1. Health

Type 2 Diabetes: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Top Warning Signs of Diabetes
Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes share many of the same signs and symptoms. If you notice frequent urination, excessive thirst, unusual fatigue, unexplained weight loss, numbness or tingling of the extremities, blurred vision, dry or itchy skin, recurrent infections, and cuts and bruises that take a long time to heal, you may have diabetes.
Signs and Symptoms of Early Diabetes
View a detailed list of signs and symptoms of early diabetes. It can take years for type 2 diabetes to develop into what is considered a full-blown disease. Damage can be done to the body even before a diagnosis can be made. It is important to know and recognize early diabetes symptoms as soon as possible to gain control of this disease and minimize or prevent future complications.
Diagnosing Type 2 Diabetes
Do you have the signs of type 2 diabetes? How do you find out that you have diabetes? Often, because there may not be noticeable symptoms, the diagnosis is made during an annual physical or checkup.
Simple and Complex Carbs
Simple carbohydrates are also called simple sugars. Simple sugar can be just what the name implies, the sugar in your sugar bowl. Complex carbohydrates are also known as starches. Grains such as bread, pasta, oatmeal and rice are complex carbs. Also some vegetables like broccoli, corn and all legumes such as kidney beans and chick peas.
Build a Healthy Breakfast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Sometimes it also the hardest meal to put together, especially if you work. Add diabetes to the mix, and figuring out what to eat can be downright impossible. What are the healthiest choices?
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes affects nearly 21 million Americans. 90% to 95% of all people diagnosed with the disease have type 2 diabetes. Are you diabetic? Although type 2 diabetes is not always caused by obesity, being overweight is still a risk factor for developing the disease.
What is Prediabetes
Prediabetes means that the cells in your body are becoming insulin resistant and your blood glucose levels are higher than they should be. Diabetes symptoms can appear with prediabetes. Metabolic syndrome also may be a factor. Are you diabetic or prediabetic?
Bananas Carbs - Carb Counts an
Wondering about carb counts and health benefits of bananas? If you're looking for a snack that's healthy, fat-free and satisfying, a banana is the perfect choice. It's a little higher in carbs than some other fruits, but a large banana also has 2 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber. Bananas are a good source of vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, and folic acid, and are rich in potassium and other trace minerals.
List of Starchy Vegetables
A list of starchy vegetables and some information about why you need to pay attention to them when you have type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes Without Symptoms
An estimated 24 million Americans have diabetes, but according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) one-quarter to one-third don’t know it. How can so many individuals be unaware that they have diabetes? Certainly, one major factor is the absence of symptoms. This is a hallmark of both prediabetes and the early stages of type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is a completely different disease than Type 2. Type 1 is an autoimmune disease of the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. Scientists believe that a virus may trigger the immune system to attack the cells and permanently destroy them. The pancreas can no longer make the insulin necessary to transport sugar from the blood into the other cells of the body for energy. Sugar builds up in the blood and over time can damage internal organs and blood vessels.
FPG Testing
The fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test, also known as the fasting blood sugar test, measures blood sugar levels and is used to diagnose diabetes. Relatively simple and inexpensive, the test exposes problems with insulin functioning.
hypoglycemia too low
Keeping blood sugar (glucose) levels from rising too high is the main goal of diabetes care. But glucose levels that drop too low, a condition called hypoglycemia, can be a problem, too. Luckily, hypoglycemia is fairly easy to treat if caught early.
Signs of Low Blood Sugar
Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar is not just a worry for people with type 1 diabetes. People with type 2 should also know the signs of low blood sugar. Do you know what to look for?
When to Go to the ER
A diagnosis of diabetes can be very frightening and overwhelming. There is so much to learn. One of the most important things to know is how to recognize two very serious conditions, called hypoglycemia(low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). These can occur at any time and need to be treated immediately to avoid a medical emergency.
Corn Tortillas Versus Flour Tortillas
Corn tortillas versus flour tortillas. Which is a better choice for type 2 diabetes and why? Check out this smack down and see which one comes out the winner.
Risk Factors
There are many risk factors for type 2 Diabetes. Some of them come from our family history and genetics and so are with us always, but some can be turned around to help reverse or prevent Type 2 Diabetes
Reverse Pre-diabetes
People diagnosed with prediabetes (impaired glucose tolerance) can reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by losing just 5 to 7 percent of their body weight and exercising regularly, according to a clinical study by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
My Top 5 Best Fruits for Diabetics
My top 5 picks for the best fruits for diabetics. These little gems are low on calories, carbs, and fat while packing a high nutritional punch.
