Vitamin D

For about 4 years now my doctor has been checking my vitamin D level and has me on supplementation to keep my level as close to optimal as possible.  For those that spend the majority of our day indoors, there is typically a vitamin D deficiency.  My doctor wants my level between his preferred range of 40-70 ng/ml.  I find my levels are best during the summer months when I tend to get more sun – obviously.  I’m not a doctor, but would recommend you discuss this area with your regular physician because it could help you too.

Here are some recent articles that support optimal vitamin D levels:

[Men's Health] According to the July/Aug issue of Men’s Health, a study suggested that people with low blood levels of vitamin D are 47% more likely to develop prediabetes.

[Reuters] “Lower levels of vitamin D circulating in the bloodstream are tied to a higher risk of developing diabetes…[type 2]”

[Yahoo News] “For every 5 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) increase in vitamin D levels, the risk of developing diabetes [type 2] dropped by 8%.”

Some Possible Benefits of Vitamin D

• Improved balance
• Stronger & healthy bones
• Improved muscle strength
• May lower risk of some cancers
• Decreased risk of osteoporosis
• Less tooth loss
• Better thinking
• Boosts immunity
• Improved Insulin sensitivity

Some of these claims may be stronger than others, but there is evidence of each to some extent.  Do a simple Google search and you will see for yourself.  With all of these possible benefits and almost no downside, why not take vitamin D supplements?  I simply take 1 pill twice a week and it brought my level from the 20s to 50.  With an Rx from my doctor I get a strong dose that is a generic and very low cost.  Seriously, I can’t afford to NOT take more vitamin D.

Tip: Vitamin D supplements are much better than ultraviolet rays (sunshine/tanning booth)

Blood Test: You can suggest to your doctor to test your vitamin D, by checking your 25-hydroxy D

What have you heard about vitamin D?

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Playing Defense Against Diabetes is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

My Medtronic Pump

I have been using a Medtronic Minimed 715 insulin pump for the last 5.5 years.  I believe the warranty is only for 3 or 4 years, which means if mine breaks now I need to pay for a new one (insurance copay).  If it was under warranty I would probably be able to get a new one from Medtronic at zero cost.  The Rep for Medtronic told me that it’s beneficial to have the pump under warranty in the event it breaks I can get a new one a little quicker due to paperwork that will be needed.  I get that and haven’t wanted to spend the money on a new pump since mine works perfectly fine and it’s over a grand for a new one.

Decision

I am starting to plan for 2012 and potentially using my Flexible Spending account to get a new pump.  I’ve really been thinking through what pump I want to get and it hasn’t been easy.  For the record, I’m still undecided and don’t know which way I will go at this point.  Here are the features that I like/dislike about each that are factoring into my decision.

Animas Ping

I’ve really been looking hard at the Ping.  The big features I like about the Ping is that A) It’s waterproof – like really waterproof to the point where I could jump in a pool fully submerged without issue. B) It’s pretty cool looking with a color screen (lower on my priority list) and finally C) They are working on integration with DexCom a leader in the continuous glucose monitor (CGM) market.  I might take the plunge down the road on a CGM and I think I would prefer a Dexcom over the Medtronic CGM.

I know it sounds weird, but the waterproof feature is almost a game-changer for me.  I don’t go on vacation or to the pool often, but it would be SO NICE to not have to disconnect my infusion set each time I went in the pool.  That also means more checking, tweaking of bolus/basal for time disconnected.  The waterproof feature is big to me.  Note, the Medtronic Rep made a good point to combat the fact that their pump is NOT waterproof.  He said, do you really want to take the chance with a $6,000 medical device?  They focus on features that will help patients manage their diabetes versus making it waterproof.

Medtronic Revel

Now with Medtronic, I get a company that is focused and built a strong reputation with it’s insulin pump.  My pump has worked very well for 5+ years and when I did have an issue, Medtronic responded quickly and resolved the situation perfectly.  I also have CareLink, my web-based program that has tracked my diabetes data for a long time now and works well.  My doctor likes the reports it produces and I like studying them for potential changes.

I have all the infusion sets and reservoirs that are for Medtronic, which isn’t a huge issue but a pain for timing a change.  The downside is that the Revel and CGM from Medtronic is not as good as the Dexcom from what I’ve heard.  They are working on changes and making the sensor more comfortable for insertion, but not there yet.  With a somewhat lean body type and goal of getting leaner, the size of the needle can be an issue.

Summary

As I previously wrote, it’s difficult to get an unbiased comparison from a pump manufacturer.  This is a pretty tough decision because it’s one I will have to live with for probably at least 5 more years.  Which company do I think will be better over those 5 years, what product will have better support and what will I be happier with?  Basically I am weighing the waterproof and change aspect of the Animas Ping against the proven support and product quality of Medtronic.  It’s a tough decision that I will continue to think through over the coming months.

Ping

+ Waterproof, CGM Integration coming and looks

- Untested/unknown customer support, change from what I’m use to, 2 devices if I want a CGM now

Revel

+ Proven performance, customer support, Carelink reporting, CGM integrated with pump

- Not waterproof, CGM inferior

Any suggestions, info or thoughts would be greatly appreciated – please leave your thoughts below.

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Medtronic or Animas Insulin Pump is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

• Blogging Diabetes
• Me totally losing my thought
• My diagnosis
• Sponsorship on the blog
• Life as a husband and father with diabetes
• My podcast
• My error in saying that I’ve had this website since ’98 instead of ’08
• Shoutouts to: Kerri, Pat and Cliff

Just Talking Podcast <—– Click on the link to listen to Chris’ interview of me on his podcast/site.

I’ve been listening to Chris’ podcasts for some time now and enjoyed being his guest.  It’s also great to catch up live with Chris who I’ve talked to on Twitter for a long time now.

Check out his podcast and leave him a comment if you enjoyed the “episode” as much as I did recording it with Chris!

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Interviewed by Chris from Just Talking Podcast is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Since being diagnosed with diabetes back in 1998, I have lived in 4 different cities in three different states.  So over the last 13 years I’ve had 5 different Endocrinologists to oversee my diabetes management.  When I’ve moved to a different area, I’ve typically looked for a doctor based on three criteria:

1. Does the doctor accept new patients (some do not)
2. Does the practice accept my insurance
3. How close is the practice to my house/office

Each of the five different doctors had their good and bad aspects.  Some had great manners, were more easy going and worked like a team while others had been stern and insensitive.  I’ve never really shopped around to see what other doctors are like to see if there is a better match.  I feel like I know my body and treatment needed to get excellent blood sugar control.  It would be a different story if the doctor actually followed me around and slapped my hand whenever I tried to grab a cookie or do something stupid like forget to bolus (take my insulin).

