Some topics I cover are:

• Episode 27 Previous podcast – Interview with Alexis Newell, co-founder of Blue Heel Society
• Pump it Up – Kids parties
• Clean Eating Magazine
• Diabetes Events & Conferences
• CWD Tech event 2/25 & 2/26
• DRI – Hope Ball 2/18
• JDRF – Research Summit 2/18
• DSMA Live with me
• Run Keeper App
• Run Tracker App
• Map My Run App
• Article – New school lunch standards
• Pilot study on Resveratrol and insulin sensitivity
• Fitbit Aria – WiFi smart scale
• Glooko $3.5 funding
• Article – Weekly shots for those with type 2 diabetes
• Next week will feature an interview with Stacey

Run time: 28:50

How to Review in iTunes <– Video

Would you like to be a guest on the podcast or have someone in mind you would like me to have on?  Just drop me a message using the following:

• BDP Hotline for voice mail or text messages: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

.....................................................................

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

BDP 028 | Upcoming Diabetes Events, Leftovers, Clean Eating, Apps and News is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Some topics I cover are:

• Episode 26 Previous podcast – Dukan Diet, Saving My Life and News
• BD Project – Diabetes Events & Conferences
• Instant Heart Rate App
• Skin Prevention App
• Blue Heel Society
• Blue Chucks Society
• JDRF
• Apidra
• Novalog
• Celiac Disease
• Alopecia Areata – Hair loss
• Genetic Testing for Diabetes: HLA-DR3 or HLA-DR4.
• Tony T1 Rider
• A1c Standard Deviations mean more than the percentage itself
• DSMA Live on Thursday with me 9PM EST
• Interview with Alexis Newell co founder of the Blue Heel Society

Run time: 58:27

How to Review in iTunes <– Video

Would you like to be a guest on the podcast or have someone in mind you would like me to have on?  Just drop me a message using the following:

• BDP Hotline for voice mail or text messages: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

.....................................................................

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

BDP 027 | Alexis Newell Interview, Apps and Diabetes Project is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

I am really looking forward to the notion of “Better” as Chuck Eichten would say in his book.  There are a few different areas that I’m going to be focusing on in the coming months and year.  For the last 14 years I’ve been doing “good” at my diabetes management.  This year I want to take it to the next level and do better!  Here is how I plan to take things up a notch:

1. Diabetes Technology – I plan to utilize more technology to help with my diabetes management.  What I’ve been talking about for almost a year now is a CGM to help gather more data to tweak my basal, bolus and carb:insulin ratio.  I’ve been fighting this for some time now because I feel like there will be a new shiny CGM as soon as I get the current one.  It’s the whole buy today’s technology or wait just a little long for the next best thing.  Frankly, I’m tired of waiting and ready to pull the trigger.  I’m going to be working on a project to help with my decision in the coming month or so.
2. Health – In the last 30 days (started the day after Xmas) I’ve lost 11 pounds with ZERO exercise.  It’s all been done through the Dukan diet as recommended by my doctor.  This is just the start.  I’m just now starting to get back into my exercising, cardio and more of the diet.  This should help me lose more pounds to get to my goal of 190 pounds.  From there I can work on building back some lean muscle.  My biggest concern is to take it easy as to not re-injure my shoulders.
3. Blogging Diabetes – Over the last 6 months I have been dedicating a significant amount of time to the Podcast, which has been a HUGE success.  The response I’ve gotten is awesome.  In the coming months and year I’m planning on continuing the weekly diabetes podcast and adding more interviews, projects and video.  I’ll probably be investing a bit in equipment for doing more videos.  I am as focused as ever on the blog in all aspects and that’s not going to change.  More content, information, podcasts, videos, interviews, etc.
4. Family (non diabetes)- Welcoming baby #3 in June! YAY WOO HOO!  We find out on Monday if it’s a boy or girl.

As a huge supporter of DSMA (Diabetes Social Media Advocacy) this is my entry in January’s Blog Carnival found here.  As you can see, I plan to make every effort to be involved in DSMA this year.

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

DSMA – January Carnival: Blogging Diabetes in 2012 is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Some topics I cover are:

• Episode 25 Previous podcast – Interview with Cherise Shockley
• Typical day for me on the Dukan diet
• Great Wolf Lodge mini vacation
• How my wife saved my life
• Animas Ping pump (waterproof)
• OmniPod pump (waterproof)
• Medtronic Minimed pump
• Dawn Phenomenon and BDP 005
• Paula Dean announced type 2 diabetes
• Telcare BGM – Wireless cell enabled meter
• CareLogger – Website for logging blood sugars, activities, etc.
• Petflow.com – Website for home delivered pet food
• Next weeks interview with Alexis Newell co founder of the Blue Heel Society

Run time: 38:29

How to Review in iTunes <– Video

Would you like to be a guest on the podcast or have someone in mind you would like me to have on?  Just drop me a message using the following:

• BDP Hotline for voice mail or text messages: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

.....................................................................

