"How To" Diabetic

Spring To Life!

2012-02-28T21:31:00.000-08:00

With Christmas putting a hitch on stable blood glucose levels, failed New Year’s resolutions a distant memory and Valentine’s Day festivities all but forgotten, we can begin to look forward to the season of rebirth, growth and purity among all living things. The season I am referencing to is none other than Spring.

Spring can represent the beginning of something new, or perhaps more appropriately - a fresh start. Spring’s allowance of fresh starts coupled with continual advancement and growth is what is needed for change to occur. What most people fail to realize is that the symbolization of Spring not only applies to nature, but also to mind, body and soul as well.

At this point of my post you might be asking the question, “What exactly does the coming of Spring have to do with Diabetes”? My answer, in short, is not a whole lot. The changing of season and symbolic nature of the word “Spring” are merely just convenient coincidences. They do however provide aid in explaining the point of this blog entry which essentially boils down to the notion that diabetic or not, it is never too late for a fresh start (that just happened to rhyme).

To further illustrate that notion, simply type in Diabetes + Epidemic into Google and check out the staggering results. To the average person, these results are known but more often than not, widely ignored - and at what expense? The cold, hard truth is that even though many of us know we are leading unhealthy lifestyles, we continue to do so out of laziness, busyness, and whatever other combination of excuses ending in ‘ness’ we can think of. Even worse is that these hard-broken habits are being passed down from generation to generation. Exercise has become a “chore” and eating healthy has been made nearly impossible thanks to stubborn parents. Despite these obstacles, one must continue to believe that change, growth, and “fresh starts” remain viable options. Furthermore, we must remember that, unlike the season of Spring, humans have the advantage of being able to do all of these things at any given time. Unfortunately, this so-called advantage doesn’t make it any easier to accept the idea of change, and begin rearranging our lives for the better.

So how do we go about beginning this process? Well, one can start by simply replacing “second-helpings” at meal time with a fresh garden salad. Instead of driving to the grocery store, try walking instead – this not only forces people to prioritize their purchases in terms of necessity but can also turn into a decent workout (especially on the way home). Take the kids to the park on the weekend, but don’t just sit idle on the park bench while they burn energy on the playground. Instead, bring a Frisbee, soccer or basketball, rollerblades or whatever your children’s little heart’s desire! Use your imagination in terms of getting the necessary exercise and nutrition you and your family require and I promise you won’t regret it.

Diabetes.. Why Me? Why Anyone?

2011-12-03T16:36:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning in an odd mood - especially considering it's a Saturday. I expected to awaken rested, rejuvenated and relaxed. To my surprise, I felt the complete opposite. Tired and stressed for no apparent reason, I woke up in a peculiar mindset that had me thinking about Diabetes and the question, why me.. why anyone?

I know that people are diagnosed with Diabetes for a variety of reasons. It could be due to a lack of proper nutrition, failure to get an appropriate amount of exercise, obesity, Diabetes running in the family and even during instances of pregnancy. I'm not sure why, but those were not the reasons I was thinking about when I woke up.

Instead, I thought about why I was the only one of my 3 brothers that got diagnosed with Diabetes. My brothers and I grew up eating the same things, doing relatively the same activities and playing the same sports, so why me? Then I thought, perhaps it was just life forcing my family and I to deal with an adverse situation and I was just best suited for the the job (lucky me). Maybe it was necessary for me to learn skills like accountability, proper scheduling and perseverance at such an early age so that I could become the hardworking adult I am today. It makes sense considering the fact that Diabetes changes your life so much, for both good and bad. I often think about what life would be like without Diabetes and whether or not I would be the same person I am today. I like who I have become and if I had a choice to go back and change things, I'm not sure I would. Over the years I've learned so much, had so many great experiences and Diabetes was a part of me the whole way. I'll admit there's been times when it has been a nightmare, but others where it separates you from the pack and makes you stronger than the rest. I realize I'll probably never know the real reason I got Diabetes, but maybe that's okay. After all, I've gotten this far not knowing and I'm still doing just fine.

My Niece, Baiya and I :)

The Walk, Run or Cycle a Mile In Our Shoes Diabetic Awareness Program

2011-11-21T19:13:00.000-08:00

Ever since my last post I’ve been trying to think of a Diabetic Awareness program that is fun, easy and highly effective. Today, I think I may have thought of it! I’d like to formally introduce my new program called the “Walk, Run, or Cycle a Mile in Our Shoes Program”. Designed to be totally manageable on a day-to-day basis, this program involves only 3 steps.

Now, before I get into the steps, I recommend purchasing a pedometer (optional if you are cycling) so that you can track your daily walking or running progress. I highly recommend the Omron HJ-203 Pedometer with Activity Tracker as it’s both affordable, and packed with features for hassle-free tracking of everything you need. Pedometers act as a great tool to help you monitor progress, stay accountable, and to allow you to compare your results with others.

Step 1:
Choose your activity! Whether you’re in your early 20’s, retired, out of shape, or a marathon veteran, chances are you can do this program! It can be as easy as walking to get the groceries, to the mall or to get the mail. It’s as easy as running for 20 minutes before heading off to work. You could even try cycling to work instead of driving. The possibilities truly are endless!

Step 2:
Wear a Diabetic Awareness shirt! Whether it be clothing from another Diabetic event you’ve attended, an article of clothing you recently purchased or even something you have made, wear it when you exercise! It’s by far the best form of advertising and getting the word out because after all, it’s free and it follows you wherever you go!

Step 3:
Get others involved! Take an after dinner stroll with your kids, race your husband around the block, or go for a weekend bike ride! Get into the habit of exercising with your friends and family – you certainly won’t regret the memories you’ll make, as well as the bonds you’ll create along the way!

Whether you, a family member or loved one has Diabetes, or perhaps you just want to get active and help out in the process, your participation in this program will forever be remembered and appreciated by those touched by Diabetes. Please feel free to provide any program feedback you may have and remember – by staying fit, you too can keep others aware.

If you like my Diabetic Awareness program and ideas please continue to help me help others -

“Like” my page on Facebook!

