Diabetes Awareness

Making Healthy Food Choices

2006-11-29T17:15:00.000-06:00

Knowing what to eat can be confusing. Everywhere you turn, there is news about what is or isn't good for you. Some basic principles have weathered the fad diets, and have stood the test of time. Here are a few tips on making healthful food choices for you and your entire family.

*Eat lots of vegetables and fruits. Try picking from the rainbow of colors available to maximize variety. Eat non-starchy vegetables such as spinach, carrots, broccoli or green beans with meals.

*Choose whole grain foods over processed grain products. Try brown rice with your stir fry or whole wheat spaghetti with your favorite pasta sauce.
Include dried beans (like kidney or pinto beans) and lentils into your meals. Include fish in your meals 2-3 times a week.

*Choose lean meats like cuts of beef and pork that end in "loin" such as pork loin and sirloin. Remove the skin from chicken and turkey.

*Choose non-fat dairy such as skim milk, non-fat yogurt and non-fat cheese.

*Choose water and calorie-free "diet" drinks instead of regular soda, fruit punch, sweet tea and other sugar-sweetened drinks.

*Choose liquid oils for cooking instead of solid fats that can be high in saturated and trans fats. Remember that fats are high in calories. If you're trying to lose weight, watch your portion sizes of added fats.

*Cut back on high calorie snack foods and desserts like chips, cookies, cakes, and full-fat ice cream.

*Eating too much of even healthful foods can lead to weight gain. Watch your portion sizes

Children with Diabetes

2006-02-05T19:42:00.000-06:00

Age-related Issues

Preschoolers

Preschool-age children with diabetes often have not learned to recognize the symptoms of low blood glucose, or they aren’t able to tell others when they are feeling “low.” So, it’s important that they have frequents blood glucose checks.

Preschoolers are often frightened by fingersticks and insulin injections and may try to avoid or delay getting them. It may help to say: “Yes, I know it hurts” and “You’re being very brave.”

Stickers and stars help encourage a child to have a fingerstick or shot. Use positive reinforcements rather than scolding or threats of punishment.

Young children with diabetes can go through the same fussy eating phases as other children. It’s usually best not to force a fussy child to eat. Have a variety of foods available. If the child rejects one food, offer something else, or offer juice or milk instead.

School-Age Children

School age children want to be like their peers. The child with diabetes may feel different because of having to take insulin, check blook glucose regularly, and follow a meal plan. The best way to handle this will depend on the individual child’s personality.

Some children will check their blood glucose or give themselves an insulin injection for show-and-tell. Older children have presented science projects on diabetes and its care. However, a child who is shy or sensitive about having diabetes may not wish to be singled out in this way. Take cues from the child on how to handle his or her diabetes. Be sure to respect the child’s privacy rights.

Teenagers

For the teenager with diabetes, having to take insulin, check blood glucose, and follow a meal plan is tiresome and can compound the normal difficulties of adolescence. It is typical behavior for a teen with diabetes to ease up on diabetes care and try to act like everyone else.

Sometimes, an adult outside the family with whom a teenager had a good relationship, such as a teacher or coach, can help to provide the teenager with the support he or she needs. Smoking, drinking alcohol, and using illegal drugs all pose special risks for the people with diabetes. Nevertheless, some teens with diabetes will engage in these activities. Presenting the facts in a nonjudgmental way and showing the teenager that you expect him or her to act responsibly can help.

Rise in Aspirin Use Seen Among US Adults

2006-01-30T12:39:00.000-06:00

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - The number of US adults who regularly take aspirin for its heart benefits rose about 20 percent from 1999 to 2003, and the Healthy People 2010 objective of having at least 30 percent of diabetics take aspirin on a regular basis has been met, according to a new report. The main reason people are using the drug is to reduce their risk of heart attack and stroke.

The findings, which appear in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, indicate that 36.2 percent of adults at least 35 years of age used aspirin daily or every other day in 2003. The proportion among those with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes was even higher - 82.8 and 62.6 percent, respectively.