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

BDP 026 | Day on Dukan, Saving My Life and Diabetes News is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Here are some of the topics we covered as Brendon points out on A1c53:`

• On top of his full family and work life responsibilities, his exercise, and his new dukan diet, he blogs / podcasts / and tweets about his and others’ diabetes so that we can all learn to manage our diabetes better.
• Tony’s house near the woods and his zoo (so to speak)
• Working from home and what Tony does for a job
• How he finds time to be a type 1 diabetic on top of his busy life
• Tony’s home exercise routine
• How he treats low blood sugars
• How much carbohydrate Tony has with meals, and his new Dukan diet
• Carbohydrate counting with meals
• Tony’s eggs (aka ‘the dairy section in the grocery store’)

You can also find Brendon on twitter with the handle @A1C53.

Check it out and let me know what you think in the comments below.

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

Brendon’s Interview of me on A1c53 – Little Known Facts is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Some topics I cover are:

• Episode 24 Previous podcast – Losing a job because of diabetes and diet update
• Medtronic’s Carelink is not yet compatible with Mac OS Lion and is pending FDA approval
• Interview with Cherise Shockley
• Type 1 vs. Type 1.5 or LADA
• C Peptide test and levels
• #HCSM - Healthcare Communications and Social Media
• OmniPod and Dexcom
• Celebration of Strength - National Conference
• Army Wife (Thank you Scott!) and mom
• Why those with T1 diabetes don’t often get a Pancreas Transplant
• You can find Cherise on her blog, twitter or Diabetes Social Media website

Run time: 48:54

How to Review in iTunes <– Video

Would you like to be a guest on the podcast or have someone in mind you would like me to have on?  Just drop me a message using the following:

• BDP Hotline for messages or texts: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

.....................................................................

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

BDP 025 | Cherise Shockley Interview, DSMA, LADA and DOC Rockstar is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Some topics I cover are:

• Episode 23 Previous podcast – Interview with Brendon Livingstone from New Zealand
• Losing a job and career because of being diagnosed with diabetes
• Dukan Diet update
• 4 Phases of the Dukan diet and what’s allowed in each phase
• Update to the “Holy Grail of Diabetes” comment made a while back
• American Diabetes Association stance on blanket driving restrictions for those with diabetes
• Dietbet.com – competition between friends, coworkers etc. “Lose weight and take their money”
• Healthywage.com – Win money for losing weight
• Stickk.com – Create a contract and set a goal, money lost goes to a foundation of your choice
• Patients continue to want access to online medical records
• MySentry from Medtronic to monitor the blood sugars and insulin of someone like children with diabetes (CWD) – cost is steep at a discounted rate of $2,400
• Watson computer (Jeopardy) to work with diabetes in the future
• Study – Low protein diets can lead to increased fat storage

Run time: 43:41

How to Review in iTunes <– Video

Would you like to be a guest on the podcast or have someone in mind you would like me to have on?  Just drop me a message!

For feedback:

• BDP Hotline for messages or texts: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

.....................................................................

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

BDP 024 | Losing a Job Because of Diabetes, Diet Progress & Challenge Websites and Diabetes News is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Some topics I cover are:

• Episode 22 Previous podcast – Pump warning, basal test, insulin consumption, diets and news
• New Years/Christmas
• 2012 Resolutions
• Tips: Browser and Cozi planner
• Brendon Livingstone from New Zealand and blogger/podcaster at A1c53.com covering:
• Dating with diabetes
• Losing a job due to diabetes
• Exercise and running with diabetes
• A1c53
• Getting kids to eat vegetables
• Diabetes in New Zealand

Run time: 1:10:56

How to Review in iTunes <– Video

Would you like to be a guest on the podcast or have someone in mind you would like me to have on?  Just drop me a message!

For feedback:

• BDP Hotline for messages or texts: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

.....................................................................

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

BDP 023 | Brendon Livingstone from A1C53, Tips and New Years is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Some topics I cover are:

• Episode 21 Previous podcast – Interview with Jennifer, Symlin, Wrist Bands and Diabetes News
• Results from my basal rate check
• Next steps for further basal rate checking and what may help with the process
• Record insulin usage in a single day – disgusts me to even think about it
• 2 Day response from my new Endo messaging and his suggestions around Symlin
• Recommended for me: Paleo and Dukan Diets
• One Touch Verio IQ system described on Amy’s site
• It’s Dailyfeats.com and not Diabetesfeats.com - Site that makes doing healthy things fun and rewarding – JDRF fundraiser too
• Glooko – connect blood sugar meter to iPhone
• WPI Funding for wireless connection between blood sugar meter and smart phone
• Study – Risk of Kidney Disease in tight and poor control measured in A1c terms
• Warning about detox diets promising weight loss
• Personal story about my 2nd daughter and plan for #3
• Insulin pump warning – something that happened to me for the first time EVER on an insulin pump
• No podcast on 12/29

Merry Christmas and have a safe and awesome New Years!

