Diabetic Diet Zone

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http://insul-opt.com Learn about INSUL OPT, a natural remedy to balance the effects of high blood glucose for Americans and others with Diabetes. Supports immune system, heart health, cells and more.

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Discover the importance of controlling blood sugars for a diabetic diet in this free healthy living video.

Expert: Brenda Thompson
Bio: Brenda Thompson is a registered dietician and professional chef with the Westlake Market H.E.B. in Austin, Texas.
Filmmaker: Drew Noah

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Continuous Blood Glucose Monitoring For Diabetes

Continuous blood glucose monitoring is an essential process taken in a diabetic patient’s life. Accurate knowing of glucose concentration level is the main purpose behind continuous blood glucose monitoring. For proper care, a diabetic patient should perform blood test at least once per day. But in the process of continuous blood glucose monitoring, the glucose level will be continuously monitored by an electronic device. By recognizing the amount of blood glucose level on a continuous basis, a diabetic patient can plan his diet accordingly.

Now we will come to the older and basic test process for glucose monitoring. This testing is usually done by prinking the fingertip of the patient and taking the drop of blood on a chemically active disposable test strip. The test strip is then inserted to a glucometer from which we will know the blood sugar level value. But research says that this method of determining blood sugar level will not be accurate since there is non uniform body blood flow. If the testing is done at places like arms and legs, the test results won’t be accurate. Accuracy will also depend upon parameters like type of test strips, quality of sugar monitors used and eye vision of patient. There comes the advantage and importance of using continuous blood glucose monitoring.

A continuous blood glucose monitor shows the rise and fall of glucose level continuously. Electronic sensor, link to the sensor and monitor are the three vital parts of a continuous sugar monitor. Let’s see the working of a continuous glucose monitoring. A sensor with sticky patch, attached to the patient’s body will detect the glucose level and sends data to the monitor. Monitor will be either carried in a bag or will be attached to the patient’s body. Monitor will then displays the latest glucose test results which will continue in each few minutes.

Continuous sugar monitor or CGM should also be tested and calibrated for its accuracy by comparing the test results with finger strip blood glucose test results. Senzime and FreeStyle Navigator are examples of continuous sugar monitoring products. A continuous blood glucose monitors identifies the glucose level in interstitial fluid whose glucose value will be lesser than the blood glucose level. Depending on data received from sensor, insulin pump injects the correct proportion of insulin to the patient’s body.

By analyzing the glucose level acquired by test result, a diabetic patient can plan and reorder his lifestyle. Frequency of testing depends on many factors like type of diabetes, treatments etc. Continuous glucose monitoring helps in determining proper insulin dosage and diet. Proper rearrangements can be done on insulin dosage, diet and exercise on the basis of this test result. It also shows us the body’s response to these medications. Some of the continuous sugar monitors is provided with alarms for giving alerts to the patients in condition of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. These alarm instructions helps diabetic patients in taking necessary precautions for maintaining the glucose level. Patients can easily self manage the glucose level by referring sugar monitor. Thus continuous blood glucose monitoring helps in providing a complete control over the health there by preventing the chance of risk due to risen and fallen glucose level.

Related Glucose Articles

I seem to have been rated down 4 times in an question that I answered yesterday in relation to diabetes where the blood glucose level was in the high 200′s. Maybe the levels are different for different countries. Is this the case? In Australia a normal blood suger is 4.5, not in the high 80′ to 90′s. Am I right or are other people making me out to be making up my information? The next answer to mine seems to on the same track as me.

Forget the ratings. They’re meaningless. Just point people to the BGL converter here: http://www.brist.plus.com/convert.htm

In the U.S. we use milligrams per deciliter. In the U.K. and Canada, they use millimoles per liter. They differ only by a factor of 18. Elsewhere, I have no idea.

U.S. norm fasting: 70 to 110 mg/dl
U.K. norm fasting: 3.9 to 6.1 mmol/l

Read this:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glucose_tolerance_test

Ignore those who are ignorant. I get that all the time.

