DIABETES TIPS

  1. I recommend a Medic ID. Although it is optional, consider the fact that, if your taking insulin, and for what ever reason become unconscious, this is one of the first things a EMT will look for. Also consider the fact that, you may or may not be in a life threatening situation at that point, you don’t want to make it harder for medical personnel if you can’t speak for yourself. Many people make the big mistake of assuming that, because they’ve never been hypoglycemic, that it will never happen. Remember, it’s not about broadcasting your business, it’s about making things easier should something happen (your not a fortune teller).
  2. Always have extra meds in your desk draw (at work). Divide your meds so that (god forbid) you loose them, you have some at home for emergency. If you use insulin, many of us usually wind up with extra insulin, purchase an electric insulin cooler and put the extras in it,  so that you can have pens on the job.
  3. All type diabetics should have glucose tablets on hand,  they are fast acting. Unfortunately, if you experience chronic hypoglycemia, it can get expensive, but it is worth it. You don’t have to worry about food spoilage, sticky candy rapping, containers busting, or glass breaking. Many diabetics don’t like the taste of of glucose tabs, however, the purpose is not to eat something delicious, it’s to increase your sugar to safe levels. Once you’ve got your sugar at a reasonable level, it is a good idea to have some kind of protein such as peanuts. This will often prevent another sudden low (depending on how much insulin/how little you’ve eaten). Another alternative I recommend are small bottles of baby food, it’s fast and virtually no cholesterol or high sodium content.
  4. A diabetic should always have a toothbrush on hand, and make an attempt to brush after as many of your meals as possible, especially after consuming any sweets (that includes glucose tablets in my opinion). Diabetics are at much higher risk of gum disease. Also high sugary foods that get stuck in the teeth can be painful for diabetics, especially if you have cavities along with uncontrolled glucose levels.
  5. Try to obtain an extra glucose meter, even if your not using insulin. I especially recommend it, if your starting a gym regimen, some exercises utilizes more glucose than others. Remember that even if your not using insulin, your meds are still in your blood stream, continuing to help with glucose assimilation and usage, it is still possible to become too low, and not be aware of it..
  6. Stash at least 3 dollars away (separate), in your purse,  wallet, or glove compartment in your car. Why? In case you have to buy a quick emergency sweet, and or make a call to your doctor.
  7. Always have a cellphone handy, and an extra car charge in the event of an emergency.
  8. Always look for new ways to improve your health. It is so easy for us diabetics to get stuck, with the same routines over and over again. Routines can get very boring, why limit yourself to a small window of diabetes care, when you have literally millions of options? Talk to your doctor, and utilize the resources I’ve provided on this blog.
  9. Any changes or additional supplements you would like to include in your diabetes care, should always be discuss with your physicians first. Also, if you see more than one doctor (as with so many of us), make sure that ALL your doctor’s are aware of the medications your taking. This can reduce the chances of experiencing drug interactions.
  10. If you ingest any new tea’s, start with a very small amount first. Some herbal tea’s have medicinal effects; they can interact with meds, or cause unpredictable effects on your blood sugars. Doctors are not always aware of herbal/drug interactions (even if they say it’s ok), butter play it safe and use small amounts and remember to check your sugar at least 2 hours after consumption.

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