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Optimal Placement for Continuous Glucose Monitors: Lean Tissue vs. Body Fat

Managing diabetes effectively often requires the strategic placement of both insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs).

For many people with diabetes, the traditional approach is to place insulin pump infusion sites in subcutaneous tissue, or body fat. However, an alternative strategy—using leaner areas of the body for CGM placement—can offer several benefits and might be worth considering.

Understanding the Differences

To appreciate why different placement strategies might be effective, it’s crucial to understand the roles of insulin pumps and CGMs. Insulin pumps deliver insulin continuously into the body through subcutaneous tissue. This tissue type is necessary because it helps to absorb the insulin gradually and reduces the risk of issues such as scar tissue formation. On the other hand, CGMs measure glucose levels by analyzing interstitial fluid, which is the fluid found between cells. Unlike insulin pumps, CGMs do not deliver any substance into the...

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Why a Diabetes Dietitian is Essential for Managing Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

When it comes to managing diabetes, whether it’s type 1 or type 2, not all advice is created equal.

Imagine this scenario: you’ve broken your ankle, and you have to choose between two options for treatment. One is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with years of experience, and the other is someone who learned to fix broken ankles over a weekend seminar. Who would you trust to repair your ankle? The choice seems obvious, right?

This analogy perfectly illustrates why consulting a professional diabetes dietitian is crucial. Just because someone has personal experience with diabetes doesn’t automatically make them an expert in diabetes management for others. Sharing your personal success with blood sugar management is great, but it doesn’t replace the need for professional guidance.

 

Why Professional Guidance Matters

Managing diabetes involves more than just following a generic diet plan or using tips you find online. Each person’s experience with...

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Understanding Blood Sugar Spikes: A Guide for People with Diabetes

Living with diabetes often involves navigating the challenges of managing your blood sugar levels effectively.

One common concern is experiencing significant spikes in blood sugar after meals. If you find that your blood sugar always seems to rise dramatically whenever you eat, you’re not alone. Let’s dive into why this happens and what you can do about it.

Why Do Blood Sugar Spikes Occur?

When you have diabetes, your body struggles to regulate blood sugar levels due to either insufficient insulin production or insulin resistance. This struggle means that any food you eat can lead to a rise in blood sugar levels. However, not all spikes are created equal, and understanding the factors at play can help you manage them better.

  1. Type of Food: The glycemic index (GI) of the foods you eat plays a significant role in how your blood sugar levels respond. Foods high on the glycemic index, such as sugary treats and white bread, cause a rapid increase in blood sugar. In contrast,...
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4 Essential Grocery Finds for Managing Diabetes: Tips from a Registered Dietitian

Navigating a diabetes-friendly diet, whether managing type 1 or type 2 diabetes, can be a bit challenging.

The key to success often lies in making smart, informed food choices. Here are four fantastic grocery finds recommended by a registered dietitian that can help stabilize blood sugar levels and add variety to your meals.

1. Moon Cheese: A Low-Carb, Protein-Packed Snack

For those living with diabetes, finding a snack that aligns with dietary needs and satisfies cravings can be a real game changer. Moon Cheese is a top-notch choice. Each serving packs 11 grams of protein and contains just 2 grams of carbs. This protein-rich snack not only helps keep hunger at bay but also supports muscle health, which is crucial for overall well-being. Additionally, Moon Cheese is a good source of calcium, promoting strong bones. Its portability and long shelf life make it an excellent on-the-go snack. Whether dealing with type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes, Moon Cheese provides a tasty and...

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Essential Travel Tips for Managing Diabetes: What to Always Pack

Traveling with diabetes, whether Type 1 or Type 2, can pose unique challenges.

Proper preparation is crucial to ensure that blood sugar levels remain stable and diabetes management is effective throughout the journey. Here are three essential items that anyone with diabetes should always pack when heading out on a trip. These recommendations aim to provide practical solutions for maintaining optimal health while traveling.

1. Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) Tape

A Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) is a critical tool for tracking blood sugar levels continuously. For those living with diabetes, especially during travel, it’s essential to have extra CGM tape on hand. The adhesive that holds the CGM sensor in place can sometimes fail, particularly in humid or active environments where sweating is common. Extra CGM tape ensures that the sensor remains securely attached, providing accurate readings and uninterrupted monitoring. This precaution can prevent potential issues with...