BLOOD SUGAR LEVEL– MONITOR YOURSELF

BLOOD SUGAR LEVEL– MONITOR YOURSELF

Blood sugar refers to the level of glucose in the blood. It is transported through the bloodstreams and is the principal energy source for the cells in our bodies. In general, blood sugar level is affected by the following:

1. Stress

2. Activity level

3. Diet

4. Insulin in the body

Blood sugar concentration (also known as serum glucose level) usually varies for different people, but the normal or acceptable range is within 70 to 150 mg/dl. This varies or fluctuates throughout the day, with the lowest sugar level occurring usually in the morning (before the first meal) and rising after every meal.

The level of blood sugar in a person should be highly regulated. Failure to do so could lead to diseases, the most common of which is diabetes. Diabetes is a disease that is caused by either lack of or too much insulin in the body (insulin is a hormone that controls the glucose level in the blood). Other health problems that are related to diabetes, which are also considered fatal include the following:

Hypoglycemia – characterized by a very low drop in the blood sugar level. A person suffering from hypoglycemia may experience the following symptoms:

1. Sweating

2. Hunger

3. Anxiety

4. Exhaustion and weakness

5. Impaired mental functioning

6. Irritability

7. Loss of consciousness

Hyperglycemia – characterized by a very high level of blood sugar. Common symptoms include the following:

1. Frequent urination

2. Thirst

3. Blurred vision

4. Skin infections (such as boils)

5. Possible damage to the eyes, feet, kidneys, and nerves

Because of the potentially serious conditions that may arise from a drop or a rise in the blood sugar level, it is important to track and monitor them.

Monitoring the blood sugar level in the body can be done even without the aid of a medical expert – you just obtain a drop of your blood and then test the sample to find out how much sugar is in it. It is an easy process that can be performed even at the comfort of your home; all you need is the following items:

1. Lancets or any sterile finger-sticking device

2. Alcohol pads

3. Chemically treated test strips

4. Glucose meter

5. A logbook

6. Now you are ready to measure your blood sugar level. Just follow the following steps

7. Use the alcohol pad to clean the finger (or any area) that you are going to prick.

8. Get a drop of your blood by pricking yourself with a sterile lancet (or any similar device).

9. Place the sample (the drop of blood) on the test strip.

10. Insert the test strip into the glucose meter (follow the instructions that are found on the equipment).

11. The meter will then read the test strip and give you a numerical result that corresponds to your blood sugar level.

Write down the results in a logbook for record keeping and for future references.

Note that the frequency for blood sugar testing may vary with each person, because ‘when’ to test depends on numerous factors. It is recommended that you consult a doctor to determine how often and at what time you need to monitor your blood sugar level.

Monitoring your blood sugar level enables you to prevent further complications by allowing you to adjust and manage your lifestyle – your diet, your activity level, and your medication programs (if applicable).

Note, however, this is just an information – still important that you see a doctor.

http://www.ihealthtube.com Dr. Molly Ferguson on gestational diabetes, and the risk factors for it and how it could affect the fetus.

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You can stabilize blood sugar levels and optimize your long-term health by:

1) Reversing Damage – Years of high Glycemic food consumption and continual release of Insulin into the bloodstream have caused damage your body and some degree of Insulin Resistance to take hold. To help reverse this, AyurGold releases hundreds of phytonutrients that act at the molecular level to stimulate endocrine cells found in the pancreas, incite the Islets of Langerhans to generate key enzymes responsible for regulating blood sugar in the body, increase glucose utilization, improve glucose metabolism, inhibit glucose output from the liver, reverse abnormal lipid profiles seen in people with high blood sugar, and help increase blood circulation to restore natural balance and harmony to your body.

2) Regularly Drink Water – Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water per day to avoid dehydration and help liberate fat stores to be burned as energy.

3) Eat 5 to 6 Small Meals Daily – Spreading food intake improves nutrient absorption, minimizes blood sugar fluctuations, and decreases fat-storing hormones and enzymes.