Run time: 38:25

iTunes Review update

Would you like to be a guest on the podcast or have someone in mind you would like me to have on?  Just drop me a message!

For feedback:

• BDP Hotline: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

.....................................................................

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

BDP 022 | Insulin Pump Warning, Basal Results, Insulin Consumption, New Diets and Diabetes News is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Some topics I cover are:

• Episode 20 Previous podcast – Basal Rates, Artificial Pancreas, Diet, Goals and Dexcom
• Basal rate update and plan
• Weight management struggles
• 3500 calories = 1 pound
• Diabetes silicone wrist bands
• *Interview* with Jennifer Dean, her blog and twitter
• Symlin and Amylin to help control blood sugars
• Square wave bolus
• Exciting news here at Blogging Diabetes
• IBGStar and FDA approval in U.S.

Run time: 46:20

Questions of the Podcast

1. How often should you check your basal rates?

Would you like to be a guest on the podcast or have someone in mind you would like me to have on?  Just drop me a message!

For feedback:

• BDP Hotline: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

.....................................................................

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

BDP 021 | Jennifer Dean Interview, Diabetes Wrist Bands, Breaking News, IBGStar is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Some topics I cover are:

• Session 19 Previous podcast – Type 3 Interview and pre diabetes
• Basal rate or long lasting insulin dosage changes
• Diet to reduce A1c
• 2011 Goals and planning for 2012
• Dexcom and FSA
• A1c results and obsession
• Vacation loaner pumps – Medtronic ($50 shipping fee) and Animas (cost unknown)
• Dexcom study
• Artificial pancreas
• Pancreas transplant
• Insulin Pump Advantages and disadvantages
• Correction – artificial pancreas technology may not cost us all that much more if on a pump and CGM

Run time: 38:47

Questions of the Podcast

1. How often do you tweak or change your basal rate or long lasting insulin dosage?
2. If you know someone that uses a service dog for diabetes, please let me know.

Would you like to be a guest on the podcast or have someone in mind you would like me to have on?  Just drop me a message!

For feedback:

• BDP Hotline: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

.....................................................................

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

BDP 020 | Basal Rates, Diabetes Diet, Goals, Dexcom, Loaner Pump and Artificial Pancreas is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

So the folks at the publishing house for Robyn’s book provided my a copy of this cookbook to try out probably because of my mad skills in the kitchen.  Yeah, that’s it.  It probably has more to do with my history of diabetes and love for cooking meals for me and my family.  To be completely transparent, this cookbook was provided to me free of charge with no strings or promises attached.  Clearly, I’m going to blog about it though, right?  Right!

I did mention it in my podcast #18 with a few initial comments.  I’m a little biased because I am very much into health, fitness and clean eating.  When I think of comfort foods, the things that come to mind first are not healthy.   The book is well written by Robyn who seems to be very qualified to write this book.  The problem I have is the link of diabetes to a certain diet or type of cooking, but that’s because I am a Type 1 diabetic.  Those with type 2 diabetes need to be more careful especially if they do not supplement with medication.  So right off the bat I’m thinking these will not be healthy, which turns me off a bit.

I was a little wrong and the recipes tend to use the lean and healthy options that I would to minimize excessive simple carbs.  Each recipe also lists the exchange amounts and nutritional facts, which is a must for a great cookbook.  Another great aspect to this book is the helpful tips throughout the book, like “how to saute the right way”.  As I flip through the cookbook it’s easy to notice the variety of recipe options that will fit into anyone’s style or preference for types of meals.

The biggest drawback to this cookbook is that each recipe does NOT have a picture.  There are only pictures on every 5 or 6 recipes or pages, which is a big turnoff.  I am a very visual person and love the meal pictures.  This is kind of a make or break deal for my staple cookbooks.  I understand that it’s probably expensive and time consuming to have an image for each recipe.  To me this is the difference between 4 stars and maybe 5 stars.  I can’t wait to try out some of the recipes. If you’re looking for some guideance towards foods to cook that may be carb friendly, this is a good buy at $13.  If you have it let me know what you think!