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Are At-Home A1C Kits Worth It for People with Diabetes?

Are At-Home A1C Kits Worth It for People with Diabetes?

Living with diabetes means regularly monitoring A1C levels, a crucial indicator of blood sugar control. For many, this involves routine visits to healthcare providers or labs. But what if you live in a rural area or face challenges accessing these services? Enter at-home A1C kits, like the ones you might find at your local pharmacy.

These kits promise convenience and quick results, but are they reliable?

Accuracy of At-Home A1C Kits

Studies have shown promising results regarding the accuracy of these kits. One study compared several at-home A1C testing kits against lab-drawn A1C samples. Remarkably, the results were within 5% of the actual value and typically within 0.3 points of the lab-drawn A1C. This means if the device shows an A1C of 7.3, the actual value might range from 7.0 to 7.6—a reasonably close estimate.

Another study, using an Abbot device, reported a strong correlation coefficient of 0.99 when compared to...

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Insulin storage tip you need to know

Imagine a small change in how you store insulin that could make a huge difference in your daily routine. You might already know that refrigeration is a common method, but here's an eye-opening fact: insulin can be safely stored at room temperature for extended periods. This little-known tip isn't just a minor convenience—it's a game changer that can simplify your life and make insulin management easier. While keeping insulin in the fridge is still a valid option, discovering the flexibility of room temperature storage opens up new possibilities for how you handle your medication.

Understanding Insulin Storage

Insulin, a protein molecule, is sensitive to temperature fluctuations. It’s generally recommended to store insulin below 86°F (30°C). As long as it remains within this temperature range, insulin can be safely stored at room temperature for up to 28 days after opening without losing its effectiveness.

However, extremes should be avoided. Insulin can freeze...

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The Best Travel Snack for Stable Blood Sugars: Tips from a Diabetes Dietitian

Traveling can be a daunting experience for individuals managing diabetes, whether it’s type 1 or type 2. From packing essential supplies to navigating airport security with insulin and medications, every aspect of travel can impact blood sugar levels. 

What Makes a Good Travel Snack for Diabetes?

The key to a good travel snack for diabetes lies in its composition. Ideally, it should be:

  • Moderate in Carbohydrates: Opt for snacks that provide a controlled amount of carbohydrates to help avoid rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.
  • Rich in Protein: Protein helps slow down the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream, promoting more stable blood sugar levels.
  • Contains Fiber: Fiber aids in digestion and can help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing the release of glucose.

Why This Combination Works

When you combine moderate carbohydrates with protein and fiber, you create a snack that provides sustained energy without causing significant blood sugar fluctuations. This is...

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Protein and Diabetes: How It Supports Management

Protein is a vital nutrient for individuals managing diabetes, offering significant benefits for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Beyond its essential role in the body's functions, protein plays a crucial part in regulating blood sugar levels, making it a cornerstone of a balanced diet. Here’s why understanding and incorporating adequate protein intake can enhance your diabetes management strategy.

Blood Sugar Regulation

When you consume carbohydrates, they typically cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. However, adding protein to your meals can help mitigate this effect. Protein slows down digestion and delays the absorption of carbohydrates. This means that instead of experiencing a sharp spike followed by a rapid drop in blood sugar levels, your body can maintain a more stable glucose response over time.

For example, if you were to eat a bowl of pasta alone, your blood sugar levels would likely rise quickly and then fall rapidly afterward. In contrast, including a...

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What To Eat at Subway as a Diabetic: A Dietitian's Guide

Managing diabetes involves making smart choices about food, even when dining out. Fast food restaurants like Subway can offer options that are suitable for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Let's dive into some diabetic-friendly choices at Subway, guided by insights from a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator.

1. Rotisserie Chicken Sub

 

One of the top picks for diabetics at Subway is the 6-inch Rotisserie Chicken sub. This choice is not only delicious but also nutritious, providing 25 grams of protein and only 5 grams of fat. Opting for multigrain bread with this sub adds fiber, which helps in slowing down the absorption of sugars into the bloodstream. This can prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar levels, making it a wise choice for diabetic meal planning.

 

2. Turkey Breast Sub

Another excellent option is the Turkey Breast sub. With 19 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber in a 6-inch serving, this sub provides a balanced nutritional profile that...

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