I’ve done some research and found a few resources that might just help you uncover details about your current doctor or help you find a new doctor.  One note of caution when it comes to reviews, it’s typical for someone with a bad experience to leave a very bad review, but less likely for someone with a great experience to leave a review at all.

Rate Medical Doctors

Rate MDs is a site where most doctors are listed and people can write a review about their experience.  In the screenshot below, you can see an example (click on it to zoom in) of my doctor.  Some of the information I would typically look for is listed on this site like, accepting new patients.  You can also see how long the doctor has been practicing and where s/he went to medical school.  Also, there are reviews on punctuality, helpfulness, knowledge and overall quality.  Note, my doctor was rated fairly low on punctuality, but 4.5 out of 5 overall.  Not bad.  If I was a doctor I would be doing a search on myself to see where I can improve and what patients were saying about me.  Another caution is that anyone can rate a doctor with just a few clicks and no checks.

Vitals – Where Doctors are Examined

This site is pretty neat because it contains a lot of the same information as RateMDs, but also shows what insurance the doctor accepts, what ranking his medical school is and what the average wait time is for those that have posted a review.  With this site you have to enter your email address to post a review, but it doesn’t appear to be shown or made visible.  The site states that the average wait time for my doctor is about 35 minutes.  In the doctor world, 35 minutes is probably acceptable.  Anyone else catch the article on CNN about charging doctors for wasted time beyond when an appointment was scheduled?  Wouldn’t that be nice to keep them “honest”.

Maryland Board of Physicians

This last site is specific to the state of Maryland in the U.S.A., but is probably the same for each state.  One could do an Internet search on [state] Board of Physicians.  From that page locate the section where you can look up a doctor.  This site contains information not in the other two like, Post Graduate training locations and concentration in medical school.  You can also see what area the doctor is licensed to practice in or certified.   Finally, the last part of this site contains any disciplinary action taken by the state medical board on the doctor.  I think it would be nice to know this type of information especially if it were a doctor that may be scheduled to do a surgery on me or even my general doctor.

I hope this information helps.  Are there any other sites that you use or know of to help get information about current or potential doctors?

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

3 Resources to Find Out Secrets About Your Doctor is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

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Almost a month ago now, I wrote that I was a little disappointed in my first 90 days with P90x as it relates to my A1C.  I definitely saw results in my weight, body fat loss and all around health.  However, this is only half the battle, right?  Not only was my goal to lose some pounds and look and feel better, but I wanted to improve my A1C.  You know, the dream to hover in the 6′s.

Challenge

With P90x or Insanity, they are both intense workouts that push you to the limit and burn calories.  Don’t believe me? Check out youtube or search the internet for either and you will find a massive amount of videos showing great results and people soaked in sweat.  When I would get ready to do a workout I would always check my sugar before starting.  My optimal blood sugar was  around 180 if I was going to do a more cardio intense workout.  Now from one of my last posts, that 180 would translate to around a 7.4 A1C.  If my goal is to get into the 6′s then bringing my sugar up to 180 isn’t helping.

My A1C

I posted the last 10 years of my A1C numbers in a recent newsletter article and got some great feedback.  Most recently, I dropped my A1C by .2%.  The frustrating part is that I literally busted my ass for nearly 3 months of working out around an hour each night.  Sometimes I would be working out doing P90x at 11:30 at night.  I could have done a bit better on my diet, but I was fairly strict.  So to only drop my A1c by .2% with all that effort was definitely discouraging.  Again, if your goal is to lose weight/body fat and gain muscle, then the programs are excellent.  If your goal is to lower your A1C, maybe these workouts aren’t for you or at least the way I approached it.

Exercise <>Lower A1C

We all know exercise is good for us in terms of our overall health in so many ways.  But killing ourselves to drop 10 lbs in 30 days will not help your A1C, I almost guarantee it.  In order to burn enough calories, you have to simply run high on blood sugars too often, which I don’t recommend.  A regular routine of moderate exercise is probably much better for staying healthy and maintaining a good average blood sugar or A1C.

Learning

Instead of me starting my exercise a little high, I think I would have done much better to add carbs during my workout.  I could have done this by adding some regular sports drink, like Gatorade instead of drinking water.  This way the sugar from the drink would help me maintain a level blood sugar instead of dropping low or starting too high.   Remember, a smooth line (in range) is always optimal when it comes to diabetes.  That line would have little dispersion unlike the image above and would look more like a line.  So just because you may be hitting the gym hard, don’t expect to see a dramatic drop in your A1C just because you’re putting in the time and burning calories.  Show me an extremely fit person with washboard abs and I could show you an A1C in the 9′s.  So just because someone is in shape doesn’t necessarily mean their diabetes is in excellent control.

Final Word

Don’t let this article discourage you from working out, trying an extreme workout or exercising in any way.  The benefits of regular exercise are just too important.   I feel so much better about myself after working out and while maintaining a regular workout schedule.  When I feel better and have more energy, I tend to eat less garbage, sleep better and be less irritable.

When you think of someone with excellent blood sugar control, do you immediately think of a very fit person?

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

More Exercise Doesn’t Always Mean A Lower A1c is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

[Source]

The A1C

Most people with diabetes or those that have a friend or family member with diabetes probably already knows that the A1C percentage is a measure of the average blood glucose over the last 2-3 months.  In the diabetes world, an A1c is the most prevalent measure of blood sugar control that most doctors routinely measure.  This test is typically done a few times each year for those with type 1 diabetes.  The American Diabetes Association relates the A1C test to a Baseball Player’s batting average, if you are a baseball fan.  It’s the one objective measure that is scientifically based to see how someone with diabetes is doing.  A patient can lie and say their blood sugar has been 120 every day, but the A1C will bring out the truth or at least be more accurate and unbiased.

My Last A1C

I dropped .2% in my A1c, which probably translates to an average blood sugar difference of 10 MG/DL over the 3 month period.  I worked quite hard and was a bit disappointed as I recently discussed in my newsletter.  I was doing P90X and started up my new site: www.eatcleanstayfit.com that came from my motivation to keep eating healthy.  I did have some slip-ups and wasn’t monitoring my blood sugar via CareLink like I should have been.  Below I share the translation of what each A1C percent is in terms of average blood sugar.