New Comfort Food Cookbook brings American & International Classics to People with Diabetes

Many people assume a diagnosis of diabetes means the days of celebrating the foods they love are officially over.  But sensing the need for a cookbook that brings back the pleasure of a satisfying and familiar meal – Publications is introducing its latest cookbook: The American Diabetes Association Diabetes Comfort Food Cookbook. It’s authored by a familiar person to the association, Robyn Webb. Robyn is the food editor of Diabetes Forecast® Magazine and each month Robyn writes her own column, “Healthy Eating” and is the recipe developer and tester for the magazine.

Sprinkled with helpful tips and time-saving advice, The American Diabetes Association Diabetes Comfort Food Cookbook redefines classic American and International comfort food.  It is a “go-to” collection of recipes for families that need to cook nutritionally sound and diabetes-friendly meals that will satisfy everyone at the table. The days of cooking two meals to please everyone in the household are over.

“For us, this was one of those ‘why haven’t done this already?’ type projects,” said Abe Ogden, Director, Book Publishing. “It’s a beautiful cookbook filled with amazing recipes. And to have Robyn—who we’ve worked with for a number of years and who is so involved with the Association—develop and write the book made it a no-brainer. She gave us a very nice opportunity to strengthen our cooperation with Diabetes Forecast, who put together a fantastic feature on the book for the September issue. We’re really excited.” The American Diabetes Association Diabetes Comfort Food Cookbook can be purchased at Amazon or shopdiabetes.org for around $13.

Robyn Webb, MS, LN, is an award-winning cookbook author, nutritionist, and the Food Editor of Diabetes Forecast® Magazine. She has written 14 cookbooks, including the American Diabetes Association bestseller Diabetic Meals in 30 Minutes—Or Less! She has numerous media credits, including Food Network, Martha Stewart Radio, Lifetime Television, Discovery Channel, CNN, CBS, ABC, ESPN, and many more. Her work has been highlighted in the Washington Post, Woman’s Day, USA Today, Fine Cooking, and many online health, fitness, and food websites and magazines.   Robyn can be found on Twitter at and on Facebook.

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

Cookbook Geared Towards Those With Diabetes is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Some topics I cover are:

• Session 18 – Previous podcast – Thanksgiving plan and results
• Sickness tip using basal rate
• Pre Diabetes
• New resources on Blogging Diabetes
• Interview of Type 3 (wife) including questions around:
• Q: Cure in my lifetime?
• Q: Leave me because of diabetes?
• Q: My diagnosis?
• Q: Our kids getting diabetes?
• Q: How do you rate me with my diabetes mgmt?
• Q: Will diabetes kill me one day?
• Q: I test her knowledge of diabetes
• Q: Advice for other Type 3′s

Run time: 32:02

Would you like to be a guest on the podcast or have someone in mind you like me to have on?  Just drop me a message!

For feedback:

• BDP Hotline: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

.....................................................................

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

BDP 019 | Type 3 Interview, Thanksgiving, Sickness Tip and Pre Diabetes is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

My wife was flipping through the latest Take Charge publication for November and pointed out an article listing 10 (really 9) Superfoods.  Here is a list of what is in the magazine:

1. Dark Green Leafy Veggies
2. Citrus Fruit
3. Sweet Potatoes
4. Berries
5. Tomatoes
6. Fish with OMEGA-3s
7. Whole Grains
8. Nuts
9. Fat-Free Milk and Yogurt

Take Charge is published in cooperation with the medical experts of American Diabetes Association.

You know what this list reminds me of?  The foods and categories that anyone trying to be healthy should be eating on a daily basis.  There are a few overlaps between what they listed and the 7 that I included in my newsletter.  I got a little more specific than just: nuts or dark green leafy veggies, which you can see by signing up for the newsletter.  It’s absolutely free and will NOT inundate you with emails.  Best part is that you can unsubscribe with 1 click, no questions asked and will not hurt my feelings.

For those with diabetes, this is a great list to start from.  I’m not totally sold on the citrus fruits and tend to not eat as much fruit as I do other healthy categories.  There just seems to be too much natural sugar that tends to spike my blood sugar and not fill me up as much as other things.

What would you add to this list?

Oh, and in case you didn’t already know, November is Diabetes Awareness month!

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

Ten “Superfoods” You Can’t Afford to Live Without is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

This session runs a little longer than most because next Thursday is Thanksgiving and there is not going to be a podcast.  I cover some great topics and can’t wait to jump into one of the new books I got this week about diabetes.  Not only will you hear me touch on topics never discussed before, but you will hear a strained voice from me being sick.  Proper coverage with insurance is a huge topic in the healthcare world and with diabetes patients, but not too many touch on life insurance for those with diabetes like I did in this podcast.

Here in the U.S., have a great Thanksgiving and for everyone, I hope you enjoy this session!

Run time: 40 minutes on the dot!

