Diabetes is a condition that requires constant attention, and one of the most common questions is where to put insulin pump sites, and where to inject to get the best insulin absorption in the body, while also considering where to put a continuous glucose monitor (CGM).
While there isn’t a ‘best’ answer for everyone, here’s a few options for you to consider:
Abdomen
The abdomen is a common site for insulin injections that many people with diabetes choose. It is easy to access and often less painful than other sites due to protection by fat, greater surface area, and less muscle. However, it is essential to recognize that putting in an insulin pump site or a CGM can be different. While insulin pump sites have a cannula that can create scar tissue, a CGM will not leave scar tissue because there is no liquid going through it. The abdomen has more real estate than most people think. It is possible to alternate sides and work up and down, making six sites...
Living with diabetes is not an easy feat, and one of the most challenging aspects of it is dealing with low blood sugar. It can be frustrating and dangerous, especially when it strikes in the middle of the night.
Low blood sugar or hypoglycemia as when the concentration of sugar in the bloodstream falls below the amount that the body needs to optimally run. Typically, hypoglycemia is classified when blood sugar levels are under 70 mg/dL, and moderate to severe hypoglycemia can occur when levels are under 55 mg/dL. Symptoms of low blood sugar can include sweating, feeling starving like you’re gonna eat everything, shaky, confusion, and anxiety.
Many common snacks are regarded as junk food - however, in some situations, those snacks are the BEST for treating low blood sugars. Lets go through some foods that are good for keeping your blood sugar levels under control.
Candy corn
While some people may not like the taste of candy corn, its high sugar and corn...
If you’re a chocolate lover, it’s a pretty safe bet that you are also a fan of the brownie. But if you’re trying to manage your blood sugar levels, you’ve probably been wary of indulging.
As a person living with diabetes, it can be challenging to indulge in your favorite desserts without worrying about the impact on your blood sugar levels. However, there are ways to enjoy sweet treats like the triple-decker brownie without compromising your health.
The triple-decker brownie is a three-layered dessert that consists of a brownie, cookie dough, and a cookie. Sounds kind of crazy, right? Like something you wouldn't normally see a person with diabetes eating? Well, periodically, it is fine to indulge. Now, onto the fun: how to consider dosing for it and assessing the food.
Firstly, the bottom layer of the brownie, which is the largest layer, assuming a standard serving size, which can vary from 2-4 ounces, the bottom layer of the brownie may contain around...
Pancakes are a favorite when it comes to breakfast foods, and I know you are probably wondering, ‘can diabetics eat pancakes?’
Well, I have good news for you! Yes! You don’t have to give up your favorite breakfast just because you got diagnosed with diabetes. If you're living with diabetes, you know that managing your blood sugar can be a daily challenge. And if you love food, that challenge can feel even greater. But that doesn't mean you have to give up delicious food. In fact, with a little planning and knowledge, you can enjoy just about any food, even giant pancakes.
Here are some tips on how to eat your favorite pancake without sending your blood sugar through the roof.
1. Figure out the carb count.
After all, as someone with diabetes, you're probably already familiar with the importance of counting carbs and dosing insulin accordingly. For example, an enormous blueberry pancake is estimated to be equivalent to about four regular...
Are you ready for some delicious dim sum?
If you're living with diabetes, eating out can be a daunting task, but don't let that stop you from enjoying amazing food like this. With a few simple tips, you can confidently navigate a meal like dim sum and keep your blood sugars under control.
First and foremost, be mindful of the little plates.
With so many options, it's easy to lose track of what you've eaten and when. To avoid forgetting insulin, remember to dose every time you have a different course. This will help you stay on top of your blood sugars and avoid any unpleasant spikes.
Pay attention to the fat and protein in your food.
When it comes to Chinese cuisine, dishes that are high in fat and protein, like meat and seafood dishes, can be particularly flavorful and satisfying. It's also important to be mindful of the carbohydrate content of your meal, as carbohydrates can have a significant impact on blood sugar levels. When consuming a meal that contains...