Make Diabetes Awareness A Daily Goal

2011-11-13T14:25:00.000-08:00

Known to many as Diabetes Awareness Month, November plays a crucial role in raising worldwide understanding of the disease. Throughout the course of this month, campaigns promoting Diabetes awareness will be widespread, most often appearing in the form of fundraisers or other special events. One program in particular, The Big Blue Test, has seen tremendous success in raising Diabetes awareness/exercise importance through its encouragement to test one’s blood sugar, exercise, test again and share online. The program has been a hit raising $75,000 in 2010 with hopes of eclipsing that number in 2011, all while showing that participant’s blood sugar levels decreased 15-20% after performing just 14 minutes of exercise. With World Diabetes Day (November 14) just around the corner, it’s a great event to help others and I encourage anyone who can to try!

My spiel on Diabetes Awareness Month and The Big Blue Test represents only a portion of what I’m trying to accomplish with this post. The thought was brought about early this morning when I was reading up on all the different Diabetes Awareness campaigns in existence. When I realized that some parts of the World have a Diabetes Awareness Month, others an Awareness Month and even just an Awareness Day – I thought to myself, with Diabetes being the pandemic that it is, why limit Diabetes Awareness to a particular time frame at all? For instance what’s stopping groundbreaking programs like The Big Blue Test from continuing year-round? I know it’s easier said than done to accomplish such a feat, but we need to conquer these Diabetes facts through effort and support – one month, one week, one day of awareness, is just the start.

How you can help:
Develop and promote a Diabetes Awareness Event
Set a fitness or fundraising goal by joining Team Diabetes
Fundraise through My Diabetes Fundraiser

Love Pasta? Miracle Noodles To The Rescue!

2011-11-03T20:50:00.000-07:00

Do you love pasta but avoid it due to its ridiculously high carbohydrate content? Perhaps you’re trying to lose/maintain your current weight but know most pasta contains too many calories to fit into your meal plan? If that sounds like you – do not fear! There exists an alternative to traditional pasta called Miracle Noodles – a pasta that contains zero net carbohydrates, zero calories, no sugar, fat or starch, is wheat and gluten-free as well as kosher, not to mention delicious! It’s actually even simpler to prepare as it does not have to be cooked, easily absorbs the flavours of any dish and comes in a variety of noodle styles such as angel hair, fettuccini, orzo pasta, and linguini, among others. Perhaps best of all, several medical studies have shown Miracle Noodles to be beneficial to those with Type 2 Diabetes, cholesterol problems, obesity, as well as those suffering from constipation. For more information check out the Miracle Noodle News Report video below.

Check your local grocery store to see if they stock it (Safeway in Canada carries it) or purchase online at http://www.MiracleNoodle.com. Happy carb-free pasta eating!

How To: Avoid A Frightful Diabetic Halloween

2011-10-26T20:53:00.000-07:00

Local shopping malls, costume stores and children are abuzz with Halloween just around the corner. Whether you and your family are planning on trick-or-treating this year or have decided to attend another traditional Halloween event, it’s pretty much a guarantee that one thing in particular will be there – CANDY! For Diabetic children or those newly diagnosed, Halloween is a difficult time of year. The idea of watching siblings, friends and relatives gorge on candy when you know you shouldn’t is a tough pill to swallow – but it doesn’t have to be. Halloween candy and sweets can and should be enjoyed by everyone – including Diabetics. For those wanting to go another route, there are several other options to ensure that an enjoyable Diabetic Halloween takes place.

Approaches to a Diabetic Halloween:

Keep selected candy that you know can be integrated into your child's meal plan. Through carbohydrate counting, exercise and the use of fast-acting insulins, Diabetics of all ages are better able to incorporate Halloween candy into a well-balanced diet.

Below is a list of common candy carbohydrate values for your convenience:
http://www.diabetes.org/assets/pdfs/youth/ada-halloween-candy-list.pdf

Try exchanging a portion of the candy collected while trick-or-treating with something else, for instance a small toy or money. Younger children might enjoy this as they would be receiving something more permanent than candy.

Donate a portion of the collected candy to a children's hospital or your local Diabetes Association. Older children might like the idea that they are helping other kids.

Halloween Candy Alternatives:

Choosing to give away non-candy treats is a great alternative to candy and sweets. It’s not uncommon for families to give out items such as small plastic bugs, slime, false teeth, necklaces, glow-in-dark rubber balls, Halloween-themed pencils, glow sticks or other small toys instead of candy. Many of these items are readily available at local party-supply stores, shopping malls or for purchase online.

I hope you enjoyed reading and that you and your family have a safe, fun-filled Halloween!

Proper Medical Identification and Its Lifesaving Effects

2011-10-23T14:23:00.000-07:00

Proper medical identification can be the difference between life and death in emergency situations. Without proper identification, knowledge of pre-existing medical conditions remains undisclosed to health care providers thus increasing the possibility of misdiagnosis, especially when you are unable to speak for yourself. The following true stories are perfect examples of how carrying proper medical identification (ie. MedicAlert/American Medical ID tags) can save you or your loved one’s life in an emergency.

Jamie Mill’s Story:

Joanne Mills will never forget the relief she felt when she was on the phone with MedicAlert.
When her son Jamie was thirteen years old, he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. With a household of six children to provide for and her husband out of work, Joanne didn't know where the money was going to come from to buy the insulin, needles, and blood monitoring devices that a diabetic child needs to stay healthy.

“As a family we were overwhelmed. We were warned that, while on his way home from school, Jamie might experience low blood sugar, which can progress to a diabetic coma if not treated. Who was going to speak for Jamie if he couldn't speak for himself? I took a chance and called MedicAlert. I’ll never forget their response: ‘don’t worry about the cost, just tell us how big Jamie’s wrist is.’”

Through the MedicAlert Membership Assistance program, Jamie received a free identification and MedicAlert membership – providing him with 24/7 protection and giving Joanne and her family one less worry.

“When I called MedicAlert, there was no hesitation. They knew that as a child with diabetes, Jamie needed MedicAlert and made sure he was protected,” she says. “Having MedicAlert in our lives has given us both a profound sense of freedom as well as peace of mind. I know that when I’m not there to speak for Jamie, MedicAlert is.”