Some topics I cover in this session:

• Session 1 – Most listened to podcast to date
• Podcasts great for on-the-go: commutes, walking gym, exercising, etc.
• Caffeine Drink I did NOT like – Big Red Zero due out in December
• Diet Coke knowledge test – 45 mg sodium
• 2 New Diabetes books below and one’s tie to the American Diabetes Association
• Simple/Skinny Skillet – Free to sign up
• Diabetic Skillet – Free to sign up (App is extra)
• Blanching process when cooking – bacon can be blanched???
• Life Insurance for those with Diabetes
• Cracked heel – OUCH
• Mariah Carey – Gestational Diabetes with twins
• World Diabetes Day – Big Blue Test reached goal of 8k tests
• Test blood sugar with tears
• Insulin was invented in 1922

The Diabetes Comfort Food Cookbook released on 10/11/11.

The Book of Better: Life with Diabetes Can’t be Perfect, Make it Better released on 11/1/11.

For feedback:

• BDP Hotline: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

.....................................................................

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

BDP 018 | New Diabetes Books, Healthy Options, Life Insurance and Diabetes News is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

I really thought and tried not to talk too long and it still went almost a half hour.  This week covers a bit more on this week’s post about Glooko and what’s coming from them next week.  I also talk another App that someone shared with me that seems promising.  Also, I discuss a bit more about my doctors view of an A1c under 8%.  This week ends with a few questions from listeners about: red wine, green tea and protein shakes.  So far my Big Blue Tests have been very promising and further show that exercise is the key to diabetes management.

Run time: 29:12

Some topics I cover in this session:

• Session 16
• Glooko Review, company, MeterSync
• A1c 8% Clarification
• ADA A1c Guidelines
• Big Blue Test goal of 8000 tests by Nov 14th
• MyChart App
• Red Wine and resveratrol
• Caffeine update
• BSN Protein and AST Protein
• Green Tea
• Correction – Monday is the 14th and Diabetes Awareness Day, not Tuesday

Questions:

1) Do you think red wine or green tea is good for you in moderation?

I hope you enjoy the session!

For feedback:

• BDP Hotline: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

.....................................................................

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

BDP 017 | Big Blue Test, Apps, A1c, Glooko, Wine, Tea and Protein is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Disclaimer: I’ve personally spoken to Anita/Molly at Glooko, discussed their mission/vision and about what these products mean to them.  They supplied me with the MeterSync Cable free of charge to try and provide feedback on.  As always I will continue to provide true feedback to both the company and community here regardless of what was given to me for free.  This is never negotiable and is always stated before anything is exchanged.

Glooko

Glooko’s mission: to help people with diabetes live life while effortlessly managing their diabetes.

Glooko has two products that will be available to the public on November 15th that consist of the Glooko iPhone App (iTunes) and Glooko MeterSync cable (Amazon).

So what does Glooko do that solves a current problem?  Glooko removes the need to manually log blood sugar tests for those with a meter that is compatible with Glooko and who have an iPhone/iPod Touch.  Per my discussion with Anita, Glooko is looking to possibly expand their offering to Android based phones and add addition blood sugar meters.  To see if your meter is supported, here is a list of ones that currently work with Glooko.

How Does Glooko Work?

So how does Glooko work?  You simply connect the cable from your compatible meter to your iPhone/Ipod Touch and go to the App. The home screen has two simple options: Sync or Add Note (food, exercise, insulin or comment).  It took about 25 seconds for me to sync 500 blood sugar readings from my OneTouch UltraLink meter.  It’s really that simple.  No more logging each individual blood sugar.  Now you have all of your data where ever you have your phone.  The App was designed to be simple and very easy to use.  You can:

• Sync data
• Add Note
• View history in either list format or by time intervals of the day
• Email a PDF or send eFax of the last 14 Days worth of readings
• Check “Opinions” on the Internet, which is like a news feature
• Adjust settings (Meter type, send feedback to Glooko right on the phone, clear data, export data to .csv and email or by a cable via Amazon)

There isn’t a whole lot of other fluff in the App to get caught up in, which makes the experience very pleasant and easy.

How To Get It

The MeterSync Cable will go on sale via Amazon on November 15th for $39.95 and the App will be free via the iTunes store.  I thought the cost was a little high at first, but after talking through it with Anita and hear about all the R&D and Royalties that are paid to Apple, it makes sense.  Similar to a lot of accessories for an iPhone, the cost over the life of the item is usually worth it and this is no exception.