There’s a LOT of things that suck when it comes to diabetes... and one of them is getting HIGH BLOOD SUGARS!
High blood sugar can make you feel terrible, zap your energy, and leave you feeling like you can't do anything. But there is a way to break through this feeling and learn how to not let it bother you anymore.
Let me share with you a technique that can change your life when it comes to dealing with high blood sugar.
When your blood sugar is high, it can feel like you're on a physical and emotional roller coaster, and it's not a fun ride. But there is a way to get off that roller coaster and start feeling better.
We call it the ARM technique, which stands for acknowledge, respond, move on.
Let’s break down each letter of the acronym.
First, ACKNOWLEDGE your blood sugar level. Don't panic or get upset if it's not where you want it to be. Just accept it for what it is and move on to the next step.
Next, RESPOND to your blood sugar level. Figure...
Have you ever gone to a restaurant, indulged in a massive meal, and ended up with high blood sugar hours later?
One of the most common battles for someone living with diabetes, as you don’t have full control over what’s available at that meal….
Yet, this doesn’t mean that all is lost. There are a few helpful tips and tricks you can keep in mind when eating out to help keep you healthy and also allow you to enjoy a regular, stress-free social life.
First things first, DON'T PANIC.
It's normal to feel overwhelmed when dining out with diabetes. With some planning and preparation, you can still enjoy your favorite restaurant meals without compromising your blood sugar levels. Let's break it down together.
Start by identifying the carb sources on your plate. Take a look at the dish and try to estimate the amount of carbs you're about to consume. For example, you might be eyeing a Lobster Mac and Cheese. This dish is a carb-heavy option, but it doesn't mean...
There are VERY few things on this planet as frustrating as finding yourself feeling shaky, feeling terrible, and collapsed in a chair in the middle of your workout.
Why are you here?
Because you live with diabetes and your blood sugar is low.
Low blood sugar is the sworn enemy of any power walk, CrossFit workout, yoga class, bike ride, or even half-marathon.
O, let's dive into three ways to prevent your blood sugars from going low during a workout.
#1 - Consider the type of workout and the duration of that workout.
Different types of exercise can have different effects on blood sugar levels. Strength-based activities, such as weightlifting, can cause blood sugar levels to remain stable or even increase slightly. On the other hand, cardio-based activities, such as running or biking, can cause blood sugar levels to decrease. Always remember that the duration of the exercise can play a role in blood sugar levels. The longer the exercise session, especially if it's...
There are so many dishes that people with diabetes often find themselves thinking they can’t have, and French toast is definitely one of them.
Some may look at this towering breakfast masterpiece and think, "no way, I have diabetes, I can't eat this, my blood sugar will skyrocket."
But fear not, my friends: with a little bit of planning and attention, you can absolutely enjoy this beauty without sacrificing your blood sugar control.
Let's talk about how to navigate the potential blood sugar roller coaster that comes with indulging in such a delicious treat.
First things first, make sure you pre-bolus before diving in. Taking insulin before you eat, can help to prevent blood sugar spikes after a meal. The timing and amount of insulin you take will depend on factors such as the amount of carbohydrates in the meal, your current blood sugar level, and your individual insulin sensitivity.
Now, let's break down this dish into more manageable parts for carb...
Are you someone with diabetes who loves hiking and outdoor activities, but often finds it daunting to keep your blood sugar levels in check during such events?
Walking away from civilization and seemingly "off the grid" can be unsettling for people with diabetes. It's terrifying to rely on survival with only the items on your back, and carrying your pancreas adds another layer of uncertainty.
Maybe it’s the big reason why you might be hesitant to venture outside and away from home without the conveniences of low-blood sugar snacks, water, or medical support nearby.
These tips will inspire you to put on your hiking boots and reconnect with nature!
A pre-hike meal with a balance of carbs, fat, and protein can help provide sustained energy throughout the hike. In case of low blood sugar, bring low-calorie snacks such as Skittles, candy corn, and graham crackers.
Additionally, having only a small amount of active insulin before beginning the hike can help prevent low blood sugar.
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