A Moment of A1C excitement

Last week I had blood work, and might I add, I have been trying my ABSOLUTE best to not

only eat right, (which everyone should strive for, not only Diabetics) but to (majorly) dose insulin correctly and get my levels to not (totally) spike when I have a meal.  The spikes are OK my doctor has said repeatedly, but I have to admit, if I can prevent it or lessen it, I will challenge myself to do so.
During the blood test last week, I thought 'OH MY GOODNESS!! ...I hope my hard work, and logging, and paying attention has paid off.'  

Of course I have called the Doctor's office everyday since I had the blood work, asking for the nurse to call me with the results, with the exception of weekends.  It took 3-4 long anticipating days...

AND THE RESULTS ARE IN...........
Dum, dum, dum!!! 

I found out Tuesday night, my A1C is/was 5.9%!! 
(Just an FYI, A diabetic should try to be at 7% or under.)

I was very happy with this number, and I will say right now, again, I believe education IS the key when it comes to managing your Type 1 or Type Diabetes.  If you are always willing to learn (and never stop) and strive to find that aspect of 'interesting yet challenging' to yourself, you will have better results and better health.  More importantly, you will be able to help and educate others in times of need.  I love running in to those people who can share what they know!

To learn more about A1C, what it means and WHY it is important, I found this article.  It really gave a lot of detailed, easy to read info.

Blood Work and Some Early Morning Motivation..

This morning was the lovely blood work that all Diabetics must 'grin and bear' on, sometimes, a regular basis.  Yes, on Friday the 13th ... I just noticed that.  (Hmmm..I wonder what good/weird movies are on A&E tonight??)

Blood work does not bother me much anymore.  I was always the type to get very 'stomach-churny' at the very MENTION of a needle and/or blood..  And at that slightest mention, I would hold my stomach and curl up with a weird face and say 'OK STOPPP!!' However, that was before Diabetes and today I dread more about the fact I have to go there SO early and wait and, I can't have coffee.  (I really hate that.)  I like to think that my diagnosis of Diabetes has allowed me to conquer these useless fears that I had.  It does make your outlook on life, and what you can do, more obtainable ... 

So I waited...  I waited 25 minutes or so, with no coffee or breakfast in sight- Oh, and 8 hours of work still ahead of me.  I could only think, 'I'm going to sleep much longer than 5:30am tomorrow!' ... that is for sure :-)
An older woman came in, and sat beside me minutes after I arrived.  I said 'Good Morning', she said 'Merry Christmas' with a smile, and it stopped there.
10 minutes later of playing with the iphone, she wanted to know if I had waited long.  I told her, 'a little while, but there is only 2 here today, usually there is 3.'  Soon after, we were in deep conversation. 

She was a Type 2 diabetic, her husband was, and her son.  She was angry at everything, I could tell, and how easy it is to fall into that spell with Diabetes, I do know.  She said 'honey, it is not Diabetus that will kill you, it is the many complications, that is what will kill you!'  Nice!! ...She was definitely more pessimistic than I was, however I felt she needed someone to listen.  So I let her talk.  She also told me, her son acquired 'Diabetus' from always running around on the job, and having thirst from being active.  She said 'he would always drink Coke. When he was thirsty, he wanted a cold coke'  
(Hmmmm..... that is a big RED no no in my book.)  

I really tried to stop myself, from saying..... and OPPS! ...it just came FLYING out, 'Oh Well...When you are thirsty, the best drink is water.  Did he not like to drink water?'   
Also, shortly following that comment.. 'and those complications can be avoided with keeping your blood sugar low.  That is the reward in your hard work!  I always try my ultimate best to do that, but yes it is not always easy.. I was just at home this month and enjoyed dessert more than I should have..' 
She smiled and agreed.  She knew I was that 'half-full-glass' kind of girl.  She said 'how terribly sorry' she was that I had Diabetes, being 'so young and pretty.'  I replied, 'Well, it's ok.... I will be ok.'  I could only hope when I said goodbye that some of my positiveness rubbed off on her.  She needed it.

Blood work was so quick, so fast, and so painless.... the nurse was very nice, and she had a 10 year old daughter, and her Xmas shopping was done.  I honestly can't even remember much else...Happy Friday!

Foot Care with a Foreign Language Lesson Attached!

I was online last week Googling 'topics of interest' (of course about Diabetes- what else?) and I ran across these cute-cartoon-images about foot care for Diabetics... in Espanol!!! Might as well get your foreign language and foot care concerns addressed in one Subject, right?  :-)

I did not give it too much thought upon first glance, but then I noticed each picture was pretty self exclamatory.
One side says 'No' and the other 'Si' ... so I thought at least I can understand that much.
Check it out .. 