Gestational Diabetes Recipes
Gestational diabetes recipes and some snack and meal ideas to assist in meal planning.
What Foods Cause High Triglycerides
Learn what foods cause high triglycerides and get tips on better choices to help lower your levels.
Treatments for Diabetes
A diagnosis of diabetes can bring on many new challenges. Depending on what type of diabetes you have, you may need medication or insulin. You may need to make dietary and other lifestyle changes. There are glucometers, and insulin pumps to learn about. How do you know what to do to manage your diabetes successfully?
What are the Right Numbers?
Depending on where you look, recommended blood glucose levels can vary for people with diabetes. How do you know which to follow? Here are some general guidelines, but ask your healthcare provider which goals are best for you.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy translates as nerve damage. People who have been unaware for several years that they have diabetes, or who have had uncontrolled high blood sugar for a long period of time may develop nerve damage. Prolonged high blood sugar causes damage to several parts of the nervous system. Sensation may become abnormal and tingling or burning pain may develop. Damage to the nerves of the skin makes damage more likely because the person can't feel changes in pressure or temperature.
What Is ‘Brittle’ Diabetes?
Brittle diabetes, also called labile diabetes, is a term used to describe uncontrolled type 1 diabetes. People with brittle diabetes frequently experience large swings in blood sugar (glucose) levels. These cause either hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), which is more common and sometimes extreme.
Kidney Disease Symptoms
What are the symptoms of kidney disease in diabetes? One of the many long-term complications of type 2 diabetes is kidney disease. This is called nephropathy. Excess glucose in the blood can damage the delicate blood vessels in the kidneys that filter the toxins from our bodies. When the kidneys aren't doing their job, toxins can build up in the blood. What are the symptoms of kidney damage and disease?
Watermelon Nutrition Facts
Knowing the carb counts and health benefits of watermelon can help you utilize this fun summer fruit in your diabetes meal plan. Watermelon is low in calories and tastes delicious on a hot summer day. Here's the nutrition facts for watermelon. This refreshing fruit is high in vitamin A and vitamin C, and also is a good source of fiber.
The Best Diabetes Diet
The best diet for you is the one that you can follow for the rest of your life. Most diets can get you to your goal if you do exactly what they say, but once the weight is lost, and you start to eat the way you used to, the weight can come back on with lightening speed.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test
The oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), also referred to as the glucose tolerance test, measures the body’s ability to metabolize glucose, or clear it out of the bloodstream. The test can be used to diagnose diabetes, gestational diabetes or prediabetes.
High A.M. Blood Sugar Levels
High morning blood glucose levels can happen for two reasons. You wake up in the morning and check your blood sugar before breakfast. And it's high. Higher than it usually is in the morning. What's going on? It could be one of two causes.
Diabetes and Skin Problems
The link can be missed between diabetes and skin problems. You may have experienced one of these skin changes and did not realize it was caused by some component of your diabetes management. Learn what to look for and why people with diabetes need to pay attention to what their skin is trying to tell them.
Carb Counts for Strawberries
When you have type 2 diabetes, it's important to keep track of how many carbs you're eating. Even though there's nothing like that first taste of a fresh strawberry in the spring, it's still good to know the carb counts and health benefits of strawberries.
What You Should Know About Diabetes, Cholesterol and Eggs
Eggs are a really useful food to a diabetic meal plan, yet many diabetics worry about eating eggs since they contain cholesterol. While it is not uncommon for a type 2 diabetic to have other conditions like high cholesterol, dietary cholesterol intake itself has not been linked to elevated blood cholesterol levels.
Common Infections in Diabetes
Infections are of particular concern for diabetics. People with diabetes are more susceptible to developing infections, as high blood sugar levels can weaken the patient's immune system defenses. In addition, some diabetes-related health issues, such as nerve damage and reduced blood flow to the extremities, increase the body's vulnerability to infection.
Diabetes and Urination
Diabetes and urination problems often occur together. Here is a list of common urinary problems when you have type 2 diabetes, their treatments, and why they are so common.
Understanding Diabetes
One of the most common chronic conditions in the world, diabetes occurs when the body fails to process sugar correctly. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious complications. Thankfully, it can be treated, and in some cases, reversed.