A program like Membership Assistance makes it possible for all Canadians, regardless of their financial situation, to benefit from MedicAlert protection.

Today, the Mills’ financial situation has changed and Jamie no longer needs the support of the Membership Assistance program.

“We don't still need the help, but have never forgotten the kindness. MedicAlert was there for us when we needed it and I am so thankful.”

Fifteen years later, Jamie is still protected by MedicAlert every day and Joanne still has invaluable peace of mind.

Ashley Bryars writes:

I have 12 year old boys with Type 1 diabetes. They are typical, active boys and when they were diagnosed I worried that they would have an incident related to their diabetes and no one would realize they were diabetic since they're healthy looking boys.

When we got the tags they put them on and have never taken them off.

Flash forward more than a year when we were visiting Vail Village in Colorado for the TEVA Mountain Games. We all participated in the Mud Run, a just for fun 1k race, and had had a fabulous day of fun, sun, and outdoors. A few hours later, around 9PM, a reggae concert had just ended and the evening adult party was about to begin at a bar right across the street from a side entrance to our hotel.

In the midst of getting ready to leave the hotel, Zack (one of the twins), exited a side door which locked behind him. We didn't realize he had gone out and he didn't realize he couldn't get back in until it was too late. This was apparently the icing on the cake for Zack, the proverbial straw that broke the camel's back, and he had a diabetic seizure in the streets of Vail Village. It happened between the hotel and a bar; none of us were with him.

Face down on the pavement, he was initially mistaken for a party-goer who had just had a little too much fun. Luckily, the EMTs found his medical ID necklace. We walked up as they were administering glucagon, which they knew to do because it was clearly engraved on his medical ID. The seizure was blamed on altitude (we moved from Louisiana where it is below sea level and Veil is over 8,000 feet), sun, exercise, different food and the stress of moving cross country.

We carefully monitor our son and had no idea this combination of events could have such an impact on him. We were very lucky that he had his medical ID tag. It was really an incredible experience.

Lorien V.’s Story:

I was 19 and it was my first real job. My schedule was from 12-8 in a NYC hair salon working as a stylists' assistant, usually never finishing up before nine o'clock. This one night I had stayed extra to finish sweeping up and folding the towels since the overhead sink cabinets needed restocking. I didn’t get to the subway until around 9:30PM and I settled in for the long ride home. My stop was the last one on the line so I leaned back to relax. Before even crossing from Manhattan into Brooklyn, NY, I had fallen asleep.

About 35 minutes later, my "slumber" was rudely interrupted by EMT's scooping me up off the bench while feverishly trying to get me to tell them my name. Hands were clapping in my face and tapping my cheek. I felt disoriented and though I tried to tell them my name, they seemed not to understand me. One of the techs noticed the long chain around my neck where my medical ID hung and they immediately gave me a tube of Glucagon in the ambulance.

I was about 6 stops away from home, alone on a train that took me through some pretty shady neighbourhoods. I could not speak coherently and nobody on the train knew me. After the incident, my mother told me that I had been speaking backwards which was why those poor techs couldn't understand me.

So, thanks to my medical ID, the EMT's were able to quickly discern that I was not some crazy junkie on a mind-altering chemical and the hospital emergency room was able to contact my parents. I wear my new American Medical ID bracelet every day without fail and would strongly urge all those with medical needs to do the same.

The importance of proper medical identification is undeniable, and the choice of whether or not to wear it in case of an emergency should be obvious. For more information on MedicAlert and American Medical ID tags visit the links below.

http://www.medicalert.ca

http://www.americanmedical-id.com/

How To: A Guide to Healthy Diabetic Foot Care

2011-10-15T13:47:00.000-07:00

Precautionary foot care is perhaps the most overlooked component of Diabetes-related complications. By neglecting to take care of your feet as a Diabetic, you put yourself at a much higher risk for severe foot problems; including the amputation of your lower extremities. To better ensure that you and your feet stay happy and healthy, I’ve compiled a few preventative measures to help.

1. Perform a careful, comprehensive check of your feet.
Have you noticed that your feet have changed shape? Do you ever get a feeling of “pins and needles” in your feet? These are both early signs of Diabetic neuropathy (changes in sensation), indicating that you should have your sensation tested by a professional (or perform a self-test using monofilaments). A lack of sensation greatly increases your risk of injury.

Do your feet ever feel numb? If so, there are a few things you can do to help:
-Purchase socks that do not have the elastic tops and that have their seams in places where chances for blisters are minimized.
-Shake out your shoes before putting them on. Doing so will help remove any dirt and debris that remain on the insole, thus reducing chance of injury.
-Try to limit your smoking as doing so lessens blood flow to your feet.
-Wash and dry your feet daily – especially between your toes. Apply moisturizer/lotion to soften your feet, however avoid application between your toes.
-Avoid using chemical treatments in the removal of corn or warts.

2. Get your feet fitted properly.
This is particularly important if you notice drastic changes in the shape/size of your feet. Since your feet swell during the course of the day, your feet are at their largest during the mid-afternoon – this makes it the best time to have your feet fitted by a professional. Doing so will allow you to purchase shoes that have a lower chance of pinching and rubbing your feet uncomfortably, thus minimizing the chance of foot injury.

3. Take care of your toenails!
Infrequent toenail trimming can be a major cause of foot injury. Trimming toenails straight across will lessen the chance of ingrown toenails forming. Avoid soaking your feet in water! This dries out skin, increasing the chance of cracked skin, especially in the heel area. If your toenails are thick, talk to your care provider about options for cutting your nails without softening them in water first. If you have trouble reaching your feet or have poor eyesight, have a professional foot care provider help you.

By following these simple preventative steps, Diabetics can continue to live a happy, healthy and active lifestyle. Thanks for reading!