[Source]

Blood Sugar Alternate View

Here’s a challenge for you.  Click on the image above and print it out.  Maybe even laminate it and keep it where you mainly test your blood sugar.  Whenever you test, translate the MG/DL number to what the A1C percentage would be.  I guarantee that if you look at a 350 as a 12% A1C, it will help motivate you to do better.  If you are like me and want an A1C in the 6′s, that means your average blood sugar needs to be less than 170.  So any blood sugars that come back 170+ are going to push my average up and cause for much dissatisfaction at my next doctor’s appointment.

Warning

This is where I temporarily get on my soapbox.  Be careful of getting obsessed with the A1C.  It’s pretty common to hear that most people with diabetes want an A1C in the 6′s.  My goal is to be in the high sixes each and every time I get tested.  I’ve said this before and want to say it again.  It’s near impossible to have a perfect A1C with diabetes.  In order to average out your blood sugar to <6% A1C you will probably have too many dangerous lows.  So BE CAREFUL.  My doctor says that an A1C below 8% is “good” control.  Anything over 8% is where the chance of complications start to climb dramatically.  I would say anything under 7 is Excellent control.  <– Again, my opinion.  Many recommend an A1C that is 6% or lower, which, quite frankly, is bullshit.  I think they recommend 6% because they know it’s a stretch goal and many are around 7%.  If they recommended 7%, then people would be happy at 8%.  Though everyone is different.  Someone who has already started with complications would do better to have a lower A1C.  I’ve heard that kids are safer to run a little higher.  Though, they have the longest runway with diabetes so any improvement could mean a big difference way down the road.

Want to Know More

I’ve decided to post my A1C trend over the last 12 years in an upcoming newsletter article.  I sifted through all of my old medical records and recorded each A1c, cholesterol, Kidney, etc. results in a spreadsheet.  The data is very interesting and I would think that many can relate to my results.  So if you haven’t already, sign up for the FREE newsletter where I share tips, ideas and data that isn’t available anywhere on this site.  The subscribers are amazing and I’ve had some awesome feedback and shared information with many folks on a personal level.

My Opinion

Over the last 13 years I’ve noticed a trend when I get my A1C tested.  This is purely my observation and not based on facts or anything scientific.  Ever notice that your A1C seems to be lower when your blood sugar is almost perfect at the time your blood is drawn for the A1C test?  I’ve notice this over the years.  Has anyone else noticed this?  I always try to have a near perfect blood sugar when I go for my test just in case.

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

A1C: Some Key Facts You May Not Know is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Magic Kingdom

If you’ve never been to Disney’s Magic Kingdom, I highly recommend it.  Don’t have any children.  I STILL recommend it.  Children are all grown up and it’s been decades since you brought them there.  You guessed it, I still recommend going back.  I can honestly say it is truly a magical place.  Not to get all dramatic, but watching my young girls react to the events, rides, fireworks, animation show and characters was an awesome experience.  Some think the ticket price is high.  I would have paid triple what I did without even blinking to bring my girls back.  I can’t put a dollar value on the moments we shared, fun we had and smiles that will be imbedded in my head forever.

I would never admit this in real life, but I got choked up a bit watching my oldest daughter be in absolute awe during the fireworks/animation show. The show was amazing and better than most 4th of July fireworks I’ve seen.  The whole theme is about dreams coming true and the magic of Disney.  As a child the world is pure, life is fun, there are no bad things/people in the world.  We adults know better, yet we still dream.  Everyone should dream and Disney reminded me that life is bigger than a job, house, car, Rolex, jewelry (my wife may disagree with this one) or other “stuff”.  Life is about happiness, passions, family and living the dream.  I give kudos to Disney for recognizing this and reminded me what’s REALLY important in life.  Thankfully, I had 3 of the best decisions in my life with me that night enjoying the fireworks and magic of it all.

Best Tip I Ever Received

Over on facebook, Fiona gave me one of the best tips I’ve ever gotten before I left.  She told me to go directly to Guest Services at the Magic Kingdom to get a pass that avoids having to wait in long lines at the rides because someone in my party (me) has T1 Diabetes.  I was reluctant at first because I’m not one to take shortcuts, handouts or freebies and never cut a line.  I want to EARN it.  After being talked into it by my wife, I went in and asked what they could offer.

Without question the girl gave me the card below that provided me with an “Alternate Entrance” to each ride.  I basically went up to the handicap entrance for each ride and was put on the very next one without ever waiting more than 5-10 minutes at most.  This was a HUGE benefit because some of the lines were probably an hour long for a ride that lasted a few short minutes.  I felt funny using the pass, but with each use it became easier and easier.  This saved me and my party a TON of time and allowed us to enjoy almost all of the rides.

My advice to anyone who has T1 or T2 in their party is to get one of these passes.  After seeing how valuable it was, I’d probably pay a few hunj to buy one of these if it was offered.   I guess diabetes does have some perks, which reminds me of the Desperate Housewives episode where Susan uses her failed Kidney to get out of a speeding ticket and cut lines – not that I watch the show; it’s just what my wife told me.

Funny Story (Now)

As promised in my last post, I wanted to share a story that almost led to my wife beating my ass.  We leave Orlando after our flight was delayed about 2 hours due to weather.  So our little girls are exhausted and an airport is not a fun place for them nor a cramped plane.  We land in Baltimore and sit on the tarmac for 30 minutes because there wasn’t a gate available to park the plane.  We waited till all the luggage was out only to find our car-seat must have arrived early and was sitting in a different area looking abandoned.  Lot’s of irritation at this point and 3 extremely exhausted girls.  So the stage is set, right?  Approx. 10PM and tired.

We take the shuttle to the parking garage that is about 8 stories and decent size.  We go up to the 4th floor and as we exit the elevator, I proceed to tell my wife, “I have absolutely no idea where the car is”.   I hit the panic button on my keychain . . . Nothing.  I start walking the 4th floor hitting my unlock button over and over… and over.  No car.  I get a little panicked and go to the 3rd floor, nothing.  5th floor, nothing. I hit the 6th and 5th floor again.  NOTHING.  My wife is calling my cell phone and literally screaming.  I’m pissed, she’s pissed and the girls are beyond the tipping point.  A nice Police officer patrolling the garage picked me up and I explained what happened.  He nicely took me to each floor going up and down EACH row starting on the 8th floor or top.