The best way to (start) taking care of your feet is to, firstly, keep your blood sugars in range of 70 to 130 ... My Endo says it takes away many risk factors and concerns for diabetics!  Also, check your feet every day. Look at your bare feet for red spots, cuts and blisters. If you can't see the bottoms of your feet, use a mirror.

I also found these helpful tips: 
-Be active. Plan your physical activity and stick to it.
-Wash your feet every day. Dry them, especially between the toes.
-Keep your skin soft and smooth. Rub a skin lotion over the tops and bottoms of your feet
-Trim your toes when needed. 
-Wear comfortable shoes (I know I don't always do this) and shoes that fit well and protect your feet.

Two for One Holiday Special ..

With Thanksgiving upon us in under a week and Christmas only four weeks after that, it is probably a safe assumption that most of us have the tree trimmed and some gifts under it. I have currently witnessed so many individuals getting mad or upset over the fact that before one holiday is completely over, the next one is being celebrated.  However, I have to disagree.  For me, the time that falls between November 1st and December 25th is truly a special time in the lives of many.  With the beginning of a new season, we suddenly all have something in common, again: the joining of family and friends.

Can't we all be filled with the Christmas Spirit and be thankful at the same time?  Is two not better one?  Forgive me if I offend anyone, but I do believe that is the best part of the seasons.  We can mix them (somewhat) and keep them around LONGER.  For example, I like having my turkey dinner with a 'side of' Christmas tree in the background! :) It can make for a homey feel..
For most, the presence of spending time with family is the best time (I did say most) and we get two Holidays to do that, instead of one.  Of course, I will also say, I am very fortunate to have the family that I have.  The Mom and Dad that dropped everything and drove 9+ hours when I told them that 'I may be diabetic', and my two sisters whose sense of humor, mimics my own.  I like to call sisters 'instant friends' .. because well, they are.

That being said, I guess we all have our Start and Expiration dates that linger in our head.  After all, our whole life IS about time.  I was in Big Lots two days before Halloween picking up some Necessities.  I passed the Halloween aisle and saw the costumes, the candy, foam tombstones, and fake bloody arms and legs.  I guess about 20 steps forward, BOOM! A winter wonderland was laid out before me!  I had to bust out laughing... 

Do you know your ABC's of Diabetes?

Do you know the three important factors to stay on top to be a 'healthy Diabetic?'  Quite

literally, the ABC's of diabetes are in fact: A, B, and C words.

A1C: Known formally as Hemoglobin A1C - this is the amount of oxygen and 'red pigment' that is in the blood for the last 2-3 months.  The red blood cells have an average three month life span, but every 20 seconds or so, 2.4 million red blood cells are renewed and replaced!!  The average A1C for a non-diabetic is 5.5% ....a Diabetic's average A1C should be under 7%.  Keeping a log (digital or written) will help you get a better feel for your numbers, and where you need to make change.

Blood Pressure: This number is written systolic/diastolic (For example: 110/70). The Diastolic (relaxed) is the pressure that is exerted on the walls of the various arteries around the body in between heart beats when the heart is relaxed. The Systolic (contracted) is the normal rhythmical dilatation of the heart during which the chambers are filling with blood.  Keeping your blood pressure below 130/80, will reduce Hypertension and further complications from diabetes.. of course, this goes for those without diabetes, as well.  

Also interesting.... "Diastolic" comes from the Greek diastole meaning "a drawing apart."

"Systolic" comes from the Greek systole meaning "a drawing together or a contraction."

Cholesterol: Your cholesterol numbers tell the amount of fat in your blood. HDL cholesterol helps protect the heart, and you should aim for above 40. LDL cholesterol can clog arteries and lead to heart disease, and you should aim for below 100.  For a total, you want to be at 200 or less.  (Again, this goes for non-diabetic as well, not just us!) 
What about Triglycerides?  (I'm not even sure I could pronounce that one!)  Those are another kind of blood fat that can affect your risk of heart attack and stroke.  Those need to be under 150. Reducing unhealthy fats, like butter, whole milk, and making sure processed foods are 'trans fat free' is the best way. Also, taking an Omega 3 supplement daily, or eating fish 2-3 times per week should put you there..

So, now I've 'learned my ABC's ... won't you come and sing with me?' :-) 

World Diabetes Day ... Nov 14 2013

Today is special .... it is Thursday, November 14, 2013, marking World Diabetes Day, a day designed to raise awareness of diabetes around the world.   There are nearly 26 million Americans with diabetes (and almost one-third of them are not aware they have diabetes).