Umed A. Ajani, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, and colleagues estimated rates of aspirin use in 2003 by analyzing data for 67,697 subjects entered in the Behavioral Factor Surveillance System.
A key focus of the study was to investigate aspirin use among diabetics. The American Diabetes Association recommends aspirin as a preventive agent for people with diabetes, who are at risk for or have already experienced a heart attack or stroke. The Healthy People 2010 objective called for a rise in aspirin use among diabetics from 20 percent in the early 1990s to 30 percent.

As noted, overall aspirin use rose by 20 percent from 1999 to 2003. Aspirin use among diabetics and those with CVD increased by 35 and 12 percent, respectively. Moreover, a rise in aspirin use was noted in all adults regardless of age, gender, educational level, general health status, smoking status, and body weight, the investigators point out.

In subjects without diabetes or CVD, aspirin use increased as the number of CVD risk factors, such as high blood pressure, rose. Seventy-four percent of subjects cited cardiovascular reasons for their aspirin intake.
"The implication is that doctors and the media and paid advertising by (aspirin manufacturers) have had a positive impact," Dr. Richard Stein, a cardiologist and a spokesperson for the American Heart Association, said in a statement. "The approximately one-third reduction in heart attacks and fatal heart attacks in patients taking aspirin will help reduce the death and disability from coronary heart disease in the US."

SOURCE: American Journal of Preventive Medicine, January 2005.

Risk Factor to Avoid

2005-12-22T19:48:00.000-06:00

With the holiday season upon us, it is important to address the use of alcohol and your diabetes. One or two drinks a day may have little effect on your blood glucose level. This is true if you have good control of your diabetes, are free of complications and drink the alcohol close to or with a meal. However, alcohol does add extra calories and may increase the blood fat called triglycerides in some people. Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach may also cause low blood glucose several hours after the alcohol is consumed.

If you treat your diabetes and cardiovascular health problems with diet and exercise, low blood glucose when drinking is less likely to happen. Still alcohol can disrupt your meal plan. Work with a dietitian if you want to include a favorite drink into your holiday meal plan.

Have a safe and wonderful holiday season.

Diabetes Myths

2005-12-11T20:04:00.000-06:00

Myth #1: You can catch diabetes from someone else.
No. Although we do not know exactly why some people develop diabetes, we know diabetes is not contagious. It can’t be caught like a cold or flu. There seems to be some genetic link in diabetes, particularly Type-2 diabetes. Lifestyle factors also play a part.

Myth #2: People with diabetes can’t eat sweets or chocolate.
If eaten as part of a healthy meal plan, or combined with exercise, people with diabetes can eat sweets and desserts. They are no more “off limits” to people with diabetes, than they are to people without diabetes.

Myth #3: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes.
No. Diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. However, being overweight does increase your risk for developing Type-2 diabetes. If you have history of diabetes in your family, eating a healthy meal plan and regular exercise are recommended.

Myth #4: People with diabetes are more likely to get colds and other illnesses.
No. You are no more likely to get a cold or another illness if you have diabetes. However, people with diabetes are advised to get flu shots. This is because any infection interferes with your blood glucose management, putting you at risk of high blood glucose levels and, for those with Type-1 diabetes, an increased risk of ketoacidosis.

Myth #5: Fruit is a healthy food. It is ok to eat as much of it as you wish.
Fruit is a healthy food. It contains fiber and lots of vitamins and minerals. Because fruit contains carbohydrate, it needs to be included in your meal plan. Talk to your dietitian about the amount, frequency and types of fruits you should eat.

Diabetes and Gum Disease

2005-11-07T16:55:00.000-06:00

Did you know that people with diabetes are twice as likely to get gum disease? It’s true. Diabetes makes all of the tissues in your body more susceptible to infection, including the tissues in your mouth. That’s because high blood glucose helps bacteria grow. If theses bacteria are left unchecked, they can lead to gum disease.