Eating Out with Diabetes
Eating out with diabetes can be stressful. Restaurants are in the business of selling food, not helping you stick to your diet -- so when you're eating out you'll see, smell and hear about foods that you'd probably like to eat.
The A1c Test
The A1c test (also known as HbA1c or glycated hemoglobin) is a good general measure of diabetes care. While conventional home glucose monitoring measures a person’s blood sugar at a given moment, the A1c test indicates a person’s average blood glucose level over the past few months.
Yeast Infections
While most women will experience at least one yeast infection during the course of their lives, those with diabetes are especially susceptible.
Glycemic Index Chart for Foods
Perhaps you've heard of the glycemic index or glycemic diet. When you have type 2 diabetes, the name of the game is eating foods that don't spike your blood sugar. Counting carbs is one way to keep good control of your numbers. Knowing the glycemic index of the carbs you eat can help you fine tune your meals even more to keep your blood glucose closer to a normal range
Make Good Carb Choices
When you're trying to eat well with diabetes, carbohydrates play a big part. Empty carbs with little
Healthy Eating with Diabetes
Diabetes is one of the only diseases where your food plays a part in the treatment. Eating too much can make you overweight, which raises insulin resistance. The kinds of foods you eat can affect your blood glucose levels. Taking good care of yourself means learning how to manage food and meals.
How To Use A Glucometer
At-home blood sugar monitoring devices called glucometers provide instant feedback and let you know immediately what your blood sugar is. This can give you valuable information about whether your blood sugar is too low or too high or in a good range for you. Here's how to use a glucometer.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common problem for men who have diabetes. It is often the first symptom that men may notice and the one that leads them to the doctor in the first place. It is only after they have sought medical help for ED that they also receive a diagnosis of diabetes. Fifty percent of men with diabetes will suffer from ED within 10 years of diagnosis.
Give An Insulin Injection
A person with Type 1 diabetes requires daily doses of insulin to keep blood glucose levels from going
Diabetic Grocery Shopping
Grocery shopping can feel totally overwhelming when you are a new diabetic. Even when armed with a great diabetic meal plan - it can still be exhausting to try to translate that into a grocery list, and then to navigate aisles and aisles of a food store. As a diabetic, it is important to keep your home stocked with wholesome, colorful, and fresh foods. When healthy choices are available at arms-reach, it will be easier to stick to your diabetic meal plan.
Reactive hypoglycemia
Reactive hypoglycemia occurs in people who do not have diabetes. It's a different type of hypoglycemia than the one that affects people who have diabetes. Although the causes are unrelated, the symptoms of both kinds of hypoglycemia are the same.
Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy is a long-term complication of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. It affects the nerves of the body and can strike the peripheral and/or autonomic nervous systems and can cause numbness and pain. There is no cure for neuropathy.
Obesity is Type 2 Risk
How being overweight or obese makes you more prone to Type 2 diabetes and other serious health conditions.
How Insulin Works in the Body
Have you ever wondered how insulin works in the body? Learn the basic mechanics of how insulin is supposed to work and what happens when the body is resistant to it.
Peripheral Edema and Diabetes
Learn the facts about peripheral edema and diabetes such as the causes, signs, symptoms and what to do about it. Peripheral edema is the collection of fluid in the feet, ankles, and legs. Peripheral edema can be caused by diabetes-related complications as well as being a complicating factor.
Benefits of Lemon and Diabetes
These little yellow handfuls of sunshine may help improve life for people with type 2 diabetes. Learn about the benefits of lemon and diabetes management improvement may be possible.
Metformin
Metformin (brand names Fortamet, Glucophage, Glumteza, Glucophage XR, Riomet) is an oral medication used alone or with other medications to treat type 2 diabetes. It is also available as the combination drug rosiglitazone/metformin (Avandamet).
Adults Diagnosed with Type 1
Type 1 diabetes used to be considered a childhood disease, because it usually afflicts children from infancy to the late teens years. In fact, it is often referred to as juvenile diabetes. But adults can be diagnosed with type 1, too.
Diabetes? Walk Everyday
Walking has a lot of health benefits, but what if walking every day could help stop the progression to diabetes and reverse metabolic syndrome? In studies, regular walking has been shown to lower blood pressure, help regulate blood sugar levels, and aid in weight loss.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
A serious complication of diabetes is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). What are the symptoms, treatment and prevention strategies for diabetic ketoacidosis?
What Do I Eat and Why?