Today, we applaud the hard work of the communities that shows support for Diabetes Awareness and  It's a global effort to influence effective management of this disease!!!!

For more information on World Diabetes Day, please visit the International Diabetes Federation website .

Diabetics... are we more educated?

When I was first diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, I will admit, I got obsessed on

researching and trying to find out every piece of important information I could possibly find.  It was to the extreme side where I Googled everything, read every article, printed my notes and placed them ON the fridge, and I even contacted a former boyfriend who is diabetic for his 'footnotes' on life!  
Now that I have a 'basic education' built up, I must admit that you never stop learning about your diabetes and the different ways to make it easier.  I honestly enjoy it.. and I just thought the other day, are 'Diabetics naturally smarter on how the body works or functions BECAUSE we have diabetes?'
I had to ponder it .... 

Currently I am going under a drastic 'career switch' and taking Anatomy.  (I say drastic because it is.  I am switching from the Graphic Design field to the Medical field.)  I am currently on Chapter 9 in my huge telephone-directory-sized-book, and it is titled the 'Endocrine System.'  We all know what that is, correct??  (Right.... it's the system we have trouble with and I have considered 'lazy' when speaking about it....) Each section in the book has a 'Section Review' with questions at the end of each chapter.  I was instantly curious what they would ask.  Eager to test my knowledge, I flipped back there.  As I read them to myself, I thought 'hmmm well I know #1.  Ok, I know the answer to #2.... I know #3, #4, and #5!'  Before I knew it, the section review was ending...I was finished!  I went directly to the answer key, and there it was 17 out of 20 answered correctly.  Shocking ... but not really, right?

Could it be we all secretly have education on this subject built up to the point we could educate others when needed?  It should come as no surprise, as we would only get smarter on the subject we live with everyday, definitely not dumber.  My ER doctor, when I came into the hospital, I will not forget, he said 'from now on, your education on diabetes is what will keep you alive and well.  Then you must inform others..'

Powerful and true words, that I now agree with and truly comprehend.

Diabetes card - use it to your advantage?

I do not know about you, but I am the type of person that hates attention from other people if it is not from a person that knows me personally (because to me, those are the people WHO care).  I also hate pity and for someone to have that 'oh poor you' look on there face if they are talking to me.  Do they actually think I am NOT capable of something??  The only pity I like in particular, is my Mom or Dad treating me special when I am ill and feeling vulnerable wrapped 'burrito style' in my blanket. 

I can be quite extreme, to the point where I hide birthday or any other special event in my life from other.  I will simply keep it to myself, going about my days business- particularly from those who do not know me as well as others.  Sometimes I do believe it is because I am shy, but then I think about it - and... I am not that shy at all?  I make eye contact, I say hi to others, and I give compliments and make small talk (ok, it is VERY small talk) but you get the point... 

On a particular Friday afternoon about two weeks ago, I pulled the diabetes card and I have to admit, I did not feel bad at ALL.  There are few who know I have diabetes at work, I mean maybe 4 total (two of those people, are managers - and that is hard to hide when you miss work from your original diagnosis of being in the ICU for 3 days).
So it was Friday, it was after 12pm... and it was pretty outside - the sun shining and temperature a nice 81 degree.  I had dreams of walking outside with my iphone feeling the sun on my face, and getting my nails done after.  Oh yeah, and I needed to go to the post office............ BACK TO REALITY:  I was in a cube, with 4 gray walls, listening to a customer on the phone complain about there website menu not being in proportion to there site they pay $80 a month for.  I suddenly felt like I had to ESCAPE.  It is just about the equivalence of breaking out of jail, some times..  then I remembered, the managers know I am a new diabetic.  Could it be easier? 

A simple email to my boss, I told her I was not feeling so hot .. 'from diabetes' and should probably go.  I know it was wrong, using the Diabetes card when I really did not feel bad- but I could not resist.  We face so much as diabetics some times, I feel like we have right to use it to our advantage some days!  To take time for ourselves and just accomplishment the things we do not always get the time to do ... 

Her reply 5 minutes later: HAVE A NICE DAY!!

A bloodless meter future is near?

Sunday was a beautiful day on the gulf coast and I was out doing my regular 2 mile walk feeling the breeze and smelling all the flowers I would walk by.... listening to Madonna, thinking how nice it is to NOT be working.  Selecting my next music choice on my iphone, I noticed my index finger and thumb .. small scars and pin needles marks from using my glucose meter everyday.  Looking at my other hand, not a single mark was present, and I thought I need to rotate and not abuse the other one so frequently.Then, I thought ...... WAIT.  Should there not already be a bloodless glucose meter in the near future, if not NOW and today? I did a Google search on this and discussed something very present and in our hopeful near future. 