Plus, according to the U.S. Surgeon General, people with diabetes also have a harder time controlling and getting rid of infections and gum disease. That’s why it is important to visit the dentist if you notice any of these telltale signs of infection:

Gums bleed when brushed (i.e., you see pink in sink).
Gums are red, puffy, or sensitive.
Gums have pulled away from your teeth.
The way teeth fit together when you bite down seems to have changed.
You have persistent bad breath or a lingering bad taste in your mouth.

If you have diabetes, you already have a lot on your mind. Fortunately, with just a little more attention and regular care, you can keep your mouth as healthy as your body.

Healthy Teeth Tips

Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes. Use an antibacterial toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush.

Floss your teeth every day

Visit the dentist every six months

If you smoke, stop. Smoking makes gum problems even worse.

Keep your blood glucose as close to normal as possible.

Staggering Statistics

2005-10-27T11:12:00.000-05:00

Newly released statistics from the Centers for Disease Control andPrevention (CDC) illustrate that diabetes has risen by over 14 percent inthe last two years. The CDC estimates that 20.8 million Americans - 7 percent of the U.S. population have diabetes, up from 18.2 million in 2003. Nearly a third of these Americans are undiagnosed. According to theAmerican Diabetes Association (the Association), the new numbers highlight the growing diabetes epidemic in the United States and reinforce the need for increased research and prevention.

The CDC's report also demonstrates the need for all Americans with diabetes to have access to affordable andadequate health care."This study confirms what we already know: diabetes is one of this country's most prolific and deadly diseases," said Robert A. Rizza, MD,President of the American Diabetes Association. "Diabetes touches all of us in some way, which is why we must continue to work together to find a cure for diabetes and to improve the lives of the nearly 21 million Americans affected by diabetes."

Shop wisely- Understand food labels

2005-09-20T12:59:00.000-05:00

Read the Nutrition Facts label on food containers. This label shows you the amount of carbohydrate, protein and calories in the foods you eat. It can also help you choose foods that are low in sodium, fat and saturated fat.

Note the serving size.
Most of the information on the Nutrition facts label is for 1 serving. The label will tell you the size of that serving and how many servings the package has.

Check the sodium and saturated fat content.
Too much sodium can raise your blood pressure. It’s best to choose foods with less than 400mg of sodium per serving. Choose frozen entrees with less than 800 mg per serving.
Saturated fat can raise your cholesterol level and lead to heart disease. Compare labels and choose foods with less saturated fat.

A Balanced Diet is the key to a healthy Food Plan

2005-09-20T12:54:00.000-05:00

Variety gives you the nutrients you need to stay healthy. These nutrients are:

Carbohydrates-
These produce most of your blood sugar. Starches, fruits and milk products are high in carbohydrates. Vegetables contain some carbohydrates, but less than these other groups.

Fats-
These provide reserve energy for your body.

Protein-
This helps the body build and repair tissue. Meat and meat substitutes are high in protein.

Quit Smoking

2005-07-11T10:52:00.000-05:00

Quitting smoking is good for your diabetes. Quitting smoking is good for your health. When you quit smoking, you lower your blood glucose and blood pressure. You lower you total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (the bad kind), and your triglycerides. When you quit smoking, you raise your HDL cholesterol (the good kind) and your oxygen intake. You even raise your life expectancy!

Quit smoking and you can reduce your risk for heart disease, blood vessel damage, kidney disease, nerve damage, dental disease, and cancer (mouth, throat, lungs, and bladder). You can reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke, miscarriage or stillbirth, limited joint mobility, and colds, bronchitis, and emphysema.

Quit smoking and you can even reduce your risk for insulin resistance (when your body does not respond to insulin). No wonder people try to quit. Here are some helpful hints.

BEFORE YOU QUIT SMOKING
Write down each time you smoke for a week. Write down any event or activity you were doing or about to do. Save the List.

Write down all the reasons you want to quit. Read the list each day of the week before you quit.
Pick a day to quit and write it down. Choose a day with few pressures. That way, stress won’t tempt you to smoke. You may want to do it when you’ve got some time off from work.