Guess where my car was…

On the 4th floor about 150 feet from where my wife, the kids, a million bags, stroller and car-seats were impatiently waiting for me.  The kicker is that I prepaid my parking and when I went to leave they charged me another 3 dollars for the 1.5 hrs I spent looking for my car.  I quietly paid it and looked at it like an idiot tax.  Then she told me I should have called the help phone because they take images of each parking spot and could locate my car in minutes.  I grumbled something along the lines of “it aint ever happening again” and sped off. I only felt slightly better when the police officer told me it happens ALL THE TIME.

Learning: I’m going to take a picture with my phone of my car in it’s spot before each trip.

Would you have used the pass to skip waiting in the long lines?

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

How I Went to the Front of the Line and Made a Fool of Myself is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

What goes up….usually comes DOWN [read on...]

Baltimore Airport

Last week was my first air travel since all the new security measure were put into place as the family and I went to Disney for a week.  As I went through security with my 5 year old and 2 year old the only thing they did was ask if I had a phone in my pocket.  I politely told them that it was my insulin pump and they waved me through.  No questions asked, no “step aside”, no fondling, nodda.  I passed through the metal detector and whisked away my children.  There wasn’t even any sign of a body scanner.  Oh well, seemed to be business as usual to me.  Maybe since Bin Laden has been dead they eased up a bit.

Orlando Airport

I have a new love for the Orlando airport after having to travel with my family, a bazillion bags, stroller, diaper bag, 2 car seats, and backpacks.  It’s a nightmare to go even 100 feet with all this stuff because my wife and I just don’t have enough hands.  So when arriving to Orlando to find the car rental area attached to the airport and not a shuttle ride away, was a pleasant surprise.  I gladly paid the $4 for a cart and piled it up like a circus show.  Easy in, on time via AirTran and on our way to the resort.

Arriving at the Resort

We get to the Marriott resort that was right up the street from SeaWorld and start unloading the bags.  Out comes a nasty low that caused me to run to the vending machine because we hadn’t gotten groceries yet and the snacks I had weren’t going to cut it.  Our friends arrived shortly after and I felt like an ass because I didn’t offer to help them bring their bags to their suite because I was low.  Not wanting to get into it with them, I just took it easy until my sugar was up.

Enjoying Vacation

Almost the entire vacation I found myself going from 50 to 30o.  I was eating a lot of garbage food including high fatty foods that can caused delayed absorption and highs.  So I would test and be in the zone and a few hours later I would be 300.  It was frustrating.  On top of that I was visiting parks and spending obscene amounts of time in the pool and at the water-park on slides.  So I had long durations of disconnect from my pump.  The lack of true waterproofing from Medtronic is almost enough for me to want to change.  The parks had me doing a lot of walking and totally off my diabetes/eating routine.  I ran a little high not wanting to pass out in the park and ruin the trip.  Plus, it was in the mid 90s most of the time so dealing with the hotness and kids was enough work.

Leaving Orlando

I had much of the same experience leaving Orlando with going through security. Although, I did get to use the employee line when going through security where they helped me with the kids, stroller, bags, etc.  No scanner, no pat down, not even a question about the pump in my pocket this time.  Maybe this isn’t a good thing, but I was relieved that I didn’t have to deal with 2 young kids and a fiasco getting through security.

I guess I’m probably not alone in that traveling with diabetes is a challenge because it takes you out of your routine and comfort zone.  Routines and consistent meals are definitely key when it comes to diabetes management.  Fo’ sure.

More to come on Thursday – I pay it forward by passing on one of the greatest tips I’ve even gotten by a reader!  I’m also going to share a rather funny story (not funny at the time).

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Traveling with Diabetes Sucks Because… is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Call me lazy, but I needed to have a second OneTouch UltraLink.  The benefit this meter has is that it communicates via wireless to my Medtronic Pump (715).  This is key because I use my pump to upload data to Medtronic’s CareLink site for reporting to my doctor and my own analysis.

What’s happened in the past is that my mid-day numbers were not complete because I was using the mini to test around lunch.  There’s no way I would manually enter numbers either.  That’s way too much work.  So now I have an UltraLink I use at home and one I leave at work.  No more being without my meter and no more missing data.

I will say that it was a complete pain in the butt getting this meter.  My pump supply company didn’t have any, CVS didn’t have any and both said they couldn’t order them.  WHY? I really have no idea.  My Medtronic Rep just happen to call and he put me in touch with the Inventory folks who I ordered it from.  Let me be completely transparent, I paid full price for the UltraLink meter, $89.99.

Why OneTouch doesn’t partner with Medtonic and just give these away, I don’t know.  Everybody knows the money is in the test strips.  If I use 6 strips a day and a box costs $50, that’s $2,200 per year.  Someone who is a lifetime customer could spend A LOT of money with OneTouch.  Who cares about the initial $90.  And, why make it so hard to get one of these meters?

After just a slight improvement in my last A1c, I plan to study my results on a more regular basis.  Having a second meter and the data I will now have will be worth the $90 I paid.  Now if you are on a tight budget, you can just get one and use it all the time.  I plan to only use my OneTouch Mini when I’m out and about.

One Sample – 3 Different Results

If you look closely you will see that the times are different, but that’s because I’ve been lazy about setting them.  You can be assured that I used one blood sample and tested with all three meters within seconds of each other.  It’s interesting that the OneTouch Mini to UltraLink on the right is about a 14% difference.  Running this test really just reminded me that I need to have the meters in sync, time wise, so when I upload the data to CareLink it will be accurate.  Also, this begs the question – could a 60 really be 48 or maybe 72?  Big difference.

How many meters do you have and which one do you like best?

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Don’t Wait As Long As Me To Double Up is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Expired Glucagon

I had a second thought that was probably a no-brainer to you, but didn’t occur to me until after I posted last week about the Glucagon.  My Earth shattering idea is that since the Glucagon expires after only a year or so, chances are you dispose of them often.  Here’s a novel idea.  Once you get the new one, USE the old one.  Let me be very clear here so no one gets into trouble.  Go through a test run with your partner, family, wife, husband, friend, etc. who will be the person administering glucagon in the case of an emergency.

Test Run

What a great opportunity to learn with the real thing (without actually injecting it) and potentially save precious life-saving seconds in the event you need it, as my daughter would say, “for really real”.