Diabetic Intervention - What NOT To Do! - Full Episode Link Below

2011-10-11T21:09:00.000-07:00

I recently came across an Intervention episode on A&E about a Type 1 Diabetic named John C. Viewed by many as a social outcast, John seeks approval from anyone that will accept him. An inability to make friends and fit in has led John to throw caution to the wind in terms of proper Diabetes management, resulting in several Diabetic-related hospitalizations and near-comas. Without the necessary changes to John's attitude and willingness to take care of himself, his parents fear he will continue to self-destruct and dig himself an early grave. To make matters worse, his parents are reluctant to kick him out of the house if he doesn't change his ways. Unfortunately, that means an intervention may be their last and only option to save John.

This Intervention episode provides a perfect example of "what not to do" as a Type 1 Diabetic. I have tried to find a link so that you can watch the episode online (Intervention, Season 6, Episode 76 or 6-04 on DVD) but so far have been unable to locate anything besides the episode preview on the A&E website - that link can be found below. However, if I do find a link or see that it will be airing on T.V. in the future I will be sure to post an update.

**UPDATE**
For your viewing pleasure, the entire episode can be watched using the link below. Enjoy!

Diabetic Intervention - John C.

Episode Preview:

http://www.aetv.com/intervention/episode-guide/

>> Locate Season 6 Next To Video Player
>> Scroll Down and Locate John C (To The Right of Listed Episodes)

How To: A Guide For a Friendlier Diabetic Thanksgiving

2011-10-06T10:30:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving is a special time for friends, family and loved ones to gather and enjoy the company of one another. More often than not, this harvest-based holiday is celebrated with a traditional turkey feast. Thanksgiving dinners, as delicious as they are, tend to be a little less enjoyable from a nutrition-conscious Diabetic perspective. Depending on where the celebration is scheduled to be held, Diabetics may feel inconsiderate when expressing specific nutritional needs to their gracious hosts. To make the situation a little easier, I’ve developed a how-to guide so that Diabetics can hopefully experience what I like to a call a “friendlier Diabetic Thanksgiving”.

I know that it’s often easy to get caught up in all the wonderful sights and smells of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, which is why it’s important to have a game plan going into the day. Over the years, I have found an improvement in my blood sugars later in the day when I work in a 30-minute to an hour block of exercise in the morning prior to a Thanksgiving Day feast. Whether it’s a brisk walk, run or home gym workout, any bit of exercise is better than none. I realize that it’s easier said than done to get the motivation or squeeze exercise in on such an occasion, especially if you’re surrounded by friends and family, but your efforts earlier in the day will certainly pay off later on.

Due to the fact that the majority of Thanksgiving meals are carbohydrate-based, proteins and low starch vegetables should be your go-to nutritional choices of the day. To start, an excellent idea is to have a good-sized portion of green salad to help fill you up before other more tempting options begin to entice your taste buds. If you can’t help but overindulge, turkey is a great choice as long as the fatty skin is removed prior to consumption. Most Diabetics will want to cut down on their mashed potato and stuffing intake, as half-cup portions contain roughly 10 and 30 grams of carbohydrates, respectively. Depending on how they are prepared, sweet potatoes should be considered a no-no. Again, if you cannot help yourself, remove any specialty topping (caramelized, marshmallow, etc.) and certainly minimize your portion. Traditional cranberry sauce is another carbohydrate-filled choice, but there are many low-carb cranberry sauce recipes available online if you so desire. As for dessert, one option would be to bring your own Diabetic-friendly choice such as low sugar/sugar-free pie or ice-cream. In the event that you get caught around pumpkin pie with no way out, eat the pie filling and leave the crust behind to cut down on carbs!

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

The Benefits of Coconut Oil

2011-10-04T09:22:00.000-07:00

As a Diabetic, I know the importance of including good fats in my diet as well as minimizing the bad. That being said, there is one fat in particular that not only doesn’t contribute to diabetes, but it helps regulate blood sugar levels, thus lessening the disease’s effects. The oil I speak of is known as coconut oil. How does it work? Well, coconut oil provides aid in the form of lessening the demand of enzyme production in the pancreas. Helping the pancreas in such a way increases the efficiency of the organ, especially around mealtimes when higher amounts of insulin are needed. As a result, coconut oil has been known to improve the secretion of insulin, enhance insulin action, as well as how sugars in the blood are utilized in the body. Individuals consuming coconut oil have reported increased levels of energy, weight loss, along with more stable blood sugars. In addition, according to The Journal of the Indian Medical Association, Type 2 Diabetes in India has been on the rise ever since people began consuming an increased number of so-called “heart-friendly” polyunsaturated vegetable oils rather than continuing the use of traditional oils such as coconut oil. Perhaps for that reason, coconut oil has been increasingly recommended as a means to prevent Diabetes.

Here are a few suggestions if you’re finding it difficult to include coconut oil in your diet:

- For those of you coffee lovers – mix it in! You’ll have the same great taste of the coffee you love, with a slight coconut aftertaste : )
- For those with no time for coffee, or during the day for that matter – put coconut oil in your breakfast smoothie! How does a strawberry coconut smoothie with high protein, low carbs and low fat sound? Mmmmm...
- Just in time for the colder seasons – try adding it to your favourite soup recipes!

Enjoy!

You Can't Be Diabetic - You're Famous!

2011-10-01T14:42:00.000-07:00

No one in their right mind would classify the task of coping with Diabetes as something that’s easy. Successful Diabetic management requires timely scheduling, a good attitude and the will to learn and improve every day. Unfortunately for many, dealing with Diabetes can be so overwhelming that it restricts them from doing the things they love and living life to the fullest. If that sounds like you – DO NOT HIT THE PANIC BUTTON! You still have time to break out of your funk; just look at these famous Diabetics who never let the “Big D” stand in the way on their journey to the top.

Halle Berry – Actress (Die Another Day, X-Men, Monster’s Ball)

Halle Berry was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in 1989 after she went into a Diabetic coma during the filming of the television show, Living Dolls. After getting her health back on track, Halle grew her stardom by taking on a series of lead roles. One role in particular took place alongside Billy Bob Thornton in the 2001 flick, Monster’s Ball. Berry’s performance landed her an Oscar for Best Actress while making history as the first African American to do so. Today, Halle Berry is one of Hollywood’s highest paid actresses, but still finds time in her busy schedule to volunteer for the Juvenile Diabetes Association.