Tell others you plan to quit. Let family, friends, and coworkers know. Seek their support. Tell them how they can help you.

Choose a Method of quitting. There are many ways to quit smoking. Not every method works for every person. Your diabetes care team may be able to help you find a method that will work for you. It could be quitting “cold turkey.” It might be using a nicotine patch or chewing gum.

Plan rewards for not smoking. For example, you might play a favorite game one week, and go to a movie the next week.

Why not do what is best for you and your body, Quit Smoking!

You can also purchase Tracy's CD with this form

2005-07-05T20:06:00.000-05:00

You can purchase a copy of Tracy's "Keys to a Cure" CD by printing off this form and sending it in. Clip the image to the left to get a full size picture of the form.

Join Tracy in her search for a cure to diabetes!

Wanting to help raise funds?

2005-07-04T09:06:00.000-05:00

Purchase one of my Music Cd's Today!

"Keys to a Cure" was created to help raise funds for the American Diabetes Association. My father has been a type one diabetic for 38 years now. I want to help find a cure and you can help me, by purchasing a cd today. They are $10 a piece plus $2 for shipping and handling. With your purchase I will include an Autographed Miss Wisconsin 2005 picture!

Purchasing Information:

Checks can be made payable to Tracy Gest and sent to

Tracy Gest

Miss Becky's Dance Studio

5158E. S108th Street

Hales Corners, WI 53130

Not only do I thank you for helping this worthy cause, but the millions who suffer from this disease thank you as well.

Follow Healthy Eating Guidelines

2005-06-16T19:07:00.000-05:00

Healthy eating can lead to healthy results- stable blood sugar, a strong heart, weight control and more. If you already have healthy eating habits, great! Keep it up! If you'll be making changes, don't worry. Developing a meal plan that's healthy and enjoyable takes time.

Follow these general guidelines.

Eat a variety of foods
Maintain a healthy weight
Limit fat in your diet, especially saturated fat
Limit cholesterol
Eat enough starch and fiber
Limit sugar
Limit sodium

Talk to your health-care provider about what is a healthy weight for you. He or she may refer you to a dietitian for more advice.

Get a steady supply of food throughout the day.

Eat 3 regular meals a day (or 5 smaller ones). You may also need a healthy snack between meals and/or at bedtime. Try to eat at about the same time every day.

Be careful with alcohol.

Never drink alcohol on an empty stomach- it can lower your blood sugar level dangerously. Talk to your health-care provider about alcohol. If you take insulin or diabetes pills, you will need to be extra careful with alcohol.

Use a meal plan as a guide.

It is not a strict menu. A good meal plan will teach you how to make good decisions about:

what food you eat
when you eat
how much you eat

Purchase One Today!

2005-06-06T20:39:00.000-05:00

ADA Wristbands Now Available
Show your support for family and friends living with diabetes by giving or wearing an ADA "Support the Cure" wristband. Each wristband features the words "Cure, Care, Commitment" and the American Diabetes Association name. Order them now for yourself, family members and friends. Red wristbands come in packages of 10 and are available in both adult and youth sizes.
Order Today!

Patient-Specific Stem Cells Cloned

2005-06-06T20:34:00.000-05:00

South Korean scientists who cloned the first human embryo to use for research said on Thursday they have used the same technology to create batches of embryonic stem cells from nine patients. Their study fulfills one of the basic promises of using cloning technology in stem cell research -- that a piece of skin could be taken from a patient and used to grow the stem cells.
Learn more>>

Check this out!

2005-06-05T11:31:00.000-05:00

Health Education, Awareness & Research Trust (HEART) Program

A Diabetes Awareness program was established to educate rural villagers in India about diabetes. They give free blood screening tests and teach them necessary skills and information to control their diabetes. Read about this truly inspirational HEART program. To read, in detail, how they have conducted their 3rd Diabetes Awareness and Blood Screening Program click here.