The Exchange Plan, the Counting Carbs Plan, and the Continuous Carbohydrate Plan are the three main meal plans that people with diabetes use to manage their eating. It's important to eat the same amount of carbs, proteins and fats everyday to maintain better control of blood glucose levels. Find the one that fits your lifestyle.
Breakfast Meals for Diabetics
Breakfast is an important meal for diabetics. Routinely eating breakfast has been shown to lead to more regular eating and exercise patterns, better food choices, more consistent energy intakes, and better glucose control. But beware: breakfast has the potential of becoming a very calorie and carbohydrate-dense meal if you are not careful.
Nutrition Facts for Pineapple
Pineapple is fat-free and full of vitamins and fiber, but what about the carbs? Because pineapple is sweet, there are carbs to consider, especially if you have type 2 diabetes. But fruit is always a better nutritional choice than a packaged snack or rich dessert. Here's the breakdown on one of nature's low-calorie snacks.
Cinnamon and Type 2 Diabetes
There has been a lot of talk these days about cinnamon. According to some studies, cinnamon may improve blood glucose and cholesterol levels in people with Type 2 diabetes. Based on those studies, it seems that cinnamon may lower blood glucose, triglycerides and LDL cholesterol in people with Type 2 diabetes.
Medication Reference Chart
There are new medications approved to treat Type 2 diabetes. They are completely new categories of drugs. Januvia, Byetta, and Symlin work in completely different ways than the standard medications. The older classifications of drugs are still being used, sometimes in combination with the newest ones.
Gestational Diabetes Tests
If you are pregnant, your obstetrician has probably told you that you will need gestational diabetes testing. Gestational diabetes testing is an important part of routine prenatal care.
Sample Diabetic 1200-Calorie Meal Plan
If you've received a 1200-calorie diabetic diet prescription from a team of medical professionals, this is a good meal plan to start with.
Benefits of Sweet Potatoes
After you check out the benefits of sweet potatoes, you may decide to make them much more than just a holiday side dish! Sweet potatoes may help control blood sugar, eliminate heavy metals and free radicals, and reduce inflammation.
Diabetic Snack Ideas
Some diabetics will have snacks built into their meal plans on the recommendation of their medical team, or based their personal food preferences. But even if snacks are not a part of your meal plan, there are still times that you'll need to make smart snacking decisions. I divide diabetic snacks into 3 categories: unscheduled between-meal snacks (that won't blow your meal plan), planned snacks that are a part of your meal plan, and emergency hypoglycemia snacks.
Eating and Diabetes
What are the recommended amounts of carbohydrates, proteins and fats for balanced diabetes meals and snacks? Why is the glycemic index important? Learn how to eat properly with diabetes.
Oral Medications
These six classes of oral drugs manage most type 2 diabetes patients: sulfonylureas, biguanides, thiazolidinediones, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, meglitinides and DPP-4 Inhibitors. Each of these classes of drugs works in different ways to help diabetes patients to maintain good glucose control.
A1c to eAG Conversion Chart
Quick information and a handy A1c to eAG Conversion Chart.
Busy Day Breakfast Tips
People are busy these days. Everybody has more than they can handle, juggling jobs, families, kids, etc. Convenience foods and fast food meals can be real time-savers -- but at what cost to your health? If you have type 2 diabetes, you owe it to yourself to eat healthy, nutritious meals, especially at breakfast time.
20 Interesting Facts About Diabetes
Are you ever at a loss to come up with interesting type 2 diabetes trivia? Read 20 interesting facts about diabetes and amaze your diabetic friends.
Sample Diabetic 1800-Calorie
This 1800-calorie diabetic meal plan provides 3 nutritionally balanced meals and one evening snack idea, totaling 1800 calories (approximately 500 per meal and 300 for the snack), 206g Carbohydrate (49% of Calories), 112g Protein (27% of Calories), and 46g Fat (25% of Calories).
Low Carb Vegetables
Each of these low carb vegetables provides only 5 grams of carbohydrate and approximately 25 calories per 1/2 cup cooked or 1 cup raw serving size.
Grams of Carbs per Serving
The usual number of grams of carbs in a serving is 15 grams. That doesn't mean that every serving is the same size. Fifteen grams of carbohydrates could be a cup of milk, a slice of white bread, two pancakes or half a banana.
