New job or routine can mean a NEW card-to-insulin ratio!

So I worked in an office for the last 10+ years, typing away forming HTML code and editing photos, and mainly sat on my butt for 8 hours a day.  I remember when I would force myself to get up routinely for water and bathroom breaks....  My legs would need a good stretch, my neck was stiff, and I felt tired.  While I enjoy sitting on a regular basis, I finally convinced myself to take the leap and go for a TOTALLY different career where I would be active and on my feet.  I really wanted to be in a field where I would be helping others, and yet have a valuable skill.  This revolution mainly happened after I was diagnosed with diabetes.  Diabetes was the PUSH I needed when it came to trying to achieve ultimate happiness in my life.  I left my job shortly after and really did not hesitate once about the decision.  I always remember to remain positive about the future!  It can be bright :-)

I am pursuing a career in Ultrasound, Cardiac Ultrasound.  I found it interesting and challenging at the same time.  After a few longs months in the school of nonstop studying and test taking, full time, I finally started clinical sites at a local hospital.  I work 36 hours a week, shadowing other Sonographers, scanning patients hearts, and getting use to being in the field.  I get to talk to patients and help make a difference.  Coming from where I was, it is TRULY different...... that is the best way to describe it!

Being diabetic, using flex pens, you have the carb-to-insulin ratio that is SO very important.  You count your carbs per meal, and you inject - and done!  Well, that ratio was when I was sitting for eight hours, and not on my feet going to see patients in there hospital rooms pushing a very heavy ultrasound machine.  Needless to say, I was fighting lows the first 3 weeks and remained pretty nervous about going TOO low.  So of course, THEN I was fighting highs ... again, fearful of going too low.  These are the things I hate about diabetes.......but who would like them?  
I made the very conscious effort to STOP and redo the entire carb-to-insulin ratio.  It only took a few minutes to read my log book and see the changes.  My ratio went way down and my activity has definitely increased since I started this adventure.  I also remember to carry a few pieces of candy with me in my scrub pockets, that has definitely helped :-) 

I find it important to pay attention sooner than later, and in the end you will benefit and be happier.  For me, a more rewarding career, and to be in the environment where I can help others is definitely beneficial.  I think we would all agree Type 1 Diabetes is not terrible IF you have a control on it.  Control- meaning you know your limits on certain foods and/or you know how those foods will effect you...you pay attention to yourself!  It is all about loving and respecting yourself, diabetic or not.

A Normal A1C, deadly for a diabetic?

I had my usual check up at the end of March for my diabetes and, like usually, I am always very curious about my A1C.  I use to feel like I put a lot of effort into keeping it down, but not so anymore.  Or have I just adapted?  I do use the Dexcom G4 and that reading every 5 minutes, It is so valuable.   I can always correct when I see it treading up.  I guess it sounds annoying, and it can be, but the maintenance is about 5-7 minutes of your total day. 

Anyways, she said my A1C was 5.8% and I let out a big 'WOOHOOOO' an thought, 'Wow

that is great!'  I thought it would be higher 6's or close to 7% (which is just as well).
To my total disbelief, she did not exactly agree.... she said it could be dangerous to go so low with your A1C being a diabetic, and even told me a story, I guess to ring-truth to it............
Her brother's college roommate was a Type 1 diabetic and always obsessed with keeping his sugar low.  She said he shrived for it, and exercised often.  One day, her brother came in and found his 'type 1 diabetic roommate dead on the living room floor.'  She stated, his sugar dropped so low, that when he was trying to eat, he was not able to chew the sandwich.  She said it was the low blood sugar, that made his brain not able to know how to chew and/or swallow.

A bit harsh of a horror-diabetes-story?  I would say so... I replied with 'Interesting' and let it fade from there.. but I could not believe what I was hearing.  I am being punished for a lower A1C?  She said 'the perfect A1C is 6.5 - 7.0% for a diabetic' ... I have read several blogs and people posting there 5ish-percent-A1C's.  After all, aren't we all trying to aim for a health body?  

I changed the subject and told her I had the Dexcom G4 sensor and it alarmed and beeped or vibrated when it feel too low.  She replied that she did not know I had that device and yes, it helps a lot.   I told her that I understood her concern, but wanted to rule out those nasty complications of Diabetes. Maybe my control is too tight, but I do spike like normal diabetics and intend to have dessert, of course :) It is not all strict behavior over here, believe me... 

I went home and looked at different A1C charts for diabetics - not for just anybody.  I found a few that said 7-8% was 'BAD!' Other charts said the opposite...
It is nice to know I could loosen my control a bit ...I guess.  I am not sure I see myself doing it.  However, I must thank diabetes sometimes, because now I follow serving guidelines, I eat healthier and I am able to keep my figure.  That is important for your gulf coast summer living! :-)

The satisfaction from Continuous Glucose Monitoring ..

I decided over the Christmas season I would give myself the gift of diabetic-health with the 'Dexcom G4 Continuous Glucose Monitor'  And I cant tell you how much I am enjoying it and how things have changed for the better.  
Since the start of my diabetic life, I have been hearing 'off and on' about a continuous glucose monitor..what they did, and how they worked.  I was always interested, but hmmm, how much different could it really be from my life now (not using a monitor, and just doing 5+ finger sticks a day)?  There can not be THAT big, or much, of a difference than now.  Right?  

WRONG!!! 
I would simply say, having a continuous glucose monitor is the difference between being blind and NOT being blind.  (I say that with the MOST respect to the blind population as well.. )

I was home over the Holidays and DEFINITELY much more active, running from here to there with my lovely family and visiting friends.  It was Christmas time, so I was in the malls, shopping.  My nephew is 2.5 years old now, and constantly wants to play with his Auntie.  There was plenty of food, wine, and several different forms of deliciousness coming at me, full force!  I suffered many lows, and a couple highs, and found it hard to remember to check my blood sugar, all the needed times.  It was a FAR cry from working at your desk 9 to 5- typing on a computer, then going home to your nightly exercise and HBO on the couch. How do I say what I am needing to say so everyone can understand?  I was OUT of my daily routine?  Yes that is it.  Basically.. 
I got home and researched the Dexcom G4, and I watched a few helpful Youtube videos.  One phone call and insurance check later, I had one delivered to my home.

The BEST parts of the Dexcom G4:
-You get a new blood sugar reading, every 5 minutes.  How cool is that?
-You only need to do 1-2 finger sticks a day to 'calibrate' the Dexcom.
(To keep it on track)
-You can set low and high alerts.  Catch your low/high and treat it before it gets BAD!
(We have all been there..)
-The arrow next to your reading/number REALLY says a lot.  I know if I am trending UP or if I am trending DOWN with Dex.  That alone makes me want to throw a party, especially when I am exercising!
-The sensors lasts 7+ days.  (Note the + sign ... that is all I will say about that, la la la!) 

So, there has to be a list of negatives, right?  I can really say I tried to think of some, and I did not have a 'progressive' list of negatives.  The price IS high, or can be high- and that is with insurance covering the transmitter and sensors.  I know some insurance companies, do not cover it at all.  Ouch!  So, to have the Dexcom G4 - you have to make sure to budget for it, sad but true, at least for me..
Oh, when you do change your sensor out (every 7+ days) you have to give it 2 hours to start up, after inserting it,  I think it is a BIT excessive, but nothing terrible.

I do not ever see myself not using the Dexcom G4.  As mentioned before, I felt blind without it.  You can take a blood sugar reading, but that is just 1 reading .. and does not paint a CLEAR picture of where you are going!  :) 
It has definitely changed my life as a diabetic, made my life easier and given me the freedom all diabetic deserve!

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....