I’ve never actually injected Glucagon (not that I could in the event I’m unresponsive) and neither has my wife.  I could just imagine her pouring a glass of wine (swirling gently to properly aerate), kicking her feet up in the recliner and reading the directions like it was the “Great Gatsby” or something while I am passed out cold.  This way, if it were to really happen there’s no excuses why I shouldn’t have that injection within a minute or so.

Opportunity

Don’t waste an opportunity to be prepared – it doesn’t cost you anything now and could be the difference that saves your life!

Your To Do

1. Get a Glucagon kit that isn’t expired
2. Do a trial run (without injecting) with the expired kit or when your new one expires

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Don’t Throw Out Your Glucagon Just Yet is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Glucagon

Don’t Be Like Me

Yesterday I went to my doctor for my regular diabetes check up and A1c test.  I made it a goal a week or so ago to get a new prescription for Glucagon.  Why?  Because the address of the pharmacy on the kit I have is from Richmond, VA where I use to live almost 4 years ago.  Also, the expiration date on the case is 1/30/2007 or roughly 4+ years ago.  It’s something that I don’t think of often because I have never had to use Glucagon in the 13 years of having T1 diabetes.  But, you never know when you might need it.  I’m a planner and wouldn’t want to have my wife crack this bad boy open and shove the needle halfway through me only to find out it’s not effective anymore.  That would suck because I’d probably be dead and wouldn’t be able to write for you anymore.

I talked to my doctor and got a new script for it so I can throw out the old one.  Knock on wood, I hope it expires again and I never need it.  But, I’d better be safe than dead.  Yes, it’s kind of blunt, but that’s the reality that people with diabetes live in.

So don’t be like me and wait over 4 years to have a non-expired emergency glucagon kit.

Glucagon

Glucagon is usually given by injection beneath the skin, in the muscle, or in the vein. It comes as a powder and liquid that will need to be mixed just before administering the dose. Instructions for mixing and giving the injection are in the package. Glucagon should be administered as soon as possible after discovering that the patient is unconscious from low blood sugar. After the injection, the patient should be turned onto the side to prevent choking if they vomit. Once the glucagon has been given, contact your doctor. It is very important that all patients have a household member who knows the symptoms of low blood sugar and how to administer glucagon. (source)

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Don’t Be An Idiot Like Me – Glucagon is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

I am on Facebook just about every day like the majority of their users.  There are a good number of useful pages and information mixed in with time-sucks like farmville/mafia wars (I’ve totally blocked those types of games).  This post is all about diabetes related pages on facebook.  There are many people that are fans of my Blogging Diabetes page that I have learned a great deal from.  Unlike many fan pages, I don’t simply repost my RSS feed from my blog. I really try to interact with the “fans”.  Seriously, you should check it out if you haven’t already.  In browsing Facebook, I’ve come across the following influential pages related to diabetes in no particular order.

1. Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) (54,791 Likes)
2. American Diabetes Association (ADA) (69,945 Likes)
3. Diabetes Reserach Institute (DRI) (3,665 Likes)
4. Faustman Labs (1,842 Likes)
5. Diabetes Daily (13,376 Likes)
6. Diabetes Hands Foundation (7,587 Likes)
7. Children with Diabetes (3,977 Likes)
8. Diabetes Warrior (1,223 Likes)
9. Diabetic Skillet (937 Likes)

I know there are probably thousands out there.  I did exclude many pages that consisted of 95% posts from an RSS feed from a blog or website.

Did I miss any that you find influential? Please share them here so I can incorporate into this or future posts.

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

9 Influential Diabetes Pages on Facebook is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

I mentioned on twitter and facebook about the Avery – Smith & Nephew IV Prep recall.  I would venture to say that this recall affects most of those with diabetes on an insulin pump.  I’m not even sure there is a substitute.  I use these pads with each new infusion set without fail.  Not only does it help disinfect the site, it also helps the infusion set stick for the 3 days I wear it.  So here is the information:

Click HERE for recall info.

The specific lot numbers involved in the recall are: 9K141, 9K142, 9K143; 0F131; 0F140; 0G249; 0G255, 0G256; 0G259; 0K139, 0K140, 0K141; 0K193; 0M180; 0M216; 1A212, 1A213

The Unexpected

It’s so tragic what is going on in Japan and I can’t even imagine what it must be like to live through an event like that.  The videos I’ve seen online just make me gasp and wonder what’s next.  The worst part about diabetes is the unexpected like getting a low and not being prepared.  Most of the time it’s OK because something is relatively close by to treat with.

What happens if you were in the middle of that earthquake/disaster and had a very short supply of insulin? I think about what it must be like to have zero insulin/food and that it probably wouldn’t take long for it to be over.  At best, I would have a 3 day supply to insulin in my pump.  The reality is that it would probably be closer to 1-2 days.  That’s not that long when there is widespread devastation like there is over there.

I always try to have at least one vial of insulin on hand at all times.  I never let is get down to only having a few days left and zero backup.  I suspect that most of us with diabetes do this because it’s our lifeline.  No insulin = no life, plain and simple.  My suggestion is to have a backup plan especially if you live in an area that could have a natural disaster.  Have a safety pack or emergency stash that can be accessed in less than a minute.  I guess it’s one thing that just might save your life.

Do you have an emergency diabetes pack?

My thoughts and prayers are with those people and families impacted.

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

IV Prep Recall and the Unexpected is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

I hope you enjoyed the video.  Let me know if there is anything you want to know more about or I can dive deeper into.  Want to see anything in action, just let me know below.

P.S. I think I’m out of breath because I just finished my home PT routine.  The Plyometrics workout was sick and my legs were crushed.

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Exclusive Look Into My Gym – MTV Cribs Style is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Do you train in the morning or evening? If in the morning, do you eat before or after your workout, and how do you adjust your basal/bolus levels?

Since my daughter was born, just over 5 years ago, I have fully worked out from my home gym.  I invested in a bunch of equipment because I knew that time would be the barrier to being able to workout with young children.  So I have a Life Fitness treadmill, Elliptical, BowFlex Ultimate, Power Block dumbbells up to 90 lbs, TRX, Bosu ball, exercise ball and medicine ball.  Now I workout in the evenings because of the kids and needing to get them ready for school in the mornings.  Even before kids, I would work out after work at around 6PM.  When I workout now it’s after the kids go to bed and more like 9 or 9:30.  If I was to workout in the morning, I would probably eat first.  I’m usually starving when I get up and like to get some energy.  If that was the case I would eat and bolus.  I have a higher basal rate set for mornings anyways (7 days a week).  Before working out, I ALWAYS check my sugar and make sure it’s on the higher side of normal and all the way up to about 180.  My optimal starting blood sugar is probably 160.  I will either eat or bolus to get to that number.