Diabetes Early Warning Signs
Although 24 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes, it's estimated that an additional 5.7 million people have the disease, but have not yet been been diagnosed. Type 2 diabetes doesn't always have clear symptoms, and often isn't diagnosed until found accidentally during a physical or check-up. Is the condition really symptomless, or are there early warning signs that can sound the alarm?
Ketones
: Organic compounds that result when body fat is broken down for energy. Glucose is usually used by cells
Gangrene
Gangrene is a condition that involves the death and decay of tissue, usually in the extremities. There are three different types of gangrene: dry, wet or gas gangrene. Dry gangrene is the one that most often affects people with diabetes.
Diabetes Disability
Can you get social security diabetes disability benefits?
Kidney Disease in Diabetes

Diabetes is one of the most common causes of kidney disease. How do the kidneys work? Why can diabetes damage the kidneys? What are the signs and symtoms of kidney disease? What do the doctors look for? What is ESRD? What are some options for treatment and care?

walking
Walking is one of the most popular and widely recommended forms of physical activity for people with diabetes. It’s easy, relaxing and can be done practically anywhere. Most important, it’s highly effective at controlling blood glucose levels. Still, there are important things for people with diabetes to consider before taking off.
Diabetes Kidney Disease Diet
Looking for diet tips for diabetic kidney disease? One of the complications of type 2 diabetes is kidney damage which can eventually result in kidney failure. As kidney function decreases, the kinds of foods you eat become very important. There are three minerals that need to be restricted in your meals as your kidneys lose the ability to filter the blood.
Diabetic Neuropathy Amputation
Diabetic neuropathy requiring amputation can be devastating. Diabetic neuropathy increases this risk. Learn what leads to diabetic amputation and what to expect should it become necessary.
Build a Better Lunch
Sometimes figuring out what to eat for lunch is hard, especially if you have type 2 diabetes. All of a sudden, the things you used to like to eat, are on the forbidden list. What are some healthy lunch choices? Can you eat well with diabetes?
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a condition that affects about 4% of all pregnant women. It usually appears midway through the second trimester and disappears after the birth of the baby. It is not permanent. How do you know if you are at risk for developing gestational diabetes?
What Causes High Triglycerides in Diabetes
High triglycerides and diabetes seem to go together like peanut butter and jelly. If you find yourself dealing with these two issues, you are not alone. Take a moment to learn what causes high triglycerides in diabetes.
Somogyi Effect
The Somogyi effect is caused by night time hypoglycemia, that results in a rebound hyperglycemia in the early morning hours. When blood glucose drops during sleep, hormones are released which trigger the liver to release glucose. This results in a high fasting glucose reading the next morning. The Somogyi effect is a result of having extra insulin the body before bedtime, either from not having a bedtime snack, or from long-acting insulins. The Somgyi effect occurs mainly in type 1 diabetes.
Dialysis
Dialysis is a medical process that is used when a person's kidneys are damaged and can no longer filter toxins from the blood. There are two kinds of dialysis.
Smoking Cessation and Diabetes
People who smoke cigarettes, or who are exposed to any amount of second-hand smoke, experience a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, and head and neck cancers than the general population. Smoking-related cardiovascular problems include high blood pressure, heart attack, high cholesterol, and peripheral vascular disease (claudication). Smoking also causes insulin resistance in both diabetic and nondiabetic people.
Avocado Nutrition Facts
Looking for help with your type 2 diabetes meal plan? Need help finding nutrition facts for avocados? If you're trying to add a little variety to your diet and need to keep your blood sugar levels down, look no further than an avocado.
Type 2 Diabetes Meal Planning
There are a few methods that can be used for diabetic meal planning. It is good to research more than one, but also important to remember that diabetic diet needs are going to vary by person. Here, two meal planning methods and a sample meal plan.
Pros and Cons of Sugar Free Candy
If you're wondering whether sugar free candy is an option for you, here are a few points to ponder.
ACE Inhibitors
Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are oral medications that lower blood pressure. ACE inhibitors are used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), coronary artery disease and heart failure, and to help to control the progression of diabetes and kidney disease.
Honey Or Sugar - Which Is Better For Diabetics?
There are lots of opinions out there about the differences between honey and sugar. Read up on which is better if you have diabetes.
Benefits of Tamarind
Tamarind is a sweet and sour food with a tangy taste and is a great choice if you are craving something sweet. It is delicious and is thought to help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
The Non-Diet Diet
Dropping 5 to 7% of your body weight can lower your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol, but who says you have to go on a diet? Here are eight simple changes to make that will help you drop weight without really trying.
diabetes carbohydrate counting
When you have diabetes, carbohydrate counting can be one of the most simple meal planning methods. This is because carb counting allows you the freedom of not planning ahead. Give yourself a little freedom and learn about counting your carbs.