***UPDATE*** MeterSync cable is NOW available.

The Good

• Simple to use
• reasonable price point for the cable and free app
• No more manually logging
• Calendar view makes it very easy to spot trends at certain times of the day
• Ability to email data in .csv or 14 Day summary in PDF format – these are awesome features
• Feedback or questions go directly to Glooko and they responded to my unannounced test within 5 minutes (though this is pre launch)
• I was able to upload data from 2 meters (work UltraLink and home UltraLink) and it integrated the data seamlessly
• Fast sync – 25 seconds to sync to my iPhone 4s 500 blood sugars
• No computer needed
• No subscription needed that incurs additional cost

The Opportunities

• Add more compatible meters
• Add Android operating system version of the App
• Provide some type of added value using the data like: average blood sugar or simple chart features
• Integrate social media that makes it fun like: Tweet or Facebook status update when a person syncs or take it one step farther and add a community feature on the website
• Person must have a smartphone (iPhone today)
• Cost reduction even if it’s to $29.95 because we all know how expensive diabetes management can be
• Possibly do something different with the Opinions page as I don’t think I would use it much – it could be replaced with more analytics features like a simple chart

My Opinion

I think there is a very large target audience where Glooko will fill a big need.  Specifically, this is perfect for those not on an insulin pump like me and use CareLink.  Since all of my blood sugar data is sent to my pump via wireless, I upload it all from my pump to CareLink where I can do a lot of in-depth analysis.  Now, for those that don’t have this option or may be T2, this is a great product because of it’s simplicity and lack of much manual work.  Being able to transfer 1000 blood sugars from my two meters to my iPhone in less than a minute is A LOT quicker than manually logging them, which would never happen.  Also, being able to send the data in PDF format to my doctor via email on my phone within a min is another big benefit.  See, Glooko not only solves a long-standing problem, it removes a lot of the excuses about a patient not having data.  Glooko will help people manage their diabetes better and easier, which could literally be a lifesaver.  I will be sharing more in this week’s upcoming podcast, so tune in on Thursday!

What Others Are Saying

• Amy’s review at Diabetesmine
• Michael’s review at Hello Cupcake It’s Me

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

Glooko | Diabetes Logging Without Manual Entry is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Even when I think it’s going to be a 10-15 minute session, it goes a half hour.  I’m not a talker or don’t think of myself as one that is chatty, so I must be greatly underestimating my content.  This week I cover my Halloween with the kids, A1c results from last week’s session and doctor’s visit, diabetes awareness, Medtronic study and a few listener questions & answers.  I’ll hold off until next week to share my #bigbluetest results that I talked about in this episode.

Run time: 32:18

Some topics I cover in this session:

• Session 15
• Newsletter Plug for A1c Trend
• A1c Chart
• Big Blue Test
• Post Card Exchange
• Egg link to T2 Diabetes Study
• Medtronic – Low Glucose Suspend
• Blogdiabetes on Instagram for sharing photos
• Correction to my tubing comments – I meant to say I’ve gone 6 days on an infusion set tubing, not infusion set.

Questions:

1) Do you reuse infusion set tubing?

2) Do you have any suggestions for healthy Thanksgiving Day recipes?

I hope you enjoy the session!

For feedback:

• BDP Hotline: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

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

BDP 016 | A1c Results, Halloween, Diabetes Awareness, Medtronic and Q&A is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

3 years ago today I posted the first blog post on Blogging Diabetes.  A few hundred posts, many comments and now hours worth of podcasts later – I’m having a blast!  I love helping others.  I love learning more about diabetes and enjoy sharing all my successes and failures with you along the way.

Here’s to much, much more!

Thank you for visiting my site and helping make this all possible!

Tony

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

3-Year Milestone Achieved is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

I can’t believe how long I talked in this week’s episode because it’s simply jam packed full of info, questions, news and topics I had come up and wanted to share with you.  I’ll try to keep the sessions closer to 30 minutes, but sometimes you just get on a role, right?  This week’s episode covers my doctor’s visit and the fun with that, a new gadget I picked up, Apps, missed opportunities, questions from some listeners, Diabetes in the news and also the hot topic of being able to hack an insulin pump.

Run time: 46:22

Some topics I cover in this session:

• My Doctor’s Appointment, Flu shot, fasting (Cholesterol) and online records
• Heart Rate Monitor (Aff Link) – Resting rates are 60-100 and target cardio for me is 130-167
• Glucose Buddy
• Missed Opportunities
• My A1c’s in the newsletter
• Q&A from Facebook
• Diabetes Type wars
• Almonds as a great snack that do have a tiny amount of Saturated fat
• Pareto Rule – Not sure if I explained this accurately
• BPA – link to diabetes
• Pump Hackers

Lab results will be in next week’s podcast! I hope you enjoy the session!

For feedback:

• BDP Hotline: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

.....................................................................

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

BDP 015 | Lab Results, Heart Rate, Apps, Opportunities, Q&A, BPA and Pump Hacking is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

Well I’m still trying to figure out all the gadgets on my new iphone, but absolutely love it.  I was in love with my old Droid, but the slickness of the iphone is amazing.  I can’t wait to try out Glucose Buddy (update – just hitting post on this blog and downloaded the app) for the iphone and maybe some others.  If you have any suggestions or tips I’d love to hear about them.

