Fast food often gets a bad rap, especially for those managing Type 1 diabetes (T1D) or Type 2 diabetes (T2D).

However, if you find yourself craving a quick bite from Jimmy John’s or having to eat there on a roadtrip, there are ways to make it work with your diabetes management plan. With the guidance of a diabetes dietitian, you can enjoy your meal without compromising your health goals. Here’s a detailed rundown of some solid options and tips for making the most of your visit to Jimmy John’s.

Best Jimmy John’s Picks for Managing Diabetes

1. Bootlegger

The Bootlegger is a classic favorite and a fantastic option if you’re looking to keep your meal balanced. This sandwich packs over 40g of protein and only 23g of fat, featuring a satisfying combination of turkey and roast beef. For those managing Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, choosing the Unwich (lettuce-wrapped) version can drastically reduce the carb content, which is excellent for controlling blood sugar levels. If you prefer the...

Navigating the world of diabetes management can feel super confusing, especially if you're newly diagnosed or trying to support someone living with it.

A significant part of diabetes care involves understanding insulin types — particularly long-acting and rapid-acting insulin. Whether dealing with type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes, knowing the differences can help you manage your condition more effectively. Let's break it down in a way that's easy to understand.

Long-Acting Insulin: The Steady Baseline

First up, let's talk about long-acting insulin. Think of this type of insulin as your baseline, working quietly in the background to keep your blood sugar levels stable throughout the day. Long-acting insulin releases super slowly, providing a steady rate that isn't influenced by food. This makes it perfect for maintaining stable blood sugar levels between meals and overnight.

Examples of long-acting insulin include:

• Tresiba
• Lantus
• Toujeo

These insulins mimic the insulin ...

Navigating the fast-food landscape might seem daunting for anyone aiming to maintain a balanced diet, especially for those managing diabetes.

The good news? Your friendly neighborhood registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator is here to guide you through. Here are some top picks you can confidently order without significantly disrupting your blood sugar levels, thanks to recommendations from a diabetes dietitian.

1. Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Consider the grilled chicken sandwich a stellar option. It packs over 40g of protein, just 8g of fat, and 40g of carbs. This meal is a balanced choice for those watching their blood sugar levels, particularly those with type 1 diabetes (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D). A tip from your diabetes dietitian: consider removing half of the bun to reduce your carb intake further, making your blood sugars a bit happier post-meal.

2. The Beef Pot Roast Dinner (or Sandwich)

When you're in the mood for something hearty and find yourself at Culv...

In a classic cartoon, Wile E. Coyote runs off a cliff while chasing the Road Runner and only realizes he's in mid-air when he looks down.

This scenario is strikingly similar to what happens to blood sugar levels when insulin is stacked.

Stacking insulin involves taking multiple insulin corrections in a short period without eating, often driven by frustration over persistent high blood sugar. While it might seem like a quick fix, this method can lead to a severe and dangerous drop in blood sugar levels, creating a risky rollercoaster effect.

Why Stacking Insulin is Risky According to a Diabetes Dietitian

According to a diabetes dietitian, stacking insulin is problematic because it overwhelms the body with more insulin than it can process effectively. Insulin needs time to take effect, and when multiple doses are administered too close together, they can all start working simultaneously. This can result in a sharp and potentially dangerous drop in blood sugar levels, leading to hypog...

 A diabetes dietitian and certified diabetes educator have delved into Costco's extensive selection to find the best products for managing both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

If you're looking for delicious and blood-sugar-friendly options, here are some standout picks that combine flavor and effectiveness in managing your blood sugar levels. Get ready to elevate your grocery game with these top choices!

1. Spinach and Red Pepper Meatballs

First up, let’s talk about these spinach and red pepper meatballs. They’re a fantastic addition to any meal, whether you’re making a hearty sandwich or topping off a dish of black bean pasta. With 15 grams of protein per serving and minimal carbs, these meatballs are perfect for stabilizing blood sugar while still providing that satisfying, savory flavor. Plus, the spinach and red pepper add extra nutrients and a burst of flavor.

2. Crisp Power Protein Pretzels

Let’s dive into something that would have been a great find sooner: Crisp Power Protein ...

For those managing diabetes, keeping insulin effective is crucial.

Insulin, whether for type 1 or type 2 diabetes, is a lifeline that must be handled with care. Understanding how to properly store and manage insulin can make a significant difference in diabetes care, as an insulin mishap can lead to unwanted complications. Here’s what you need to know to keep your insulin safe, based on insights from a seasoned diabetes dietitian.

The Importance of Proper Insulin Storage

Insulin is a protein, and like all proteins, it can denature when exposed to improper temperatures. When insulin gets too warm, its effectiveness can be compromised, meaning it might not work as intended or could become ineffective altogether. This issue is especially pertinent when traveling or during warmer weather. For individuals managing type 1 diabetes (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D), this could mean unexpected blood sugar spikes or dips, adding unnecessary stress to an already complex condition.

Real-Life ...

For those managing Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, finding tasty and diabetes-friendly foods can be a challenge.

A registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator has selected four outstanding Costco finds that help support optimal blood sugar management while satisfying cravings. Here are the top choices recommended by a diabetes dietitian for maintaining your dietary goals.

1. Organic Fruit and Vegetable Pouches

These organic fruit and vegetable pouches are ideal for adding essential servings of fruits and veggies to the diet with minimal fuss. Each bag contains just 13 grams of carbs and 2 grams of fiber per serving, making it an excellent choice for stabilizing blood sugar levels. The fiber helps slow sugar absorption, reducing the risk of spikes. Their portability also makes them perfect for quick snacks, whether on the go or at home.

2. Mush Overnight Oats

Mush Overnight Oats offers a quick and nutritious breakfast option. Each serving is packed with 5 grams of fiber ...

Flying with diabetes can be a real hassle.

From disconnecting insulin pumps to navigating TSA procedures, the journey alone can feel like a full-scale operation. For individuals managing type 1 or type 2 diabetes, understanding why blood sugar levels often spike during flights—and how to prevent it—can make a world of difference.

Why Blood Sugar Levels Rise During Flights

The change in altitude during a flight can have a significant impact on blood sugar levels. When ascending, the body experiences stress due to the decrease in atmospheric pressure. This stress response can cause blood sugar levels to rise. Additionally, the low humidity in the cabin can lead to dehydration, which further contributes to elevated blood sugar levels. It’s a double whammy: stress and dehydration working together to make diabetes management more challenging.

Strategies to Keep Blood Sugar in Check

Alt text: Your Diabetes Insider T1D and T2D Dietitians: Altitude and dehydration raise blood sugar; seek ...

In the world of diabetes management, medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro have become popular for their potential to improve blood sugar control and assist with weight loss.

However, these GLP-1 receptor agonists should not be seen as standalone solutions. They work best when integrated into a comprehensive lifestyle strategy rather than being relied upon exclusively. Here’s why it’s crucial to combine medication with a holistic approach, guided by a Diabetes Educator or a diabetes dietitian.

The Limits of Medication Alone

Consider a recent case involving a patient who saw impressive results with a GLP-1 medication. This individual successfully lost nearly 30 pounds, exercised regularly five days a week, and maintained a balanced diet both at home and when dining out. The medication played a significant role, but it was the combination of lifestyle changes that led to the most notable success.

In contrast, a friend of this patient, who was also on the same medication, did not achi...