If you workout on the P90X (which I assume is similar to the bodyweight training of the TRX) do you bolus before you exercise, and if so, how much? How much does your bg rise after a P90X workout?

Since late December I’ve been on my first round of P90x.  Actually, I’m 2/3 of the way completed as of this post.  When I finish, I have a round of Insanity to get through that lasts 60 days.  Both are similar in that there is little to no equipment needed and most of the workout is using movement and body weight.  Because these workouts are pretty intense, I try to keep my blood sugar a little high because it always comes down quite a bit.  If I started at 120, I’d end up having to stop to treat a low, which can really kill a workout.  I don’t really find that my blood sugar rises more than 20-30 mg/dl after working out.  Since my workouts are pretty close to sleep time, I always make sure I’m around 110 before going to sleep.  If I go to bed lower, I’ll end up low in the middle of the night.

Do you snack before you workout on the P90X?

I’m typically not that hunger because I’ve eaten dinner about 2 hours before my workout.  If my blood sugar is 110 or below, I will usually eat something like a Kashi or granola bar.  If it’s between 110 and 140 I might take a few glucose tablets or have them handy during the workout.  Another secret is to substitute a sport drink for water while working out.   This way the energy you are burning is somewhat replaced by the carbs of the drink.  This is probably what I might do if I was working out at a gym.  It’s easy for me right now because a refrigerator or snack is just a room away.

Do you drop your basal after a P90X workout?

This is one of my little secrets that I’m happy to share with you.  Whenever possible, I will set a temp basal rate of 50%-80% instead of treating like I might go low.  This is key for working out right at bedtime and not wanting to go low during the night.  So lets say I am 90 at bedtime right after my workout.  I would probably set my temp basal to 75% for 3 hours or so.  This also helps when I am trying to restrict calories and don’t want to be treating with food all the time.

These secrets and things that work for me may or may not work for someone else.  Always do what’s best for you and your body because everyone is different.  Also, it’s important to work with your doctor overseeing your diabetes treatment when starting an exercise program.  I doubt anyone really does this, but it needs to be said.

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Secrets on How I Exercise with Diabetes is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

I am on the computer all day long for work and many times when not working.  What I have found is that the times when I’m off the computer are my best for managing diabetes.  So my point is get active and put down the ipad, mouse, phone, mac, twitter and facebook and DO something.

Now you might think this is counter intuitive if you are reading this post or visiting my site, ONLINE.  But one of the two main reasons I have this site is to help YOU.  By helping you, I’m telling you to turn off technology for at least 30 minutes and move.  Get a Wii, go walking, bike, exercise, swim, take your dog for a walk, whatever. Your blood sugar isn’t going to go down by typing or surfing the internet.  To my knowledge Twitter doesn’t lower blood sugar.  So instead of tweeting for an hour about how much diabetes sucks or facebook chatting with people you don’t want to talk to anyway, do something that’s going to improve your blood sugar and health today.  Just push the OFF button, it’s that easy.

/rant

P.S. Now that I’ve found Angry Birds, it’s even more difficult to get offline.  I set aside at least an hour each night for exercise and I don’t go to bed until I get it done.  I’ve quickly found what’s critical and what can be turned off.

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Step Away From The Computer To Improve Diabetes Control is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Exclusive VIP Access is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

The medium of using twitter to discuss the topics is a good idea, but does come with some flaws.  I use a desktop application, Tweetdeck, to view tweets. When it’s during the DSMA time, the tweets are flying by because so many people are involved in the conversations.  Due to the volume of the tweets, it can be difficult to follow the conversation and see how people are responding to questions.  To summarize the night, Cherise posts a transcript to the website that recaps some summary statistics and actual tweets.

I’ve found that it’s difficult to talk with people who don’t have diabetes about living with the disease because they mostly just don’t “get it”.  It’s not their fault, but it can make for a difficult conversation when you might need someone to lean on.  This type of forum and community brings together many people that are living with the same disease and can totally relate to the issues you may have.  It’s a fantastic support group

I would love to be more active in the group, but it is at a bad time for me due to life and parental responsibilities.  If you can check it out, I think you will find it a great venue to talk openly.  The best part is that no one judges, from my experience, and really help out fellow people with diabetes even if they are a stranger.

Do you participate in the DSMA?  If so, I’d love to hear your feedback below.

Here are my responses to last week’s questions, as I was unable to participate in the discussion:

Q1: I have lived with diabetes for 12.5 years.  I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes

Q2: Through diabetes I have learned empathy for those with a chronic disease.

Q3: The easiest part of diabetes is finding others with diabetes. The hardest part of diabetes is simply consistent blood sugar control within an acceptable range.

Q4: Diabetes makes me feel like I’ve lost my freedom and living with it makes me feel like I’ll live a shorter life.

Q5: Diabetes technology has allowed me to get better control and have a bit more freedom to act like a non-diabetic. Without diabetes technology, I wouldn’t be able to live a somewhat normal life.

Q6: The most awesome thing I’ve done in spite of diabetes is start a family with the best two little girls a daddy could ask for.

Q6.5: The most disappointing thing I couldn’t do because of diabetes is be in the military or law enforcement.

Q7: Diabetes has shown me that I can do anything when I set my mind right.

Q8: What I want the world to know about my life with diabetes is it’s always “on” and there are no days off. I may make it look easy, but this shit is hard.

Q9: My life without the Diabetes Online Community would be harder because talking with others who have diabetes is a blessing.

Q10: When a cure is found I want to party like it’s 1999!  I mean like blow the doors off party. Plus, I might throw in a little cheesecake, skittles and a whole 3 Musketeers bar.

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Diabetes Social Media Advocacy – My List is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

• Pre-workout: complex carbohydrates with a bit of simple carbohydrates, too, like whole oats mixed with quickly-digested protein like 1 scoop of Whey protein (mixed with water or skim milk).
• Post-workout: The same thing! Complex carbohydrates mixed with simple carbohydrates, and quickly-digested protein. It sounds repetitive, but these meals should be viewed as fuel for your body, not a meal you sit down and enjoy.
• If you’re not into Whey protein shakes, then real food is your next choice. These will take longer to digest, but any type of lean animal protein or skim cottage cheese are good choices.

