Improving Health through Diabetes Control
The same glucose monitoring system also made all the difference for Camille Taylor, 51, a medical practice administrator who lives in Garfield, New Jersey. Diagnosed nearly 30 years ago with type 2 diabetes after developing gestational (pregnancy-related) diabetes, she knows all too well how difficult it is to manage the disease. After years of failing to get her blood sugar under control, she turned to the team at Hackensack University Medical Center in spring 2020. "I made up my mind that it was time to get it together," she noted. Colette Knight, MD, chair of the Inserra Family Diabetes Institute and director of the hospital's endocrinology division, got to know Camille's history and preferences — for example, she didn't like taking insulin because it made her gain weight — and created a personalized plan of care that worked for her. "I hadn't had in-range glucose numbers in years. I was so happy!" said Camille.
Her plan included newer diabetes medications and better ways to use insulin, along with dietary guidance such as eating multiple smaller meals. The continuous glucose monitor made it easier for her to track and respond to her blood sugar levels. "It was life changing for me. I can check glucose anytime throughout the day. It keeps me conscious of how what I eat affects my body," she explained.
https://www.newswise.com/articles/improving-health-through-diabetes-control
Having Trouble With Your Diabetes? Try These Tips
Years ago, diabetes seemed like a very mysterious and sometimes terrifying disease. It almost seemed like a death sentence. You couldn't eat any sugar and you would be tied to insulin injections for the rest of your life. However, as we have learned more about the disease there are many steps you can follow to make life with this disease much more livable. Check these hints out:
There are tons of protein options, include dairy, eggs and legumes. You will enjoy eating more if you diversify things.
If you have diabetes, talk to your insurance provider and healthcare provider to see if an insulin pump might be a helpful and affordable thing for you. While expensive and more difficult to maintain, it can provide your body with a more stable insulin level, which may be helpful for some patients.
Diabetics should never EVER skip a meal! If you've planned to eat, then you must eat, or else your medication can drop your blood sugar so low you end up getting very sick. At least have a drink of juice or milk and some of your food so that your body gets a boost of energy.
If you are diabetic, be sure to wear loose-fitting socks and stockings. Special socks are available for diabetics that have more stretch around the ankles and legs, to provide better comfort and circulation, as well as, to help keep your feet and legs healthier. Good circulation is imperative for the legs and feet of diabetics.
Don't worry about having a "Diabetes Bag" that you carry around with you, just keep syringes in your purse, jacket pockets, car, and desk at work. Keep your meter and insulin with you in a small bag or your purse and you'll be ready for injections no matter where you end up.
If you are the primary caregiver of a person with diabetes, you may need support also. You carry a heavy load caring for and making decisions for your loved one as well as monitoring their diet and lifestyle to keep them healthy. If you feel overwhelmed, here ask for help. Your doctor can recommend respite care to give you a break, or even a nurse to help with care. You don't have to do it alone.
Don't use alcohol swabs before an insulin injection. It's actually unnecessary, as long as your skin, hands, and needle are clean. Alcohol swabs will dry out the skin, making it more likely that the injection site will stay open. This can actually increase the risk of an infection at the site.
Eat foods rich in fiber. By eating fruits, vegetables, and grains you will improve your diet. You will lose weight and feel great. Fiber can help give you more control over your blood sugar and lower your chances of getting heart disease. Other sources of fiber include nuts, seeds, and beans.
To help yourself harmful foods during the holiday season, eat a low glycemic index snack before heading out to parties. This will curb your appetite and will help you to only enjoy treats in moderation. Splurge only on the foods you love the most, and avoid snacks like dips and crackers.
Diabetics who notice that their fingernails and toenails are becoming very thick and even pulling away from the nail bed may actually have a fungal infection. Fungal infections are more common in people with diabetes; diabetes may also make them more likely to suffer liver damage from common anti-fungal medications. If your doctor prescribes an oral medication, be sure to have regular blood work during therapy.
In conclusion, diabetes is a common condition for many people. The number of those suffering from diabetes rises each year, with younger ages contracting it. Diabetes can be genetically based, or based on dietary and lifestyle choices. By using the advice from this article, you can decrease your chances of getting diabetes.