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'....