Over the Counter Medications
Cold and flu season comes upon us with a vengeance, at this time of year. Dealing with aches and pains, fevers, sore throats and runny noses is hard enough. Add a few more challenges like diabetes, and perhaps it's complications such as cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure, and there can be a real concern about which over-the-counter (OTC) medications to use.
Ketosis
Ketosis is a natural process that occurs when fats are converted into energy by the body -- usually when there is not enough glucose (carbohydrates) to provide for the body's energy needs.
Eggplant - Healthy Superfood
Type 2 diabetes requires a healthy diet with an eye towards lower carb, lower glycemic index foods for good management. When checking out produce for healthy additions to your diet, don't forget the lowly eggplant. It's a low carb, high fiber vegetable that has infinite possibilities for adding variety to your meals.
Low Carb Diet and Diabetes
Does a low carb diet really help control or even reverse type 2 diabetes? A very low carb diet gave the participants better blood sugar control and more effective weight loss, than participants who followed a low-glycemic reduced calorie diet.
Check Your Blood Sugar
Managing diabetes is all about balance. People with diabetes have to balance food, medication and exercise to keep blood sugar levels in an acceptable range because their bodies can no longer do it for them. Regular self-monitoring of blood glucose levels (SMBG) gives them a handle on where their blood sugar levels are right at the moment that they test.
Diabetes Treatments
Get information on Type 2 diabetes treatments including diet and exercise, self-monitoring, oral medications, injected medications, insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitoring and more. Useful information about diabetes treatments to keep you well-informed.
Pain Medications
Diabetic neuropathy is a long-term complication of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The nerves in the extremities become damaged from many years of exposure to abnormal levels of glucose in the blood. It typically causes numbness, tingling and sometimes intense burning pain as it progresses. What are some of the medications that are offered for neuropathic pain?
Hidden Dangers of Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic disease that can cause many serious complications. Some complications are less well known but not less important. Cardiovascular disease, strokes, high blood pressure, and others can affect people with diabetes.
Benefits of Almond Milk
If you're looking for a healthy alternative to cow's milk, consider almond milk -- a healthy alternative for anyone looking to avoid lactose or hormones, or just looking for a different and tasty addition to their regular meal plan.
Who Gets to See Your Chart?
HIPAA is the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). It means that your private health information is protected by federal law. You have rights regarding your personal information and it provides specific rules and regulations on who may have access to it.
What is the Best Blood Sugar Meter
Looking for the best blood sugar meter? What makes a meter great or the top choice for you? Here are some tips for finding a meter you love.
Diabetes and Surgery
Get all your bases covered by being prepared for the risks associated with diabetes and surgery. People with Type 2 diabetes needing an operation have a higher chance for complications.There is a potential domino effect where one complication can lead to another or series of others. Know what to watch for in regards to diabetes and surgery.
Nighttime Hypoglycemia
Nighttime hypoglycemia is an episode of low blood sugar during the night; these are common and affect nearly every person with type 1 diabetes and a significant minority of those with type 2 diabetes.
Nutrition Facts for Peaches
Peaches are a great summer treat, but are you wondering how many calories and carbs they have? When you have type 2 diabetes, it's important to keep track of your carbohydrates to keep blood glucose levels in an acceptable range. Peaches are a carbohydrate, but they're also packed with vitamins, fiber and lots of antioxidants. Make fresh peaches part of your healthy lifestyle.
Diabetic Nutrition Facts About Apples
Apples are great for keeping your Diabetes under control. Here's why, and some ideas for how you can eat them.
Metabolic Syndrome
What is metabolic syndrome and what does it have to do with diabetes? Metabolic syndrome is a group of symptoms that when clustered together can increase your risk of diabetes, heart disease or stroke. Obesity, high blood pressure, a higher than normal fasting blood glucose, high triglycerides and low HDLs all figure prominently when it comes to your risk of diabetes, heart disease or strokes
Alternative Sweeteners
Looking for a natural sweetener for diabetes nutrition planning? Even though sugar is allowed in a diabetes diet, it's recommended to watch your daily carbs. Alternative sweeteners can help you do that, but what if you are concerned about eating artificial ingredients? Natural sugar substitutes are becoming more popular and easier to find.