Ray Kroc – Founder of McDonald's à How Ironic :)

What separated Ray Kroc from the rest of the world was his spirited belief in lifelong self-improvement. He harnessed this notion long before it became a popular topic, but little did he know how much his actions would change the way Americans would eat. Although Kroc faced a number of obstacles over his lifetime, including Diabetes and arthritis, he never let that stand in his way. Instead, after realizing the potential of the first McDonald’s he ever laid eyes on at the age of 52, he teamed up with Mac and Dick McDonald and never looked back. Together they built McDonald’s up into a flourishing corporation whose universal symbol is known world-wide. By the time of his passing at the age of 82, Ray Kroc AKA the “Hamburger King” had amassed a $500 million dollar fortune and was included in the TIME 100 list of the world’s most influential titans of industry.

Elvis Presley – Singer

Ever since his talent was discovered by Sam Phillips, the owner of the legendary Sun Records, Elvis Presley began paving the way in the entertainment industry. Elvis had a unique style that in combination influenced several genres of music including pop, country, gospel, blues and R&B. After signing with RCA 1956, he continued to produce his first number one single and album, also making the box-office hit “Love Me Tender” in that same year. New-age dance moves, good looks and first-class music would eventually sky-rocket his record sales into the billions. Although not much has been documented regarding his battle with Diabetes, Elvis Presley remains in our hearts as one of the most influential artists in history. As a result, “The King of Rock n’ Roll” won’t soon be forgotten.

WARNING DIABETICS - Doctors Aren't Always Right

2011-09-29T06:29:00.000-07:00

I recently came across an article about Diabetes that almost floored me when I read it. It talked about recent studies showing the increased frequency of Type 1 Diabetics acquiring Type 2 Diabetes, as well as Type 2 Diabetics acquiring Type 1 Diabetes – they referred to this occurrence as Type 3 Diabetes, “double Diabetes” and “diabesity” (due to the link between obesity and Diabetes). The blame for these events has been placed primarily on doctors and their incompetence in conveying proper Diabetic treatment information to diagnosed patients. The article explained that Diabetics are being told by doctors that they can eat multiple meals a day, placing little to no emphasis on reducing sugar intake, just as long as they counteract consumed sugars with proper insulin shots/medicine. A more appropriate name was coined in the article by Dr. Ron Rosendale (The Rosendale Diet) based on the cause of so-called “double Diabetes”, instead calling it “D.I.E.” (Doctor Induced Exacerbation).

My initial thoughts after reading this was: ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!???

Perhaps what’s even scarier is the fact that the article continued on to say that many Diabetics are given no warning to the harmful effects undertaken when they take too much insulin. They are told to do so by their doctors thinking it’s perfectly “OK”, but in reality they are becoming both insulin resistant and insulin deficient from doing so.

Even days after reading the article I’m still stunned! Has anyone ever had a doctor that has explained Diabetes information or treatment in this way!? And by “this way”, I mean leaving out crucial information pertinent to any Diabetic.

If you wish to view the entire article you can do so here:
Doctors Cause Diabetics To D.I.E.

Nutritional Tip #5: Keep Your Home a Diabetic-Friendly Environment

2011-09-26T08:06:00.000-07:00

This is a simple nutritional tip whose importance often gets overlooked by many Diabetics – especially those in the early stages of their diagnosis. It begins at the grocery store when you are cruising down the aisles looking to stock up on some good eats. You may already have an idea of what you want before you arrive; however the temptation to get something ~~EVEN BETTER~~ BAD is a thought that frequently occurs – at least in my mind – no matter how good my initial intentions are heading in. If you never have these cravings when you step inside a grocery store, GREAT! You’re already one step ahead of the game! But, for those of you like me, we have to do our best to ignore the foods that satisfy these cravings. Over the years (especially during University) I have learned that a successful nutritional shopping trip is best achieved when you go to the store on a full stomach. If I shop when I’m hungry, EVERYTHING seems to look better than it normally would, which in turn makes me more susceptible to caving in to bad temptations. Instead, if I decide to go to the grocery store after dinner I find that I am less likely to purchase the things I don’t need in my diet since I am already full and satisfied. As a result, this also means that I am more likely to purchase healthier options like fruit, vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds opposed to more unhealthy urges.

For those instances when you simply cannot get out of a grocery store without purchasing a particular type of food, more advanced tactics are needed. These particular techniques come in the form of kitchen organization. For instance, rather than keeping items you can’t resist directly on your kitchen counter, try storing them in a cabinet. It’s humorous but the saying, “out of sight, out of mind”, certainly rings true here. Just as you wouldn’t leave a fully stocked cookie jar on the floor with a 6-year-old running around, you should try your best to keep unhealthy options out of immediate reach. Just like avoiding unhealthy foods at the grocery store spurs the purchases of healthier options, tucking away what I like to call, “treat purchases”, provides the perfect opportunity to increase healthy choice visibility. For example, instead of getting apples, oranges, and bananas and storing them in the refrigerator crisper or pantry, cut them up and make a fruit salad (being sure to store them in a bowl in the fridge). Another option is to remove celery stalks, unpeeled carrots, broccoli and cauliflower from their traditional storage locations, instead cleaning them up and placing them as bite size portions on veggie platters in your refrigerator. This way when you look in the fridge, it’s much more likely that you will choose the readily available fruit salad/veggie platter options rather than something you might regret.

Together, the above mentioned suggestions can help transform your home into a more Diabetic-friendly environment. By tweaking a couple of those unwanted habits, my hope is that you will gain the willpower to avoid those foods you could do without, but also train yourself over time to replace them with healthier ones your body will thank you for.

Nutritional Tip #4: Limit Artificial Sweetener Intake

2011-09-23T10:16:00.000-07:00

During the early stages of my diagnosis with Type 1 Diabetes artificial sweeteners seemed almost miraculous to me. At the time I was 10-years-old and fairly mature for my age, yet it still surprised me that I could consume these low calorie, so-called “free-foods” that contained artificial sweeteners allowing me to satisfy my sweet tooth despite having to control my blood sugar levels. It didn’t really add up at the time, but as any 10-year-old growing up I didn’t lose sleep over it.