4) Carbohydrates – Consume low to moderate GI (Glycemic Index) carbohydrates at all times. All low GI diets are based on the same principle of balancing blood sugar. The foods which are restricted on low GI diets are those which cause your blood sugar and insulin levels to rise fast and high such as desserts and refined sugars. This results in more food being converted to fat. Some foods commonly believed to be healthy actually have a high GI index: dried dates, watermelon, banana, raisins, brown rice pasta, white rice, cornmeal, couscous, instant rice, white bread, whole meal bread, dark rye, and popular cereals (Raisin Bran, Special K, Grape Nuts, Cornflakes, Rice Krispies, Cheerios, Puffed Wheat).

5) Protein – Consume lean, complete protein regularly with meals to raise your metabolic and anabolic hormones and prevent lean tissue loss. Good protein sources are skinless chicken, salmon, tuna, sardines, low fat cottage cheese, egg whites, and turkey breast. Avoid luncheon meats, whole milk, ground beef, cheese, bacon, pork chops, and yogurt.

6) Increase Fiber Intake – Fibrous vegetables like Broccoli, Cauliflower, Peppers, and Carrots, and other raw vegetables and brown rice and whole grains increase transit time of food, improve digestion, and enhance weight loss. They also add bulk to the diet which reduces appetite.

7) Reduce Saturated Fats and Replace with Polyunsaturated Fats (PUFAs) – Limit butter, red meat, cheese, mayonnaise, macadamia nuts, peanut butter, and sunflower seeds. Avoid margarine, foods with “partially hydrogenated” on labeling, processed vegetable oils, and fried foods. Regularly consume flax oil, non-processed vegetable oils, salmon, olive oil, hazelnuts, peanut oil, hemp, avocado, almonds, and fish oil.

Aerobics – 40 to 60 minutes of aerobics (jogging, fast walking, swimming, cycling) on alternating days from weight training will help to burn fat and calories, increase physical endurance, strengthen heart and lungs, help control blood lipid levels and blood pressure, increase insulin sensitivity, and enhance energy and ability to cope with stress. Since aerobics on an empty stomach rely on fat for energy, morning time is ideal for aerobics. The level of intensity should be within your target heart range. This means 60% to 85% of your maximum heart rate (you feel the workout is somewhat hard where you feel tired but can continue for the entire 40 to 60 minute period).

9) Weight Training – More muscle mass means a higher resting metabolic rate and more calories burned. Weight training 3 to 4 days per week (less than 1 hour per session with 30 to 60 second rest periods in between sets) will foster high levels of muscle building (anabolic) hormones and minimize muscle wasting (catabolic) hormones. Work each body part once a week (chest and back on day 1, legs on day 3, shoulders and arms on day 5).

10) Multivitamins – A good quality multivitamin / mineral supplement is always advisable for maximizing metabolism, fat loss, and health.

11) Consuming Alcohol in Moderation – Drinking too much alcohol can raise triglyceride levels in your blood and also lead to high blood pressure, heart failure, and increase calorie intake (which can lead to obesity and diabetes).

12) Relaxation – When you are stressed, you are more likely to break away from good habits such as eating healthy foods and exercising regularly. Maintain a relaxed outlook by prioritizing tasks, setting limits, getting enough sleep, and calming your mind through meditation, hobbies, and time spent with loved ones.

I’m a 23 yr old male with some weight issues. I had the diabetes check yesterday morning, however, I’m never hungry in the mornings, and my blood sugar usually drops in the afternoons, evenings, and nights.

However, I’ve been dealing with quite the opposite for the past several years- low blood sugar known as hypoglycemia. I read numerous studies and articles on it and knew that’s what I had.

No, that’s great. Fasting blood glucose should be between 70 and 100mg/dl. Your result is great.

That indicates that you are not at risk for hyperglycemia, or diabetes.

Hypoglycemia is defined as a glucose (or blood sugar) reading below 70mg/dl. This is likely what you would see on a meter if you were to test yourself when you feel lightheaded, dizzy, etc. in the afternoon, evening, and nights.

Good luck in managing your hypoglycemia.

Abbott Diabetes Care is warning about problems with some of the company’s blood glucose meters. These meters could accidentally be switched from one measurement unit to another, possibly causing the patient to misinterpret the glucose test results. The affected glucose meters include the FreeStyle®, FreeStyle Flash™, FreeStyle Tracker™, Precision Xtra™, MediSense® Sof-Tact™, and MediSense® Optium™. Abbott meters are also sold under private label brands such as ReliOn® Ultima, Rite Aid® and Kroger®.