Thank you Ginger for the guest post and good luck with the new book!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhfO5iJJh-o

Guest Posters

If you are interested in submitting a guest post on Blogging Diabetes, please send the request using the contact page.

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Diabetes and Exercise with Ginger Vieira is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

• English muffin: 20-25 carbs
• Banana: 25 carbs
• Slice of bread:  20 carbs
• Diet Soda: 0 carbs
• Monster Lo-Carb: 6 carbs
• Cereal/Pop Tarts: a bazillion carbs (Trust me I’ve counted)
• Organic Pinto Beans: 19 carbs

You get the idea.  Sometimes it’s a guess, but more often it’s as quick as checking the nutritional facts on the label of the food item.  It’s a bit harder if you eat healthy, especially when it comes to a salad with lots of fresh veggies.  Now to the point of this post.

Whenever I look back reflecting on why my blood sugar is 300, many times it is because I really had no idea how many carbs there were (typical for bad or unhealthy food) or I grossly underestimated how much I ate (portion size).  I would also venture to say that one of the biggest mistakes I’ve made is not counting the condiments or sauces.  Here are some examples of “hidden” carbs:

• Spaghetti sauce: 13 carbs per half cup
• BBQ sauce: 15 carbs per 2 tbsp (wowza)
• Honey Mustard: 12 carbs per 2 tbsp

General Tso’s

On a rare occasion when I get Chinese food, my absolute favorite dish is General Tso’s Chicken (white meat only; I’m picky).  The problem is that whenever I get it with my wife, I have a HUGE delayed spike in my blood sugar.  The amount of insulin I take seems not even to matter.  I can pretty much set my watch to the spike.  The problem is I tend to eat a lot more than I should and it’s LOADED with sugar.  When you think of a Chinese chicken dish you tend not to think too much about the carbs.  I tend to focus on the white or fried rice that comes with it when counting carbs.  So when I bolus, my guess is about 20 carbs for the sauce.

A typical dish of General Tso’s sauce contains almost a cup, yes a CUP, of white sugar for 6 servings.  My guess is that I’m eating about half, which would make it a half cup.  So just the sauce alone has 100 carbs (a cup of white sugar is around 200 carbs).  The point of this post is to really drive home the fact that counting the carbs in sauces and really make or break your blood sugar control.  Heck, it could even save your life!

P.S.  My wife and I met at College in Smithfield, RI.  To this day, about 10 years later, I dream about our dates out and getting the General Tso Chicken at a little place down the street from Bryant University called Asia.  Best EVER!

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

The Secret Is In The Sauce is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

OneTouch Ultra Test Strips

I would always enjoy the little wins of opening a new box of test strips to find out the code matched the code I was already using in my meter.  Why? Because I didn’t have to figure out how to code the meter again or go through the simple process that I just thought was a hassle.  I mean seriously, why did I need to code the thing anyway?

Lifescan OneTouch Test Strips

Code 25

More recently, I noticed all of the new test strips were coded 25 for the OneTouch Ultra.  At first I thought it was just me being lucky.  After about 6 months, I tweeted about it and got the response that they are all being coded 25 now so there’s no more need to recode the meters.  SWEET!  It’s about time.  I appreciate the little things and the easy wins.  After digging through Google and Lifescan’s website, I couldn’t find any information to confirm the response I received.  I asked LifeScan about it and here is their response that confirms the fact that you don’t have to change the code from 25 anymore.

“Thank you for taking the time to write to us.  In regard to your inquiry, starting in July 2009, newly manufactured OneTouch Ultra Test Strips are being shipped with a new blue colored top tape and are being shipped in a new blue box.  All OneTouch Ultra Blue Test Strips are a code 25.  LifeScan made this business decision to help ensure customers are receiving an accurate blood glucose result.  As you are aware, having an improper code number on your meter will affect your results.  Should you ever question the quality of your test strips, please contact our Customer Service Department at the number provided below.” (LifeScan)

Do you think it’s a coincidence that they made this business decision right after I ran and published my experiment regarding how an incorrect code and give a significantly different number?  Probably.

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Diabetes Test Strips – Lifescan is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

In a recent post I asked for suggestions on where to donate money for diabetes.  Now there are the few big charities that most people know about, but what else is out there?  Or, if I want my money to go to a foundation that supports research for a cure, what’s the best choice?  On the other hand, I want to support diabetes awareness, what is the best charity for this direction?  Well, this post attempts to do a few things.  First, I list some of the major foundations all in one place to help others that may not know about them.  Also, I did a little research to try and find out where the money goes for each foundation to help guide you towards donating to a foundation that supports your wishes.  Finally, I am not saying one is better than another and don’t want to sway you in any way – please do your own checks before donating any money.  We are quickly approaching the end of the year when many people try to maximize their charitable giving for tax and personal purposes.

So, here is a list of diabetes foundations (more well-known or larger organizations) in no particular order.

American Diabetes Association [Donate]

Mission: “Our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.”

Focus: Mixed – research, services and advocacy

Annual Revenue: $205M (2009)

They say that 75% of each dollar donated goes towards “research, advocacy, and services for people affected by diabetes.”

The ADA appears to be the biggest diabetes foundation by far and makes it pretty easy to donate your money to them.  With them you can easily donate a car, stocks, mutual funds and even have wedding favors done (which is what I did).

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation [Donate]

Mission: “JDRF’s mission has been constant since it was founded four decades ago: to find a cure for type 1 diabetes and its complications through the support of research. Until a cure is found, JDRF is also committed to working tirelessly to develop new and better treatments to improve the lives of people who have type 1 diabetes and keep them as healthy as possible.”

Focus: Cure and improve lives of those with T1

Annual Revenue: $143.5M (2009)

The JDRF say that 82% of their expenditures in 2009 went towards Research and Education.  They also make it very easy to donate vehicles, stocks or include them in your will.

Diabetes Research Institute [Donate]

Mission: “We want to cure diabetes now.”  One of their longtime board members says it best, “We want to turn off the lights“

Annual Revenue: $7.7M

Focus: Cure

What I really like about DRI is that they are the leader for cure-focused diabetes research.

Joslin Diabetes Center [Donate]

Mission: “To improve the lives of people with diabetes—young and old—and to prevent and cure the disease.”