 A company called 'Grove Instruments' is claiming before 2016 they will be the first company to have a bloodless glucose meter on the market using the heat from your finger (or earlobe) to produce an accurate reading in 20 seconds.  The device is small, battery operated, and fits in your shirt pocket.  The biggest plus of it all?  Say goodbye to lancets, test strips, and going to the pharmacy.  So far, over 300 diabetics nationwide have participated in a continuing study and innovation of this product that matches the accuracy of a blood glucose meter.  That's right .... matching the accuracy of a standard meter. Is this nothing but a sweet dream for all of the diabetics out there? ...25 million and rising to be exact.  But why, why are we waiting until 2016 to see such a remarkable and life changing device?  Grove Instruments has one patent pending, 10 funded grants, and several endorsements.  It seems the needed support and funds to reach the top, are there.  Oh yeah .. and I love this part: The CEO has 2 children with type 1 diabetes.  (I actually went searching for his bio, thinking he knew someone who had it, or had a reason to think of such a device.)

We all know where Big Pharma makes there oodles upon oodles of dollars, right?  Testing supplies.  When I run out before insurance can pick them up, I would pay $40 for a box of 25.  I can still not believe these prices.  (Friendly tip: go to Ebay and they are cheaper.) So, with the evolution of such a product - the need for these supplies would greatly decrease.  Does anybody see a connection with this waiting game?

It is something to think about.  I was once in Europe talking with a friend about how small the cars were, comparing them to our Chevy Tahoes, and Lincoln Towncars in the USA.  The person replied, 'The country usually gives it's people what they demand.' 

Calling all supporters!  Check out Grove and spread the word..

The All Mighty, All Powerful .... Steel Cut Oats!

If you like oatmeal in the morning for breakfast, and you have diabetes, then you are in luck!  No, I am not talking about the 'Quaker Oats 6 pack singles' with 30+ grams of sugar...  You know, that big cylinder of oats that are NEXT to those other products?  :) 

I have been eating it more often for breakfast and not only does it keep you full until lunch time comes around, but it reaps other health benefits that you might not have known about:

1) It stabilizes Blood Sugar - It causes a lower rise in blood sugar, starting your day off right while keeping you at the healthy level you need.

2) Antioxidant Benefits - In addition to its fiber benefits, oats are also a very good source of selenium. This powerful antioxidant aids in the prevention of heart disease. Also, selenium takes part in DNA repair and is associated with a reduced risk for cancer, especially colon cancer.

3)Immune Response - Several studies in the past showed significant enhancements to the human immune system's response to bacterial infection. So, starting your day with a bowl of oatmeal may boost your immune response in addition to your morning energy levels.

4) Lower Cholesterol Levels - Studies show that a person with high cholesterol (above 220 mg/dl), consuming just 3 grams of soluble oat fiber per day (an amount found in one bowl of oatmeal) lowers total cholesterol by 8-23%.

I personally love to fix mine with fruit on top, some cinnamon, and then give it a big stir!  Remember - it does not always have to be boring, the more colorful fruit in your diet- the better..

Mediterranean Diet helps maintain a low blood sugar?

Being a Type 1 diabetic, I always think about even if I wanted to diet, it is not always

going to work completely because of the 'highs and lows' that we all encounter from time to time.  I guess some would reply that moderation is the best way to go about eating, and then adding exercise to the equation.  I do agree!  Although, I have finally made the exercise thing a habit, I have not so much on the eating thing.  I do well, and then sometimes you just want to sit and eat in your comfy cotton pants and watch HBO :) 

Today, I read more about the Mediterranean Diet online.  A large observation study is adding another feather to this diet's cap, suggesting that the Mediterranean diet helps Diabetic's maintain a healthy blood sugar.  The diet consists of vegetables and fruits, whole grains, beans, cheese, and fish.  I found on All Recipes website, several great recipes that would definitely satisfy an urge of any type!

Eating a Mediterranean diet is not just good for your metabolic actions, it can also lower your risk of heart disease and stroke, and improves overall brain function.  They say a 'good diet' is one FULL of color ... looking at the picture I found above online, it looks like a rainbow of good food source!

Insulin of the Future?

Last month, my Dad sent a rather exciting (to me) email.  I knew it had to be something interesting or something that pertained to me, as he emails so little, as is.  I always click on it immediately when I see his name :) 
When I opened it, it was a link to a news article... 

It was about breathable Insulin called Afrezza produced by the company MannKind that

would be (hopefully) by FDA approved in early 2014.  I (like many others) inject myself daily 4-6 times a day, and while it is not painful, it is a PAIN to deal with.  So I must admit when I read this, it really grabbed me and pulled me threw a world of Googling and reading as much as I could...and I discovered a lot that other would maybe find interesting..