These meters were originally designed to allow patients to see their test results in the units customarily used in their own country. To do that, the patient could switch between showing the results in two different measurement units: mg/dL, the standard used in the U.S., and mmol/L, which is used in many other countries.

The problem can occur if the measurement units switch without the patient realizing it. This can happen when the patient resets the date and time or changes the battery, or even if the meter is dropped or bumped. Then, if the patient just looked at the numbers without noticing the different units or the decimal point, he could incorrectly ume that his blood glucose level is too high or too low.

To help resolve the problem, all new Abbott meters now have the correct unit of measurement locked in place. Patients can continue to use the older units, but they should make sure that their meter displays the glucose test result in mg/dL. If patients don’t know how to change the measurement units, or if the units can’t be changed, they can contact Abbott Diabetes Care at 1-800-553-4105.

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Looking after your diabetes!

I’m Deborah Susan, a dietician and personal trainer specializing in nutrition and physical fitness for diabetics. Today I shall write on how you can look after your diabetes and continue to lead a healthy, normal and fruitful life.

Looking after your diabetes

The secret to continued good health and fruitful life despite diabetes lies in regular testing of your blood glucose, not missing any prescribed glucose tablets or insulin dosage and a healthy lifestyle. Today I will concentrate on how you can monitor your blood glucose.

Monitoring your blood glucose levels (Glucose testing strips)

The key to keeping your blood glucose levels or (sugar levels as it is commonly known), under control is to keep your sugar level within the recommended range of 4 to 7 millimoles per liter. Only regular monitoring with diabetic strips can help you achieve this.

Measuring your own blood glucose levels is quite easy if you have a good quality branded digital blood glucose monitors. If you don’t have one the neighborhood chemist or any online website specializing in diabetes monitoring tools can help you.

When it comes to glucose monitors, accuracy is the key, so do not buy cheap Chinese glucose monitors. Our own branded blood glucose test meter (glucometers) is highly accurate and usually cost between and . In addition to the glucometer, you will also need a box of test strips (~) and a pack of Lancets (~). The diabetic test strip and lancets are to be replenished as and when required. Replace the battery in the Glucometer as and when required. If the blood sugar meters does not have a battery level indicator you should replace the battery in the glucometer every six months or so. A weak battery can induce faulty results.

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Tip: Buy a blood glucose test strips that has a large digital readout, adequate memory and battery indicator.

When and how often you use the blood sugar monitors depends on your treatment, the food you consume and level of physical activity. Apart from regular testing at home, you should also do an HbA1c test every six months. This test is done at your local diabetes clinic and the result gives you an overall picture of your blood glucose levels. HbA1c test results should be as close to 7% (or below). Even a tiny fraction above 7% should be brought to the attention of your doctor.

You can keep your blood glucose under control by:

1) Eating regular small healthy diabetic diet meals so as to avoid major fluctuations in your blood glucose levels.

2) Including adequate levels of physical activity so the insulin in your body works more effectively.

3) Reducing any excess body fat by regular checkup with body fat monitor. (Include half yearly body fat analysis in your health plan/ schedule).

4) Take your diabetes (and any other prescribed) tablets and diabetes supplements according to the schedule given to you.

5) Monitor your blood glucose levels and learn to adjust your treatment according to the results.

Typefreediabetes offers a full line of diabetic testing supplies, including incontinence diapers; supplements for diabetes, portion control plates, glucose tablets, blood glucose monitors, durable diabetes medical equipment, blood glucose test meter and automatic blood pressure monitor and many other home health care products and supplies. Typefreediabetes offers quality products at discounted prices on a wide selection of quality name brand equipment and supplies.

Shop online for Diabetes Insulin Pump and Accu-Chek active test strips

www.PreOp.com This program will demonstrate the use of insulin pens. The goal is to inject the insulin into the subcutaneous tissue between the top layer of the skin, the dermis and the underlying muscle layer. Insulin pens are devices that can provide an easy way to carry and give insulin…