Fast-forward to present day where I’m a little older, a lot wiser (I hope) and more in touch with the ins and outs of Diabetes. Like the millions of other Diabetics following a meal plan or those just watching what they eat, the masses are quick to notice and question keywords like aspartame or splenda clearly evident on the packaging of a wide variety of products. Many of my friends and family members have told me to eliminate diet soda and foods containing artificial sweeteners because I’ll get cancer or gain unwanted weight. Depending on which source you look at and what studies are referenced, these side effects may very well be real. That being said, I would be lying if I told you that I haven’t consumed aspartame, splenda or one of the other popular artificial sweeteners lately. The truly sad thing is that even if one tried to avoid them, many would be hard pressed to do so.

Artificial sweeteners are in many cases hundreds to thousands of times sweeter than white sugar. For food manufacturers this translates to using less of an artificial sweetener to attain the same “sweet” taste of regular sugar, not to mention the added bonus of fewer calorie foods. A win-win for big-name companies! As a result, aspartame and other artificial sweeteners have taken a stronghold on many products such as gum, baked goods, soda, juices, jellies, ice cream – the list goes on.

As the number of products containing artificial sweeteners increases so do the number of questions raised about how they affect the human body. After a short Google search, many of the articles that came up linked artificial sweeteners to weight gain and cancer. However, several others showed no link to weight gain and unconfirmed links to cancer. Based on these findings and on FDA regulations, we are in one way or another forced to believe that artificial sweeteners – in moderation – are “generally safe.” The unfortunate truth is that we simply do not know enough about artificial sweeteners to eliminate them from the foods we love. Instead, food manufacturers throw caution to the wind and continue their usage of chemical-filled sweeteners. As a result, artificial sweeteners have become highly unavoidable ingredients that require watchful eyes to limit their intake. Diabetics and weight-watchers know all too well - as it is with a lot of things - that less is more. For that reason I have gathered a few suggestions to aid in the struggle against artificial sweeteners.

Sensible Suggestions:

- Become familiar with the artificial sweeteners you should steer clear of no matter what, compared to those that are deemed “OK” in moderation
- Read the labels of the food products you buy – a general guideline is to look for ingredients that you cannot pronounce – chances are these ingredients are not food, but chemicals
- Be wary of “diet” and “calorie-free” foods
- Limit beverages, candy, jellies and other foods containing aspartame and splenda – two of the most popular artificial sweeteners

The Importance of Exercise

2011-09-20T23:34:00.000-07:00

Exercise ranks as the second most important component (next to nutrition) towards achieving effective Diabetes management. Studies show that by excluding exercise from your daily routine, those without Diabetes are much more likely to develop it, while Diabetics are more likely to have inadequate Ha1c levels and remain in good control. To help curb the effects of a sedentary lifestyle I've provided 3 essential exercise variables to consider when planning future workouts.
1) Frequency
Scheduling time in your day to exercise is a vital component towards achieving and maintaining good overall health. Getting regular daily activity is associated with more stable blood sugars and the reversal of insulin resistance while acting as an effective preventative measure towards the development of Diabetes. In fact, individuals that reduce their activity levels for even just a few days can unintentionally cause changes in their bodies linked to Diabetes.

2) Intensity
Making a habit of incorporating more intense workouts into your fitness plan is a great way to conquer the "Big D" - depending on your fitness level and age of course. If you are willing and able to raise the intensity of a few of your workouts during any given week you will not only reap significant health benefits, but you will be accomplishing more in less time allowing you to enjoy the finer things in life!

3) Duration
Many people assume that workout regimes need to be lengthy and time-consuming. Depending on your fitness level and desired goals this may be true; however life tends to get in the way making lengthy workouts for the majority of people next to impossible. For many, half an hour is all that is needed to get their heart rate elevated, burn some calories and begin changing their life in an exciting way. I've broken down a sample workout that satisfies the variables mentioned above. Hopefully it provides you with a little insight when planning your next exercise routine.

Sample Workout
1) Warm up with a stationary bike, elliptical machine, treadmill or by jogging (depending on preference and availability) for 5 minutes.

2) Choose exercises that you are able to do continuously for 30 seconds and that can be completed as hard and as fast as possible.* It is important to perform these exercises at a rate that has you feeling as if you could not complete one more repetition after the allotted 30 seconds.

3) Allow yourself to recover by exercising at a reduced intensity for 90 seconds.

4) Repeat both the high intensity phase (Step 2) and reduced intensity phase (Step 3) 7 times to complete this workout.**

*Be careful not to exert yourself too heavily if you are just getting back into the swing of things or starting an exercise program for the first time. Your body will adapt over time to more strenuous workouts, but it’s important not to go “too hard, too fast” so that you can prevent injury. Depending on your fitness level for example, try walking instead of running/sprinting. After all, exercising and fitness levels are as individual and unique as Diabetes itself.

**A well-rounded workout should consist of a mixture of strength-training, stretching and core exercises. Before attempting the above mentioned program, please consult your physician to see if this type of workout is right for you.

Really? You're Low!?

2011-09-17T15:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday began like most of my days lately. The sun came up, the birds were chirping and thankfully, nothing too stressful was on the agenda. Everything about the day seemed normal. After work, my girlfriend and I had dinner before opting to unwind with the help of our trusty satellite TV. Ironically, we started watching the Food Network and after about an hour I began to perspire and feel a little bit on edge. I had felt these symptoms before and it wasn’t long before I realized that I must have a low blood sugar. Like usual, I grabbed my blood glucose meter and tested to see how low I was before deciding what would be needed to correct it. To my surprise, my Bayer Contour meter read 1.7 mmol/l (30.9 mg/dl)! As you can imagine I was absolutely stunned - partly due to the fact that it was the lowest blood sugar reading I’ve ever had, but also because at around that point many Diabetics lose consciousness. I on the other hand was still functioning (albeit surprisingly) like a normal person, despite feeling typical symptoms of a low blood sugar. After correcting the low and making sure my blood sugar had stabilized, I asked my girlfriend if anything seemed different about this particular low compared to others in the past. Again, I was shocked when she told me that I seemed pretty normal to her, and that it was lucky I felt it because she would have never known (until it was too late).