Although, many case studies on Afrezza have been taking place since 2007 and results show a very positive outcome and review of this product, I found that breathable insulin is nothing new to the field of Diabetes... 
Did you know there was a breathable Insulin called Exubera until 2007?  While it never gained any traction in the medical market, it cited 'low sales due to insurance companies not picking it up' as it's main failure.  Afrezza is said to have that cat in the bag cat bagged, with the same price as the Insulin 'pens' ..promising a better outcome and to be a better overall drug.  Taken 12-14 minutes before meal times, it was comparable to a normal person's pancreas and had the same results.  Oh, and research for any long term stress it would  have on your lungs? ..seems to be looking good since it is an insulin and not a steroid of any shape or form.

The overall outlook for the MannKind company must look good.  With the news of this new breathable insulin possibly being approved soon, the stock for this company soared 18% ... Not to mention, the CEO - Alfred Mann, has put about 930 million dollars of his own money in the company over the years.  Sounds like he has something to believe in!   

Deserted Bliss

Is it just me, or do we often day dream about peace, serenity (whatever it may be) and how to find it?  I always think about the quietness I crave so dearly and WHEN I get to locate it next... I was lucky enough to come across my serenity over the weekend.. 

One of the best parts about living on the Gulf Coast is the scenery and that 'serenity and peace' is not so far away.  It just so happened to be the West end of Dauphin Island with the whitest sand and was only reachable by boat.  The only thing missing was the beer and the beach chairs, and I had found the perfect location for Corona's next commercial shoot.

And another thing ....what is it exactly about abandon objects, in the middle of no-where, that people find eerie and scary... yet calm, peaceful and we want to photograph them at the same time? Ya got me!  .. but I was doing exactly this when I came across this giant green buoy all alone with not a soul around....

China WINS

I read something that was rather surprising on Yahoo news last week about China.  They have overtaken the USA in Diabetes.  Now granted, they have in the upwards of over 1 billion people, to the United States - 330 million, but the percents do not lie.  In 2010, China was at 11.6% of the population with diabetes, while the USA - 11.3%.  I am sure today, these numbers are even higher being almost 4 years later.  

Could it be the possibly the influence of the West Hemispheres diet and restaurants hitting overseas? You know .. the million's of McDonald's and KFC's that you see in this country alone.  They are now global and very, very wide spread.  Most everyone knows you can only eat this food in moderation, but several do not.  Is it trending toward the same epidemic over there as well?  I did wonder and I do believe that these choices can lead to Diabetes and other serious health problems.  In a nation where everything is super-sized and super large, and now 2 for $1 or on a dollar menu, it is no surprise at all.

I always thought of China as fish loving, rice eating population where the green-tea flows from the nearest river!  The article credits 'poor nutrition' and eating too much in later life as the cause for most Type 2 Diabetic cases

Read it, here.

An Ode to all Pets

Anyone with a pet will tell you simply, they are AMAZING.  They are loyal and comfort us,

love us no matter what, and never judge us no matter how much or how often the human race will.  I have my own pet, a cat named Shelby who is approaching 11 years old and, yes ... she is Amazing!  We sit together every morning, as seen in the picture, and do the coffee/TV routine before 8 hours of cubicle world begins...

One of the great pieces of information that I always hear associated with pets, is there effects on our health - in a good way!  Studies have shown that they lower our blood pressure and keep our morale positive overall but did you know that some can also detect low blood sugars?  Several people in 2008 study reported that there animal alerted them about a low blood sugar before they even noticed it themselves.  Studies are now taking place to support this phenomenon.  I recently read a story out of Louisville, KY about a teenager girl with Type 1 who had a trained dog to alert her when she had low blood sugars, being she had Hypoglycemia Unawareness.  The parents said there mind was now at ease and the dog was a 'priceless companion' to the whole family..

Is it any surprise though, that our furry friends are smarter than we give them credit for?
Cats and dogs are known for keen senses and it always seems to amaze the population what are pets can do for us.  Talk about loyalty...   

You know your friends care about your health when .........

......they bring a pan of brownie's to work for 'Pot Luck' and want to include you and make you feel special, or ACTUALLY unspecial like everyone else..... So they come to your desk with a pre-cut 1.5" x 1.5" brownie and say 'this is for you!'  

That happened earlier today and it made my day.  I heard this whispering 'Hey!' and turned around- my friend Courtney was standing there with delicious brownies cut up in a tupperware bowl.  'Do you want one??'  ..... before I could even answer, she said 'I already cut one for you!!' and pointed to this pathetic little brownie away from the other bigger more abundant ones...  It was so cute and little, and thoughtful.  I just giggled at the size of it, and said 'OF COURSE!  Thank you!' 