How to Tell if you Have Pre-diabetes

2005-05-23T18:12:00.000-05:00

While diabetes and pre-diabetes occur in people of all ages and races, some groups have a higher risk for developing the disease than others. Diabetes is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders, as well as the aged population. This means they are also at increased risk for developing pre-diabetes.
There are two different tests your doctor can use to determine whether you have pre-diabetes: the fasting plasma glucose test (FPG) or the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). The blood glucose levels measured after these tests determine whether you have a normal metabolism, or whether you have pre-diabetes or diabetes. If your blood glucose level is abnormal following the FPG, you have impaired fasting glucose (IFG); if your blood glucose level is abnormal following the OGTT, you have impaired glucose tolerance (IGT).

The American Diabetes Association Risk Test for Diabetes can help you determine if you are at increased risk for diabetes or pre-diabetes. A high score may indicate that you have pre-diabetes or at risk for pre-diabetes. Take the test and find out for sure.

Start Planning.... Come with us to German Fest!!

2005-05-19T07:47:00.000-05:00

Join us for Big Unit's 5K Run/Walk to German Festbenefiting the American Diabetes Association Friday evening, July 29, 2005

For more information, click here.

Who's at Risk for Diabetes?

2005-05-18T22:59:00.000-05:00

Your risk for diabetes goes up as you get older, gain too much weight, or if you do not stay active. Diabetes is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Risk factors for diabetes include:

Having high blood pressure (at or above 130/80)
Having a family history of diabetes
Having diabetes during pregnancy or having a baby weighing more than nine pounds at birth.

Signs of Diabetes

2005-05-14T09:14:00.000-05:00

frequent urination
increased thirst
extreme tiredness
weight loss (in spite of increased appetite)
blurred vision
slow-healing infections or wounds
pain, numbness or tingling in the feet
stomach pain
vomiting
rapid, shallow breathing
sexual problems (impotence in men, decrease in vaginal fluids in women).

Other signs that may indicate possible diabetes are:

low levels of high-density lipoproteins in the blood
high triglyceride levels.

Symptoms can appear suddenly or over time. And, it's unlikely that anyone would have all of these symptoms. It is possible to have type 2 diabetes with no early symptoms.

Causes of Diabetes

2005-05-14T09:11:00.000-05:00

No one is sure what causes diabetes. But research has shown that the risk of diabetes may be higher for some people. Risk factors include:

a history of diabetes in the family
being overweight
being inactive
being over age 45
being of African, Asian, Hispanic, Native American or Pacific Islander heritage
high blood pressure
exposure to certain viruses that damage the pancreas
a history of gestational diabetes or having delivered a baby weighing over 9 lbs.

Type 2 Diabetes

2005-05-14T09:05:00.000-05:00

The pancreas makes some insulin, but either it is not enough or the cells do not use it correctly.
Some people with type 2 diabetes can control their blood sugar level with proper diet and exercise. Others will need insulin and/or diabetes pills, along with proper diet and exercise.

Type 1 Diabetes

2005-05-14T08:58:00.000-05:00

The pancreas (a gland behind the stomach) makes little or no insulin. Insulin acts like a key to help cells use blood sugar.
People with type 1 diabetes need daily insulin shots- along with proper diet and exercise- to stay healthy.

What is diabetes?

2005-05-14T08:55:00.000-05:00

Diabetes is a condition in which the level of glucose in the blood- called blood sugar- is too high.
Normally, the body gets the energy it needs from blood sugar, which comes from food. Having diabetes means the body is not able to use blood sugar properly. As a result, blood sugar builds up in the blood.

Would you like to purchase my CD?

2005-05-12T19:03:00.000-05:00

It's a great CD with 10 songs performed on my Grand Piano. You'll love the mix of classical and contemporary musical selections. To purchase yours, contact me at missnewberlin@yahoo.com

Welcome!

2005-05-12T18:29:00.000-05:00

Thank you for visiting my new world wide web presence here at http://diabetesawareness.blogspot.com. Come back often for updates on appearances and latest news and discoveries on diabetes and the crusade to a cure.

Enjoy the website and our wonderful resources as we quickly build up a library of important articles and research for you to discover.