I guess the silly cliché I’m trying get at is that things aren’t always as they appear. Until last night, I had yet to realize how true this saying really is for Diabetics and how it can affect their loved ones. Every person’s experience as a Diabetic is unique to the individual, so it’s up to that individual to take care of him/herself as best they can. Otherwise, normal can turn to life-threatening in the blink of an eye.

How To: Ensure That Your Diabetic Child Gets The Most Out of An Important Childhood Past Time

2011-09-14T19:31:00.000-07:00

September may seem like an odd time to post about camping – but please forgive me – I’ve still got summer on my mind and besides, this may even help you plan for next camping season :)

The summer of 1998 was one I’ll never forget. It was the summer that I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and it was easily one of the most difficult learning experiences of my life. My parents, siblings and I knew relatively little about the disease – which really meant that they would need to be extremely cautious with me, OR ELSE! Having five sets of very watchful eyes on me for an entire summer wasn’t what I would call enjoyable by any stretch of the imagination, and now that I think about it, it probably wasn’t that pleasant for them either considering my parents sent me to a week-long Diabetic camp the following summer!

My parents decided that the best Diabetic camp for me to attend would be one located in Gibsons, British Columbia, called Camp Kakhamela. It’s a summer camp designed specifically for Type 1 Diabetics (age 7-16) that emphasizes Diabetic self-management in a safe, fun environment. Campers can take part in a variety of different activities – when I attended I particularly enjoyed an overnight hiking and camping trip, kayaking and time spent doing arts and crafts. Although I was reluctant to attend the camp in the beginning because of my childhood shyness, I quickly adapted and after only one week I didn’t want to leave. It gave me the chance to break out of my shell, to try new things and to talk to other kids my age about how they cope with Diabetes. This camp not only changed my life with the friends and lifelong memories it created; it also provided proof that Diabetics can live fulfilling and unsheltered lives along with the rest of society.

For that reason, if you've ever questioned how you can improve your Diabetic child's life - whether it be through the enhancement of their coping and management skills, their willingness to strive for success and give it their all - then having them attend a Diabetic camp could be the answer you're looking for. If it changed my life for the better, there's no reason why it couldn't do the same for your child.

I’ve included a couple of links below for any parents/grandparents looking to put their Diabetic children/grandchildren into summer camps. If you are thinking of doing so, now is the perfect time to start planning since many of these camps have gained substantial popularity and may even have wait-lists.

Camp Kakhamela – Gibsons, British Columbia, Canada
http://www.diabetes.ca/get-involved/helping-you/camps/british-columbia/kakhamela/

A Great List of Diabetic Camps in Canada, the United States and Latin America
http://www.childrenwithdiabetes.com/camps/

Nutritional Tip #3: Regulate Your Eating Habits

2011-09-11T22:22:00.000-07:00

Establishing a healthy, balanced diet is one of the key factors for achieving successful Diabetes management. In fact, just doing that alone would put a smile on the face of any Diabetic’s dietitian. However, that smile certainly wouldn’t last long if you revealed that you have irregular eating habits because for Diabetics, when you eat is just as important as what you eat. By establishing a regular meal schedule that fits your Diabetic lifestyle you will be better able to manage not only your blood glucose levels, but your weight as well.

Sensible Suggestions:
When designing your meal schedule keep the following in mind:
EAT BREAKFAST!
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and ironically, the one most commonly missed. Eating a nutritious breakfast daily will provide you with energy while boosting your metabolism and steadying blood sugar levels.
Regulate Your Caloric Intake
Try your best to take in the same amount of calories each day as caloric irregularities impact chances for blood sugar regularity.
Small Meals, Regular Times
Try planning your meal schedule to have three small meals and three snacks daily. This may lessen the likelihood of becoming overly hungry throughout the day while slimming your chances of overeating at regular meal times.
Don’t Fall For Mind Tricks
If you feel hungry after you’ve eaten, your brain might just be tricking you! It takes a while for your brain to register that you are in fact full, so before you go for that next helping of your mama’s famous spaghetti, wait 20 minutes. This will give your mind enough time to register whether or not you’re still hungry.

Nutritional Tip #2: Make Water Your Best Friend

2011-09-07T20:38:00.000-07:00

Since humans are made up of approximately 70% water, it should come as no surprise that replenishing lost water is as important (if not more important) as eating properly. Dehydration results when the void for water is not filled, in turn causing the body’s cells to stop functioning properly. Exercise and high body temperatures are two main causes of dehydration. However, in Diabetics water can also be removed from cells during times when they experience high blood glucose levels. The removal of this water causes extreme thirst and frequent urination – symptoms that also appear in the initial stages of Diabetes. Since water plays a vital role in the breakdown of sugar, Diabetics can help stabilize their blood sugars by regularly replenishing their water requirements. Drinking water also plays a huge part in weight management/loss – so to all those looking to shed a few extra pounds, DRINK UP!

Sensible Suggestions:
When planning to exercise:
- drink one to two cups (8 to 16 ounces) of water, one to two hours prior to exercise to ensure proper hydration
- always bring a bottle of water to your workouts
- consume between a half cup and a cup (4 to 8 ounces) of water every 20 minutes during exercise
Daily:
- drink at least 8 glasses of water per day **
**A general guideline is to drink 1 ounce of water for every 2 pounds of weight**

Nutritional Tip #1: Eat a Diet of Balanced Carbohydrates

2011-09-05T21:33:00.000-07:00

As a Diabetic one might assume (or perhaps even been told) that they need to eliminate a large majority of carbohydrates that may have been a part of their diet in the past. Depending on the individual and their previous nutritional choices this may or may not be entirely true, however in any case it is important to incorporate a balance of carbohydrates into one's diet plan rather than to simply avoid them altogether.

Carbohydrates can be broken up into two different groups: Simple Carbohydrates, Complex Carbohydrates. The human body breaks down these carbohydrates into glucose, also known as blood sugar, which your body requires to function properly.
Fibre also deserves mention as it is an important nutritional component for better Diabetes management.