This week’s episode is packed full of updates and information relative to what’s been going on this past week and also in the news.  I also get into why I was worried about what I did this past weekend and how it all turned out.  I am still finding myself looking forward to recording the week’s episode and keep jotting down notes for the next podcast shortly after recording the current one.  Blogging Diabetes is coming up on a big milestone soon that I will share in an upcoming episode.

Run time: 33:01

Some topics I cover in this session:

• Session 13 – Follow up to gushers and a caffeine update
• World Diabetes Day and Lee Ann’s Postcard Exchange
• Beachbody.com – My extreme home exercises
• Paintball with type 1 diabetes
• JDRF Walk in Western MA (News)
• Regenerate beta cells of the pancreas (News)

Thank you so much for your support, and if you have yet to leave a rating or review, please leave me an honest one on iTunes by clicking here. It will help me to improve the show and I would truly appreciate it!

I hope you enjoy the session!

QOTP (Question of the Podcast)

Do you think there will be a cure for T1 diabetes in your lifetime?

For feedback:

• BDP Hotline: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

These podcasts are on iTunes

Direct RSS feed for podcast episodes

.....................................................................

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

BDP 014 | WDD, Diabetes Info, Updates, Q&A and Paintball is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

This is super cool and I’m excited to participate in Lee Ann’s postcard exchange for this year’s World Diabetes Day.   Below is the rules for the exchange and a little bit about why Lee Ann wanted to start this for WDD.  I find it really nastalgic to think back to grade school (WAY BACK) before there was e-mail and writing to pen pals.  I wonder what kids do these days, e-mail pals???  Anyway, this exchange will be a fun way to share a little bit of your diabetes with someone who gets it.  The greatest thing I have related to diabetes is the on/offline community that shares, doesn’t judge and just understands.  As of writing this, a TON of people have signed up so let’s all join together.  I signed up!

Please take a moment to let Lee Ann know you want to be involved.

Lee Ann’s Postcard Exchange

Here are the rules (as displayed on The Butter Compartment):
1) Email your postal address to Lee Ann: leeann@thebuttercompartment.com. If you would like to be matched with an adult, child or family, another type 1 or type 2, or if you are a type 3, spouse, sibling or parent, please indicate that. I will do my absolute best to match you with someone who is similar. Otherwise, your assigned recipient will be random in that regard, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing! We’re sending old-school post office-delivered postcards, so I need your snail mail address.
2) Expect to receive an email with the name and address of your postcard recipient. I’m trying to collect a nice list of participants from many different places, and as soon as the list fills out, I’ll be sending those emails.
3) Use the WDD Blue Circle and all the creativity you can fit on a 3.5”x5” piece of cardstock.
4) On the back of the postcard, complete this mini D meme, in addition to anything else you’d like to share with your recipient:

Your name:
Where you live:
Your connection to diabetes:
Type of diabetes:
Year of diagnosis:
One thing you do to Act On Diabetes:
One Word:

5) Mail it, ideally in time for the recipient to receive it by November 14th. If you’re unable to do that, please at least have it postmarked by then.
6) Check your mailbox for a postcard from the person who was assigned your name and address.
7) If you like, post a photo of the postcard you receive on the World Diabetes Day Postcard Exchange Facebook page.

Before I proceed, let me respond to anyone who is skeptical about sharing their address. I’m very conscientious about people’s confidentiality in all realms of my life as a result of my professional responsibilities. Other than the one person who will be assigned your name and address as their postcard recipient, your address will not be distributed or abused in any way. It’s reasonable to be wary, but I want to reassure all that I have no nefarious intentions. The worst that will happen is you might get a Christmas card from me IF I get off my butt and start making some.

Lee Ann’s Vision

Creativity: Needless to say, there is some creativity required on your part. I’m predictable like that. I will have some follow-up posts here with ideas, inspiration, and just some basic practical suggestions for the making of the postcard. I know that the easier this is, the more people will participate, so I want to make it easy. If you want to get fancy-pants with your postcard, that’s up to you.

Connection: As a kid, I lived for diabetes camp. Camp Sweeney was the only place where the shame I had for having diabetes evaporated, and being able to shirk that burden for a few weeks in the summer was a gift and a life-saver. During the rest of the year, I lived to check the mail in hopes of finding a letter from my camp friends. We elaborately decorated envelopes and letters, postmarked works of love and art. Just writing about it is making me teary-eyed because long before the internet, that was my reminder that I wasn’t alone. Looking in my mailbox and finding a reminder that someone else with diabetes was thinking about me still makes my heart burst with joy. We all deserve that, and I hope you feel it too when you get your postcard.