When others care enough to go out of there way for your health, no matter what it is ... I am absolutely filled with joy.  It does not cost any money, because it is 100% priceless.  So, here's to all that care for someone who is Diabetic, or just care in general!  Excellent job!

Just thought I would share.  Happy Friday!

Diabetes (forcibly) put the 'D' in Diet ...

Do you ever look at those lists of 'blood sugar friendly' foods that you see online, or the doctor's office will give you to help control Diabetes?  Every time I see one, I am immediately scanning it with my eyes to see what looks similar and has the same taste as chocolate donuts :) ...of course NONE of it does.  However, I do tend to eat the same 4-5 vegetables with dinner, so I must say that I enjoy seeing the new beautiful colored veggies that give the promise of lower blood sugar.

Today I found this one ... check it out.  
Now while you won't find that chocolate donut, you will find other things that look just as pretty and can have a great taste sauteed and seasoned right. Top that with a sprinkle of Feta, Goat cheese, or Gorgonzola on top?  (We can have any cheese too, peoples!) How much better would you feel AFTER?  Pretty darn good.... 

It's all IN the BAG...literally!

I laughed when I saw this cartoon and thought of myself a bit ... 

I found cutest bag online at one of my favorite department store's website, and was instantly in love.  It was the perfect shade of blue and I could already picture it on my shoulder before it arrived in the mail.
Upon first glance, I thought to myself- I hope all my STUFF will fit in it.  And yes ... by 'stuff' you know what I mean - my 5+lbs of Diabetes supply and life-saving devices and candy.  I'm not sure it is 100% necessary to always carry these items, depends on the time, place, and how long you are away but isn't it nice to plan ahead just in case?

Some days, I wonder how the men do it without carrying a purse?   :)
I think women tend to over do it when planning ahead, and the men -sometimes they do not plan enough.

Lemons ... a Diabetic Superfood?

I use to frequent a close by Indian restaurant for there delicious blend of Curry, Cumin, and Grand Marsala spices.  They can take any vegetable and turn it into WOW without deep frying it in butter and oil.  So I always thought (maybe) it was a faster but healthier option.  

I came in to pick up my 'Saag Paneer' one night after work and the owner was there.  She

is a lovely woman and we talked while I waited.  Being that some Indians believe in non traditional methods in medicine, I was curious of what she would say when I told her about my Type 1 Diabetes.  To my surprise, she quickly responded with 'you need Lemons in your diet!'

Doing more research, I have to say I found a lot about lemons and Diabetes but anyone can benefits from this lovely citrus fruit.  Not only are they high in Vitamin C, but they are high in Soluble Fiber which helps regulate blood sugar levels through out the day.. In addition to that, it helps inflammation in the blood vessels, and will lower blood pressure overall.

If you get curious enough, try some lemon juice on Balsamic rice, or over grilled chicken.  I frequently use it on fish (although now I will be using it more).  I have also heard it is quite tasty in salsa as well.  Keep in mind, fresh lemon juice is better than buying that lemon shaped container at the grocery.  

So when asked at a restaurant if I wanted lemon in my water, I would always reply with a NO ... thinking about how many hands touched the lemons.  (Yes- a touch of hypochondria, maybe)  After further reading, I think I will put those fears aside and say YES to lemon more often.  

Perfect Gulf Coast Day ......

Diabetes and the SUN..

With summer in full swing, and living in LA (lower Alabama), I can hardly wait some weekends to go to the beach and just BE there.  I can't really say there is an agenda for the beach, except to just be AT the beach!  ...With a magazine and sunscreen in hand,  I am more than prepared ... oh yeah, and my insulin pen..... now I am prepared.  There is something about that warm sun hitting your face, wearing your bathing suit and walking around the shore surrounded by sand and saltwater.  This was me on Saturday, the true definition of hunky dorey ...... (photo's to come soon!)

I packed my lunch with me and ate a sandwich, a cheese stick, blueberries, and 8 units of insulin... notice how I incorporate that insulin into my meal :) .. it comes so easy to do- its all about habits.  A quick blood sugar test 1 hour later and I was 127.  Perfect for me, and just in time to jump in and relax with my $4 blow up silver raft.  