Postprandial
: Postprandial literally means "after a meal." For people with diabetes, it refers to blood glucose measurements
Agave Nectar
Agave nectar (or syrup) from the Agave plant is commonly used by diabetics and health foodies as an alternative sweetener -- but that doesn't mean you can consume it with abandon. What you need to know if you're a diabetic.
Diabetes Drinks
A relatively recent study found a significant link between daily diet soda consumption and type 2 diabetes. But here’s the good news: The artificial sweeteners used in the U.S. production of diet soda and other sugar-free beverages have been approved by the FDA. They have not been found to cause health issues, and can provide flexibility for diabetic meal planning.
Who Needs Insulin?
People with type 1 diabetes require supplemental insulin because their bodies can no longer produce insulin themselves. However, type 2 diabetes is different. Less than one third of those with type 2 diabetes take insulin.
Comorbidities of Diabetes
Comorbidities are diseases or conditions that coexist with a primary disease but they also stand on their own as specific diseases. For example someone can have high blood pressure and not have diabetes. But on the other hand, someone with diabetes very often has high blood pressure too.
Put Pre-Diabetes in Reverse
When you've been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, it can be difficult to navigate all the health advice out there. You have to watch your diet, exercise more and perhaps even lose some weight. Smoking, fast food, processed foods and a sedentary lifestyle are all roadblocks to good health.
5 Great Diabetic Brown-Bag Lunch Ideas
Whether you're headed back to school or brown-bagging it at work, these diabetic brown-bag lunch ideas will have you anticipating your lunch break all morning! Packing a lunch rather than buying gives you a little extra planning time to pick foods that will be compliant with your meal plan.
Glycemic Index and Diabetes
The glycemic index is a method of rating foods by how much they raise blood glucose. The glycemic index uses a scale from 1 to 100, with high glycemic numbers indicating foods that raise blood sugar higher and faster than foods with low glycemic numbers.
The Fructosamine Test
If you have type 2 diabetes, you may be familiar with the A1c test, which measures your average blood glucose levels over two or three months. Did you know that there is another test used to track blood glucose levels over time? The fructosamine test is not as well known as the A1c test, but it is also used to measure overall blood glucose levels.
Quinoa Nutritional Facts
Check out these quinoa nutritional facts to see why I name it as one of the healthiest foods.
Diabetes Foot Care
When you have type 2 diabetes, it's so important to protect your feet. The long term complications of diabetes can cause neuropathy which in turn causes numbness and tingling in your feet. Neuropathy is nerve damage. If you have a cut or sore on your foot, you may not be able to feel it. This can increase your risk for infections in your feet. Look for signs of infection with these eight tips.
Simple & Complex Carbohydrates
There are two different kinds of carbohydrates - simple and complex. If you have type 2 diabetes, you know that carbohydrates matter. Although carbohydrates are necessary for a healthy diet, eating too many carbohydrates at a meal can make blood sugar levels soar. Did you know that there are two different kinds of carbs? The trick is to sort out which carbohydrates are good for you and which ones to eat sparingly.
Ups and Downs of Blood Sugar
Blood glucose levels fluctuate all the time, depending on many factors. The trick is to keep them from going too low or too high. If you are aware of the kinds of things that can affect your blood sugar, it's easier to keep it under control.
All in Moderation When it Comes to Alcohol and Diabetes
It seems to be common knowledge these days that a moderate alcohol intake may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Less commonly discussed is alcohol and diabetes.
Fiber and Diabetes
Experts recommend eating between 20 and 35 grams of fiber every day. Sometimes it’s hard to get enough fiber, especially when so many foods today are processed for the sake of convenience.
Diabetes Exchange Chart
Exchanges are a method of meal planning for diabetes. Foods are clustered into groups or categories of similar foods, and serving sizes are established that keep all foods within a group at approximately the same calories, grams of carbs and fats.
Diabetes Diet Menu Ideas for
If you're wondering how you are going to be able to squeeze in the time to make your menus diabetic-friendly, this diabetic diet menu should help! It is designed with foods that require little measurement or that come already packed in the appropriate measure. The meals should also require very little prep time.
Splenda
Splenda is a sugar substitute option that has been found to have little effect on blood sugar. Splenda is made from the FDA-approved artificial sweetener, sucralose. While filling your pantry with specialty diabetic products made from safe alternative sweeteners - such as Splenda - is not necessary, considering the use of such products can give you more flexibility when it comes to diabetic meal planning.