Participation & Activism: Because of where some people are geographically, the options for connecting with others on World Diabetes Day are limited or don’t exist at all. My belief is that no matter where you live, you should be able to participate in World Diabetes Day by connecting to someone else with diabetes. It’s not the same as hanging out with people in person, but I feel like a postcard exchange will allow us all to celebrate together. Imagine postcards with bright blue circles spinning around the globe, connecting us to each other!

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

World Diabetes Postcard Exchange is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

I really enjoy recording these podcasts and I hope you find them beneficial.  This week I give an update on the whole blood sugar imaginary floor and my exercise routine.  On Friday I will be getting my first iPhone (4s) and I’m really excited to try out a few diabetes related apps that were never available on Android.

What makes this week a bit special is that I lay it all out there for you.  You can probably tell by the sound of my voice and sense the frustration I’ve been having around caffeine.  Mixed in is a little bit about Gushers and some diabetes news.  The session’s question is around my thoughts on what it might mean to be on injection  or an insulin pump therapy in terms of weight control or weight gain.  Please let me know what you think or if there is anything you would like to hear me cover in an upcoming episode.

Run time: 31:41

In this session I cover:

• Session 12 – Struggling with blood sugar floor
• BodyBugg ($179) and BodyBugg iPhone App
• Glucose Buddy iPhone App
• Caffeine Addiction (maybe I’m just weak)
• School Notice on Energy Drinks for kids
• Gusher
• Syringe vs. Pump on weight gain – Disadvantages and Advantages
• Awareness Envy by Amy of A Sweet Life
• Orlando Brown former Baltimore Raven died of Ketoacidosis

Thank you so much for your support, and if you have yet to leave a rating or review, please leave me an honest one on iTunes by clicking here. It will help the show and I would truly appreciate it!

Enjoy the session!

QOTP (Question of the Podcast)

Do you think someone on an insulin pump is apt to be more overweight than those on syringes?

For feedback:

• BDP Hotline: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

These podcasts are on iTunes

Direct RSS feed for podcast episodes

.....................................................................

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

BDP 013 | iPhone, Caffeine Addiction, Gushers, Syringes vs. Pump and Diabetes News is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

This week’s podcast covers a very scary situation I experienced over the past week with regards to my diabetes management.  Is this the point where everything changes?  Will I look back to this period and remember it as the turning point?

I have no idea why I’m so drawn to flash mob videos.  For some reason they just make me smile.  Another thing that makes me smile is a special person leaving me a message about the podcast in this week’s episode.

Run time: 24:03

In this session I cover:

• My Story (never told before)
• Stress and Diabetes
• Diabetes Flash Mob (Proposal Flash Mob)
• Diabetes 101
• Blogging Diabetes Resources
• Almonds and it’s benefits
• Diabetes Awareness Month
• Scott at www.scottsdiabetes.com

Thank you so much for your support, and if you have yet to leave a rating or review, please leave me an honest one on iTunes by clicking here. It will help the show and I would truly appreciate it!

Enjoy the session!

QOTP (Question of the Podcast)

Have you experienced large fluctuations in blood sugars due to stress?

For feedback:

• BDP Hotline: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

These podcasts are on iTunes

Direct RSS feed for podcast episodes

.....................................................................

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

BDP 012 | Stress and Diabetes, Flash Mobs, Resources and Awareness is a post from: Blogging Diabetes

I’m going to be completely honest about session 11.  It ALMOST didn’t happen.  I could list out the 50 different things that I’ve been dealing with this past week, but there are no excuses.  I thought it was going to be a quick episode, but it turned out to hit the typical 30 minute mark without much fluff at all.  It’s going to be a tough few days and upcoming weekend as I have a bunch of different things, events, exams and stuff going on.  I hope you enjoy this episode and have a great weekend!

Run time: 30:13

Items Mentioned

• A typical day in the life with Diabetes (with Me)
  
• Fun fact of the podcast about gaining weight
• How to retain the podcast files for future listening
• Exercise Tip as a follow up to session 10 – what worked for me
• NFL Pro Bowl and SuperBowl winner teams up with Joslin to fight diabetes
• Study finds that shorter spans between doctor visits can decrease A1c

QOTP (Question of the Podcast)

How often do you go to your doctor and do you think your A1c would decrease by going more frequent?

For feedback:

• BDP Hotline: 410-774-6079
• tony@bloggingdiabetes.com
• Post a comment below
• iTunes Review

These podcasts are on iTunes

Direct RSS feed for podcast episodes

.....................................................................

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

BDP 011 | Day with Diabetes, Exercise Tips, NFL and Frequency is a post from: Blogging Diabetes