One hour later, I was floating around talking to my friend about random-silly-things. Splashing my feet and paddling with my hands, I did not have a single care in the world as I went over small waves.  I felt fine (but baked!) and decided to come in and walk on shore.  The second my foot hit the ground, I felt it .. shaky, weak, and just knew I was low.  Sure enough .. I went to 61 in that short time.  It was definitely the effects from that sun that we all come to worship at vacation time.....damn.  Quickly I looked for something and after 2 chilled mini snickers, I felt lovely again ....

That is something I did not think about, the effects that the sun can have on those with Diabetes.  Quite interesting though to think about, the sun provides so much for the population of the world, it is quite the giver!  So then I thought... maybe it was trying to help me, keeping my number lower then high ... but he went a bit too far :-) Ha!  

Do you salad?

Two days ago, my friend Courtney and I got together for dinner at her house.  She offered

to serve me lasagna and I gladly accepted!  Before I went following the smell of cheese and meat all the way to her house, I sent her a text message and said 'would you like me to bring salad over?'  She replied 'Sure!' I quickly put together 2 salads, both with red onion and Gorgonzola cheese crumble.  I wanted to add tomatoes and bacon bits .. but RATS..I was out of both.  She liked the variety together and commented on how she loved the cheese.  I was delighted.

Being a salad fan for my years, I have learned that variety is important so you do not get bored when making healthy choices.  My sister always comments on how I have 'collection of 12+ dressings' in my fridge alone.  Also, now being Type 1, a salad is very appealing to my gut since it usually does not require taking my insulin.  (The dressing is usually always considered a fat)  

To add to that, a salad does not have to be boring at all.  Putting it together is almost a form of artwork - with the pretty colors of green, purple, red, and orange.  Did I mention the best part .. CHEESE!  A sprinkle of feta, Gorgonzola, or goat cheese can really set that flavor off.  So, very delicious, healthy and satisfying?  There's feather in your cap!!

A Special kind of Chromosome

Thinking too much about Biology and my upcoming test, I woke up this morning with my late Grandmother on my mind. Her name was Tillie and she lived to be 98 years old.  She had developed Dementia in her old age, but overall lived a very happy and healthy life.  She had a great personality and I will always remember her as a very kind and caring Grandmother.
  
A few years back before her passing, I remember my mom and dad casually talking about how she 'had developed diabetes' and 'took a daily pill for it.'  ....SHE DID?  It came as a shock to me, because I always thought of Diabetes as a serious disease.  I recall how not so shocked they were because they had adapted the thought that her diabetes was from her 'old age.'  She ate dessert normally (maybe more) and it seemed to be maintained from what I remember.  However, I know wish I knew more than I did on her condition....

Taking a closer look at this, and being enrolled in a Biology class with an emphasize on DNA structure and Chromosomes, I am beginning to realize it was not all about her old age.   Out of the 23 pairs of chromosomes that she had, it was written somewhere that she carried a risk factor for Diabetes. Her DNA sent messages with mRNA and the protein did not translate properly.  (OK I know that sounded smart but it is actually confusing, right?) Could it possibly be how I ended up with Diabetes?  I carry some of her same genes and Chromosomes.  Not to mention, she is the only link in my family who was affected.  Out of 14+ Aunts and Uncles and 20+ cousins, she was the only person... and now me.

I can't really call my disease 'special' but it does make me think of her more often and the Chromosome we possibly share....

High Tech Digital Diabetes World..

Now I just love a device that can make your life easier.  Who doesn't!?  Usually, I am looking at the latest and greatest 'computer-high-tech-gadget-thingy' that can wake you up and serve you breakfast and THEN CLEAN UP THE MESS and ... and ...... OK you know what I mean.  I am sure most can relate.  With the smartphone, I can not believe they have not invented such an 'app' already... 

Now a days, I find myself looking curiously at a different kind of high tech.  That is ways to manage (and some days hide) your Diabetes better.  Comparing technology now to the first insulin pump ever created in 1963, you would think it is the year 2080!  In Insulin shots alone, the advancements made there are incredible.  You do not have to draw an amount out of a val  upside down, each time and inject yourself with that large needle.  Not to mention, Sally-Lou at the next table looking at you in shock and awe as you do it.  (I even read a story online about a girl who was pulled over, for speeding, and then searched because the police officer saw her needles!  I had to laugh) .... So the Insulin Pen came along and by turning the dial to the correct unit, followed by an incredibly small flexible needle and a few clicks later  - you were ready to dig in and enjoy those carbohydrates.  Oh and the newest insulin pumps?  It is about the same as viewing a pager and pushing 2-3 buttons.

Speaking of that pump-thing...Last weekend, I was reading Diabetes Forecast online.  I came across the top ten products to be on the look out for in 2014.  Cell-Novo completely caught me eye, and I quickly found myself with several other Internet Explorer tabs open as I Googled it, Youtubed it, and emailed a representative about it..