Simple Carbohydrates include many of things that the majority of Diabetics miss most. These carbohydrates consist of foods that are both processed and refined, as well as those containing simple sugars with little to no nutritional value. Some types of fruits and vegetables are also considered to be simple carbohydrates, offering nutritional value such as vitamins and minerals when consumed in their natural state.
Examples of Simple Carbohydrates: cake, soda, chips, white rice, fruit juice and packaged cereals

Complex Carbohydrates consist of whole grain foods, such as rolled oats and whole grain bread, as well as vegetables that are rich in starch, such as legumes. Complex Carbohydrates are slow-release carbohydrates meaning your body will burn them off slower, keeping you satisfied for longer, all while helping you to maintain a stable blood sugar level.
Examples of Complex Carbohydrates: oat bran cereal, potatoes, lentils, kidney beans and spinach.

Fibre is found in foods left in their natural state. These foods consist of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and beans. Fibre has three main benefits to Diabetics:
1) Plays a role in weight management as fibre makes you feel more satisfied
2) Helps lower the risk of heart disease
3) Improves blood sugar control

Sensible Suggestions:
When planning out a meal try the following things:
- make vegetables the main component of your meal
- choose whole grained foods over white and processed foods
- eat proteins that contain a little fat with carbohydrates to help maintain stable blood glucose levels
- do your best to reduce soda, candy and desert consumption as they will only spike blood sugar levels

50 Diabetes Myths That Can Ruin Your Life - Book Review

2011-09-02T21:16:00.000-07:00

I recently came across a great book about Diabetes that is sure to benefit both those "in the know" about Diabetes as well as the many who are misinformed. Titled "50 Diabetes Myths That Can Ruin Your Life: And the 50 Diabetes Truths That Can Save It", this book outlines a variety of myths and misperceptions that surround Diabetes while providing insight that can help Diabetics improve their overall management. Newly diagnosed Diabetics can expect to gain an abundance of information while easing worries about super strict meal plans, intensely painful insulin shots and the consumption of alcohol. Experienced Diabetics can also enhance their knowledge base through relevant "Tip to Make You Tops" boxes that could prove to be the difference between "good" and "great" Diabetic control. Parents and siblings can grasp the all important concepts of high and low blood glucose levels and hemoglobin A1cs while providing much needed support to in family Diabetics. This book truly is a must have for Diabetics and information-seekers alike!

New Drug Developed For Type 1 Diabetes

2011-08-30T00:59:00.000-07:00

DiaPep277 - “There is evidence to suggest that using the drug over a period of time, maybe a couple of years, will allow the pancreas to recover enough to make more insulin. In that situation the patient could stop injecting insulin.”

Read the full article here:
http://www.thehindu.com/health/medicine-and-research/article2406444.ece

How To: Cross the Canada/US Border as a Type 1 Diabetic

2011-08-24T22:30:00.000-07:00

Crossing the Canada/United States border can be a stressful trek under the most normal circumstances. Throwing Diabetes, and in particular a component like insulin, into the mix certainly doesn't make life any easier. For that reason I've decided to create this simple border crossing guide for Type 1 Diabetics. Enjoy!

Step 1:
Call the border crossing you expect to cross AHEAD of time. Both Canada and the United States have an infinite number of sporadically changing policies and regulations that you don't want to learn the hard way. A border crossing official should be able to tell you the most updated rules and regulations, as well as answer any other questions you may have regarding your travel across the border.

Step 2:
Be sure to bring insulin and needle tips in their original packaging, including the prescription it came with. Doing so will allow border crossing guards to easily see that the insulin you are carrying is in fact yours. You obviously know your insulin belongs to you, but it's your job to provide the appropriate documentation so that border patrol knows too.

Step 3:
Wear Diabetic identification. I should hope that the majority of Diabetics already do wear proper ID, but either way it would definitely help to be wearing it in the event that you were seriously questioned about carrying insulin across the border. It certainly doesn't hurt wearing your Diabetic ID because who knows, one day it could even save your life.

Step 4:
The last and arguably most important step is to make sure your insulin remains cold over the course of the trip. Put it in a travel cooler or insulated thermos to protect it from extreme temperatures. If insulin is subject to excessive heat (ie. sitting in a hot car, on the dash with the heat on, etc.), then there is a chance that it could lose its ability to work effectively. After all, better to be safe than sorry!

Bayer Blood Glucose Meter Review

2011-08-22T00:04:00.000-07:00

I recently purchased the Bayer Contour Blood Glucose Meter as I heard it sported one of the simplest interfaces with the most features for its value. After using it for the past month or so I would have to agree that it has definitely lives up to its hype. The Bayer Contour offers two modes of specialized operation right out of the box. The first mode is designed for the most standard Diabetic user with its simple “insert test strip and test” interface, No-Coding technology, speedy five second test time and tiny 0.6 micro-litre sample size, as well the ability to upload your results to your computer using Bayer’s Diabetes Management Software for further analysis of blood glucose trends. The second mode offers of the great testing features of the first level, but also includes a variety of customizable features such as pre- and post meal markers, option for post-meal reminders, seven, fourteen, and thirty-day averages, as well as personal HI and LOW settings.

Pros:
+ Simple and efficient no-hassle testing
+ Choice between basic and advanced monitoring of blood glucose levels
+ The software is very intuitive and has proven to increase understanding of glucose levels, trends, and better management of its users’ HbA1c
+ Relatively inexpensive testing strips, especially if purchased off Amazon
+ Great value!

Cons:
- Computer cable for uploading results not included with purchase of the Bayer Contour Blood Glucose Meter
- Uploading Software not included with purchase of the Bayer Contour Blood Glucose Meter (downloadable via Internet and available through Bayer website)

The Verdict (4/5):
A simple, fast, no-hassle meter with an abundance of features and choice of modes makes the Bayer Contour Blood Glucose Meter one of the premium meters on the market. If simple blood glucose testing appeals to you as much as it does to me, you will love it too!

For More Information Click Here!