The Anemic Cycle of an Impaired Kidney
One of the problems most often associated with diabetes is a decrease in kidney function and disease that often accompanies kidney decline. It appears the kidneys may have more responsibility for good health than you may have thought.

A recent report from the National Anemia Action Council suggests, “Persons with diabetes and hypertension are at risk for kidney disease which can be progressive, leading to reduced kidney function and even kidney failure. One of the consequences of reduced kidney function can be anemia and increased risk for cardiovascular disease and events.”

Getting Proactive About Diabetes

If, in most cases, type 2 diabetes is a preventable illness why do we wait to treat the illness instead of working harder to prevent it? That’s a question posed by the UK based diabetes.org. They’ve come up with a solution.

As of this report there are around 2,000 individuals signed up to raise funds, donate, get the word out or adopt a healthier lifestyle as part of the Get Serious program. It’s a start.

A Diabetic’s Birthday Gift
In a slight twist on an old story one young man is providing an example to others that giving means more than getting. The beneficiaries of his idea are diabetics and his ability to give rests on the celebration of his birthday.

A Diabetic’s Guilt-Free Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Day has traditionally been thought of as a day of indulgent feasting. We rationalize the overeating as a minor indiscretion that can be made up by eating less before and after the big day. For diabetics this may not be a choice that promotes good health.

The truth is there’s a lot to honor about the Thanksgiving meal.  According to Yahoo Health turkey is a great protein source with very little fat. Sweet potatoes provide abundant nutrition including beta carotene, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Cranberries are a good source of vitamin C and have antioxidants. And finally roasted chestnuts, “Provides about 150 calories with only 1 gram of fat. They're a great source of potassium, vitamin C and fiber (5 grams per half-cup!).”

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What is a Glucose Meter and Why Do I Need a Free One?

For diabetics a glucose meter can literally be a lifesaver. The proper use of a meter allows the user to avoid both hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). The need to keep glucose in balance is vital to effectively managing the disease.

Hyperglycemia

A single instance of high blood sugar may not be cause for undue alarm. However, when blood sugars remain high for an extended period of time in a diabetic the following symptoms often show up.

·         Skin infections

·         Slow-healing cuts and sores

·         Decreased vision

·         Nerve damage causing painful cold or insensitive feet, loss of hair on the lower extremities, and/or erectile dysfunction

·         Stomach and intestinal problems such as chronic constipation or diarrhea (Source: WebMD)

Hypoglycemia

Low blood sugar can be problematic for diabetics simply because it provides a profound sense of lethargy. Consider these side effects of hypoglycemia.

·         fatigue

·         insomnia

·         mental confusion

·         nervousness

·         mood swings

·         faintness

·         headaches

·         depression

·         phobias

·         heart palpitations

·         a craving for sweets

·         cold hands and feet

·         forgetfulness

·         dizziness

·         blurred vision

·         inner trembling

·         outbursts of temper

·         sudden hunger

·         allergies

·         crying spells

(Source: diabeticlive.com)

The Answer?

To keep a balance in your body’s blood sugars you will need to use a glucose monitor to gauge where you stand with blood glucose issues. The Mayo Clinic offers the following reasons to use a blood glucose monitor (meter).

“Glucose meters require that you prick your finger or alternative site and put a drop of blood on a test strip that is inserted into the meter. Testing regularly allows you to look for patterns to see if your blood glucose is in a safe range. If not, a change in diet, increase exercise, or a visit to your healthcare provider for medication to lower blood sugar and your risk of complications may be needed.

“Blood glucose monitoring can also tell you if your blood sugar is too low, a potentially dangerous situation that requires you to eat or drink something with 10-15 grams of carbohydrates.” (Source: MayoClinic.org) 

The Offer

At diabetic live we have developed strategic partnerships that allow us to provide a no cost (free) option for managing your blood glucose levels. As a diabetic you are invited to request a free blood glucose monitor. WebMD suggests, “Everyone with diabetes should test their blood sugar, or glucose, levels regularly. Knowing your blood glucose levels allows you to alter your diabetes management strategy if your levels aren't near your target blood glucose.”

We understand that economic conditions have forced many diabetics to struggle with their managed care. Some are regrettably reducing medication intake and neglecting certain aspects of their care specifically due to costs. It is our hope that the offer of a free blood glucose meter can provide some much needed help in allowing you stay within your managed goals while keeping your diabetes in balance.

Current technology allows blood glucose meters to be more accurate and less cumbersome than previous models. We would welcome the opportunity to help you with your diabetes through this free offer. It only takes a few seconds to complete the online form – and we’ll take it from there.

Get your free glucose meter here.