Coming from the UK, Cell Novo is a wireless/tubeless pump, with a remote that you would maybe mistake for the iphone, it has a colorful screen and comes with 2 rechargeable cartridges.  It uses one site (on the stomach) for continuous glucose monitoring and insulin injections.  The site and cartridge is changed every 3 days.  What I found interesting than most other pumps, was that you have 'real time' updates online that update and show graphs.  Just think for a child that is in school, and the parent who is at the office working... they can log into the site and keep a close eye on there child's readings.  Did I mention I am 30 years old, and I know my retired mother and father would be doing the same thing?  I heard the excitement in my Mothers voice over the phone..I guess  a child of any type, has no age limitations to there parents..
Cell Novo comes out of England and they are about to launch there and other parts of Western Europe.  The representative I emailed with said approval from the FDA will be pending by 2014 (hopefully).  Check out Cell Novo - I'm pretty excited, are you?

Do you believe in Vitamin 'therapy?'

Most recently, at my Endocrinologist appointment, I came prepared with some questions

to ask the Doctor. I like to benefit my health, so I always have a 'running list' of questions written on a notepad that lives in my kitchen. Yeah... I have hit 30 years old, so everything must be written down at this point ... 

Now I have always been a big supporter of vitamins....Reading about them, taking them, telling my friends about them, my two sisters, the cat...basically everyone!  At one time, a man I was dating told me casually one day, that he never took a multi-vitamin before.  WHAT?! So there I was at the grocery store the following week, buying him a bottle of Men's multi-vitamins demanding that he took one daily.  A little extreme, maybe? I have to admit - I did not think so.

On my recent trip to the store, I saw Diabetes Vitamin 'packs.'  A box that contained 60 packs of vitamins that claim to support eye health, heart health, and energy support for Diabetics.  I almost reached to buy these, but thought I would ask my doctor first.  A fast Google search on these, and there were several people claiming there blood sugar levels improved and they had more energy.  Could it really be true?

..I posed the question to my Doctor, what vitamins should I be taking for Diabetes Health?  Without hesitation, he replied with 'you can eat well ...like broccoli.  Do you like broccoli?'  He also said if you were not deficient in a vitamin or mineral that the body already had, 'you just pee it all out.'  I asked again, and he said a simple Multi was 'plenty enough.'    

Well ok .... Did I also mention my Primary Care doctor said the same thing about Probiotics one day?  She did not give them much credit at all, and said 'you can take them if they make you feel better, but you do not have to.' 

So, oh well ....I definitely respect the opinions of those in the medical field and went to school for 30+ years but, alas, I will still be taking my daily multi, fish oil, D3, and probiotics as I like to believe they do something good for me.  I definitely believe they are right as to food and exercise playing a huge role... but, do you believe in Vitamin Therapy?

The Calorie is KING

Lately I have been getting more and more conscious about counting carbohydrates to give myself the proper amount of insulin. I use the Nova Log flex pen and yeah, sometimes I just look at my plate and guess. It's not the best way to go about it but overall I do well.

If you are using a meal time insulin with foods (or an insulin pump), maybe you sometimes feel the same way.  Do you know the '500 Method' to calculate your carbohydrates?  You take 500 divided by the amount of daily meal insulin you take a day.
Example: I want a cheeseburger for my lunch and it has 50g of carbohydrates total.
I know that I use about 25 total units a day, on average.
So I would divide: 500/25 and that comes to 20.
....Now back to that delicious burger ...I would divide that 50 carbs by 20 and that comes to 2.5 I would need about 2.5 units of Insulin to cover this meal.
pretty cool, huh?  Of course, every ones number will be different.

Now pair THAT equation with 'The Calorie King:  Calorie, Fat, and Carbohydrate Counter', and it tells you the carbohydrate count exactly and its very useful (plus it fits nicely in my purse!).  There is so much in here and they also have a FREE app for smart phones.  I have already used it twice today.  I got it today from my Doctor for free (sponsored by Novo Nordisk) and I was instantly happy.  Maybe your doctor has something similar to give you as well??  It does not hurt to ask :) and remember The Calorie Carbohydrate IS King!! 

Accept the Challenge!

Welcome, welcome to my blog and thank you for stopping by!

I am a Type 1 Diabetic and will use this blog to talk about many different subjects of Type 1 Diabetes and other things surrounding it, like cooking/health and ways to make our lives easier and more enjoyable.  I love to learn from others too.

I believe Education is key!  (When it comes to any disease, or I guess, ANYthing)
The more you know ........ well, I'm sure most of you have seen those commercials :)

And to start off, check out these 'Funnies'....