Carbs Affect Blood Sugar
When you eat carbohydrates, either simple or complex, your body breaks them down into sugars, which are absorbed into the bloodstream.
Dawn Phenomenon
The dawn phenomenon causes a rise in blood glucose levels early in the morning before you wake up. During the night, hormones may be released that trigger the liver to release glucose. If there is not enough insulin in the body to counteract this, then blood glucose levels rise during the night, resulting in the higher reading in the morning.
Diets for Diabetics
A listing of diets for diabetics that includes standard prescribed diets as well as popular diets that are diabetes-friendly.
Fruit Smoothies
These diabetic breakfast smoothie recipes all use low-fat yogurt, silken tofu and a banana for a guaranteed super-smooth breakfast shake. You can prep your blender with these breakfast smoothie ingredients (minus the ice) in the evening, so you are ready to blend in the morning.
Diabetes and Anger
Sometimes there are hard questions asked in the Diabetes Forum. A new member, Raines46, asks if it's normal for a husband with type 1 diabetes to erupt into violent anger and take it out on his spouse. Frustration and anger are often experienced by people who deal with chronic illnesses like diabetes.
Pregnancy Blood Sugar Tips for Tight Control
Here are some tips to gain tight control of your blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Whether you have gestational diabetes or preexisting diabetes in pregnancy, the key to lowering risks is the same—keep your pregnancy blood sugar levels in control. Read tips and advice from women who have done it.
How to Make Diabetes Meal Plan
Diabetic meal plans are not "one size fits all." Every diabetic's dietary needs are different. They will
Why Rotate Injection Sites?
Rotating insulin injection sites helps prevent damage to the skin and underlying tissue. Switching insulin injection sites can also help you get the most efficient blood glucose control.
Buffalo Style Chicken
Eating authentic Buffalo wings can add a lot of fat and calories to your day. How can you enjoy this spicy treat and still stay on your diet? Make this tender spicy chicken recipe that satisfies even the deepest yearning for real Buffalo wings.
MRSA and Diabetic Foot Ulcers
MRSA, (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a growing threat to people who have diabetes. Diabetes can lead to increased risk for open sores, ulcers and infection. Now there's something more to worry about. The ulcers and open sores that can occur in diabetic feet can put you at risk for contracting MRSA in addition to other infections.
What is a Carbohydrate?
A carbohydrate is the most common source of energy found in food. It is broken down by digestion into glucose for use in the body. Carbohydrates are found in many different foods, such as sugars, starches and fiber.
diabetes in pregnancy diet planning
Pre-planning and customizing a diet plan for pregnancy goes a long way to reducing risks and making you feel empowered. This is true whether you have gestational diabetes or pre-existing diabetes in pregnancy. Here are some things to consider when working with your healthcare team to tailor a plan just for you.
Food Exchange Lists
Eating properly when you have diabetes requires lots of attention. One way you can vary up what you eat is by tuning into a diabetic exchange list. Here's one for foods commonly eaten on special occasions, like birthdays and holidays.
hypoglycemia in pregnancy
Hypoglycemia in pregnancy is a concern for pregnant women who have either preexisting diabetes or gestational diabetes.
Get Physical
For people with diabetes, exercise can do more than help them lose weight. It can help keep blood glucose levels in range, and can go a long way toward preventing the complications associated with diabetes.
Insulin Reference Chart
Doctors may prescribe several different types of insulin. This chart will help you understand how the various insulin medications work, and why your doctor has prescribed them for you.
Preexisting Diabetes and Pregnancy
Looking for information on preexisting diabetes and pregnancy? Do you wonder if you can have a baby?
Sugar Replacements for Diabet
Type 2 Diabetics need to limit the use of real sugar. Luckily, there are a number of zero and low-carbohydrate alternatives detailed here to choose from.
What Are Diabetic Socks and Do I Need Them
Have you heard of diabetic socks and is it necessary to buy them? Learn about the best socks for diabetics.
Diabetic Oatmeal Breakfast Re
Oatmeal is a good source of soluble fiber and also has a small amount of fat in it. As a component of a diabetic breakfast, these characteristics will help you with both glucose and morning appetite control. Seasonal fruit or frozen fruit can be substituted in all recipes, which are all nutritionally balanced and provide 55-60 grams of carbohydrate.

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