Annual Revenue: ???

Focus: Mixed -  support, research

It looks like the breakdown for donation dollars goes to: 55% High Hopes Fund, 41% Research and 4% Clinic.  High Hopes Fund: “The High Hopes Fund supports Joslin’s efforts to improve the lives of people with diabetes—young and old—and to prevent and cure the disease.”

This is one of the first places I went after being diagnosed because I wanted the best care.  I would say their facility is top-notch and one of the best in the country.  I traveled about an hour each way to go there when I was living in MA and now living in Maryland, I do miss it.

World Diabetes Foundation [Donate]

Mission: Education and advocate globally and provide care locally.

Focus: Education

Annual Donations: $12M

Here is the breakdown as to where their funding goes:

• 47% General Care
• 12% Awareness
• 14% Eye Care
• 9% Prevention
• 9% Foot Care
• 5% Mothers
• 4% Children

International Diabetes Federation

Mission: “The mission of the International Diabetes Federation is to promote diabetes care, prevention and a cure worldwide.”

Annual Revenue: ???

Focus: Education/Advocacy

“The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) is an umbrella organization of over 200 national diabetes associations in over 160 countries. It represents the interests of the growing number of people with diabetes and those at risk.”  They are also the leader for World Diabetes Day on November, 14th each year.

Faustman Labs [Donate]

Mission: Researching a cure for type 1 diabetes, Mass General

Focus: Cure

Info: Receives no federal money and depends on private donations.

“The Faustman Lab is now conducting human clinical trials with BCG, a widely-used, inexpensive generic drug that may help to remove the “bad” cells that cause type 1 diabetes. These clinical trials are unique because they are focused on people living with diabetes; they are not focused only on newly-diagnosed patients. Most importantly, the goal of Dr. Faustman’s clinical trials is to develop a cure for diabetes, not just manage the condition.

Phase I of the clinical trials began in January 2008 and showed that BCG is safe to use in individuals with type 1 diabetes. With your support, we can move forward to Phase II. Phase II will last three years and will cost approximately $25.2 million. At least $8.4 million will be needed to initiate the first year of Phase II. We have raised nearly $3 million towards this goal already.”

 

Diabetes Hands Foundation [Donate]

Mission: “DHF connects people touched by diabetes and raises diabetes awareness.”

Focus: Advocacy and social connection

Info: The DHF was founded by Manny Hernandez in 2008 who is also the guy behind TuDiabetes, a widely successful forum for people with diabetes.

This information has been provided to help in the event you are looking for a diabetes foundation.  Please find the right organization that supports what you would like done with the donation.  I am not associated or affiliated with any of these organizations and the information provided was from the foundation or their most recent annual report.

Want to know more about my personal insights into diabetes charitable giving?  Subscribe to the newsletter using the simple form below to find out!

Services to check out charities online to get additional information:

Guidestar

Charity Navigator, a guide to intelligent giving results for:

• Diabetes Research Institute
• Joslin Diabetes
• American Diabetes Association
• Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Diabetes Foundation: The Top Ones Reviewed is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

All you need to do to immediately get access to the guide is simply enter your name and email address in the form below or in the right sidebar.  I have created a Blogging Diabetes Newsletter that is going to be loaded with tips and information exclusive to those who sign up.  Similar to the Blogging Diabetes facebook page, there is information, tips and giveaways (like Chobani) that I will only make available to the subscribers.  You definitely will not get inundated with messages and I will never share your information, period.  So sign up now – you won’t regret it!

A special thank you goes to the following folks for helping to provide feedback on the guide:

• George
• Stacey
• Cherise
• Lorraine

P.S. This guide was complete well before last week’s DSMA discussion.

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

7 Simple Ways to Save $1000 is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

During my dieting I was trying to maintain a daily limit of 2,000 mg of sodium.  The American Heart Association recommends the average person be at 2,400 mgs per day.  I bet if you’ve never tracked your sodium you would be utterly shocked at how much is in different foods. Seriously, there are many foods that will put you at the limit alone never mind the rest of the day’s meals. Want to be really shocked?  Check out the sodium content of a McDonald’s value meal [shudder].

This article below, found in Men’s Health magazine, shows that the average amount of salt consumed daily is 3,466 mg compared to the recommended 2,400.  That’s an astounding 40% over.  Ever wonder why so many people have high blood pressure? It’s in everything. Seriously. The biggest culprits are meats, especially deli meats, and processed foods like crackers, cookies, breads and chips. 

Shockingly [sarcasm], the way to avoid taking in too much salt is to A) avoid table salt and B) eat more fruits and vegetables.  I never use table salt and just about everyone could probably use a little more fruit and veggies in their diet.  For us with diabetes, a diet with more fruits and veggies is ideal.  So when I was trying to lose some weight, it wasn’t until I reduced the sodium and increased water intake that I really noticed some serious progress. Give it a try.

So how does sodium relate to diabetes?  Well, it’s all in the diet.  People with diabetes (PWD) and those trying to limit their sodium intake should both follow the same diet – lots of veggies and fruit.  Also, limiting the complex and refined carbohydrates is key for anyone regardless of a condition.

P.S. Even I was amazed that 9 out of 10 Americans exceed their recommended daily sodium limit.

Does that surprise you?

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Diabetes and Salt Intake is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

To add fuel to the fire, I came across this article in a recent issue of Men’s Health that says “muscle reduces insulin resistance”.  I think most people know that exercise helps manage blood sugars, but I bet not everyone knows that adding muscle and help keep insulin at its peak in terms of effectiveness.  This article is probably for geared towards type 2 diabetes or those trying to avoid type 2.

d

My doctor always reminds me that life doesn’t slow down because I have diabetes.  Everyone is busy and there are always more things to do, more work that needs to get done and only 24 hours in the day.  That’s probably why I’m writing this after 11 at night. It’s time to start carving out at least 30 minutes to build some muscle and exercise.  I have a full gym at my house and even with it being convenient it’s hard to make the time.

What’s your plan to pack on some muscle and shed some pounds in the process?

With winter fast approaching and the Holiday season coming, it’s time to start now and finish the last 2 months of the year strong instead of waiting until 1-1-2011.  I’m going to start with the cardio to keep my weight in check and do mostly dumbbells with lighter weight until I know my shoulder won’t snap in half.

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I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support. This blog is better because of you.

Building Muscle with Diabetes is a post from: Blogging Diabetes