycemic coma due to very low blood glucose. It sometimes damages the patients brain permanently if blood glucose is very low like 1.5 mmol/l or less. DM decreases patients immunity keeping him susceptible to life threatening infections.
All of these problems may be controlled if the patient can control his blood glucose level within the acceptable range. And this is possible by regular monitoring of blood glucose. You can measure your blood glucose in your home regularly in an almost painless procedure using a glucometer. Glucometer is blood glucose monitoring device which uses glucose oxidase or glucose dehydrogenase as reagent measure glucose in a colorimetric method. This gives you information whether you have normal or low or a high glucose level. Glucose level very according to age & feeding status.Normal ranges for blood glucose levels:
Infant (40 - 90 mg/dl)
Child
Child > 2 years to Adult (70 - 105 mg/dl)
Adult (70 - 105 mg/dl)
Elderly patients (50 years/more) often have a slightly elevated blood glucose level, but should not normally exceed 126 mg/dl.
In fasting state, in an adult 60 to 100 mg/dl is accepted normal. Below 60mg/dl is considered as hypoglycemia & above 140mg/dl is considered as hyperglycemia. Glucose level above 200mg/dl in 3 consecutive fasting blood glucose level is considered as diabetic. Blood glucose rises after meal. 2 hours after meal it ranges between 140 to 200 mg/dl. Any level above 260 mg/dl is considered diabetic. These levels vary slightly from study to study though the variations are negligible.
The patient can titrate his medication or food intake according to glucose level like when he feels hypoglycemic he may take oral glucose like a glass of juice orglucose gel to be applied in oral cavity or may use a glucagon injection which many diabetic patients carry with them. A hypoglycemic patient may present following symptoms Normal or rapid respirations, Pale, moist skin, sweating, Dizziness, headache, Rapid pulse, Normal or low BP, Altered mental status, Anxious or combative, Seizure or fainting, Coma, Weakness simulating CVA. Most of time the patients can feel themselves & take some food early get relieved. Some unlucky patients may become unconscious & may need hospitalization.
On the other hand most of the time hyperglycemia remain unnoticed unless it very high causing diabetic coma. This unnoticed hyperglycemia slowly poisons the patient.this can be prevented by regular checking using a glucometer.