Anyone that’s ever needed to purchase diabetic supplies knows how expensive they are, even with insurance. From insulin to test strips, costs continue to escalate. Exactly why the cost of diabetic supplies is so expensive depends on who you ask.

According to manufacturers, the cost of diabetic supplies reflects the cost of the research and development that went into the products, and the ultimate value to patients. Those companies also cite the complexities of their supply chains for elevated prices along with a lengthy and expensive testing process required by the FDA.

The truth is somewhat different. Pharmaceutical companies make the products and there are no laws or restrictions on what they can set the price at. Additionally, the companies don’t have to disclose the formula they use to set those prices and there are no price controls in the U.S. like there are in other countries.

When it comes to diabetic supplies, it’s the Wild West and the sky is the limit on what pharmaceutical companies can charge. They’re under no obligation to negotiate prices or disclose discounts agreed upon with Pharmacy Benefit Managers. It often leaves diabetics with few options and no guarantee that what they can obtain is in line with their treatment or doctor’s orders.

Pharmaceutical companies can – and do – charge as much as the market will allow. It’s the nature of a capitalistic system. The result is that many individuals that are uninsured or uninsured are turning to older and cheaper types of insulin that are also less effective than newer options.

The exorbitant pricing doesn’t stop at insulin. Diabetic test strips are essential tools for monitoring and managing the disease. Test strips are incredible feats of engineering for measuring blood glucose levels. However, each manufacturer’s test strips will only work with the corresponding monitor – also made by the same pharmaceutical company.

The bottom line on costs for diabetic supplies is that the FDA has no power to regulate pharmaceutical companies and the federal government doesn’t want to get involved. Until comprehensive changes are implemented, individuals will continue to travel to Canada for insulin and make use of third-party test strip sellers in the U.S. for the life saving products they need.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

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A number of changes take place as you age, which includes the potential to develop diabetes. It’s important to understand that not all people will be diagnosed with diabetes as they age. However, medical science indicates that adults age 45 and over are at greater risk for developing type 2 diabetes due to insulin resistance and impaired pancreatic functioning due to age-related causes.

There are some elements that affect the risk of developing diabetes at any age and they’re factors that you have no control over. They include behaviors of the past or a genetic predisposition to it. A sedentary lifestyle or a close relative with diabetes are also risk factors.

The highly respected Mayo Clinic suggests that everyone take preventative steps as they age to avoid being diagnosed with the disease. It’s especially important if you’ve been diagnosed with pre-diabetes. It’s never too late to begin a healthier routine that can aid in preventing the disease.

Diet

Eating smart to prevent diabetes is as simple as consuming more fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, and fiber. Those simple changes will aid in weight loss and improving your sensitivity to insulin. Portion size is an important part of reducing the potential for diabetes. It’s better to eat several smaller meals than large meals that will spike glucose levels.

Severely limit sugary drinks such as soda and alcoholic beverages, along with fast food and refined carbohydrates. Drink plenty of water and make it your beverage of choice – add slices of lemon for flavor to make it more appealing. Vitamin D plays a role in glucose control and improves the function of insulin-producing cells.

Exercise

One of the factors connected with diabetes is weight gain. Aerobic exercise is an excellent way to stay fit and burn extra calories. The exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous or extreme – brisk walks or swimming are good forms of exercise. Swimming uses every muscle in the body and water has the ability to lessen the pull of gravity on the body, making exercise easier for those with joint or bone conditions.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

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“There’s an app for that” is more than just a saying or meme. There are dozens of beneficial apps that can help people track their weight loss, eat healthier, monitor their exercise, and even get health questions answered. The following are some of the apps that users have found most helpful. They’re free to use and some have in-app purchasing options.

Elevate

Improve skills in memory and math, the ability to focus and speak well, and the speed at which the brain works. There are in-app purchases, and users get a personalized training program that adjusts to them and their needs the more they use it.

Fabulous

For those that want to be more productive in multiple areas, this app employs a holistic approach to achieve that goal. The app prompts users about a myriad of habits that can help them lose weight, improve focus, maximize energy, and enjoy a more restful sleep.

HabitHull

This app turns maintaining healthy habits into a game. There are multiple types of analytics to track and monitor healthy habits and digital incentives are presented to encourage individuals to maintain them.

HealthTap

Individuals can search more than 2.5 million answers from doctors about health issues. It includes 850 conditions and 7000,000 topics. Users can also ask a question for free and receive a confidential reply from a physician within 24 hours. If the problem is urgent, users can pay a fee to see a doctor immediately.

Moodpath

This is a tool to help people monitor their emotional life. It utilizes a variety of proven techniques – including cognitive behavioral therapy – to help individuals understand their state of mind, eliminate negative behaviors, and accentuate positive ones.

MyFitnessPal

This is beneficial for anyone, but especially diabetics. It doesn’t steer users into any specific diet plan. It just tracks what’s being consumed and provides a breakdown in terms of carbs, fats and proteins. It allows individuals to set their own targets, goals and dietary needs.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

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For most diabetics, needles to inject insulin or perform a finger prick for testing blood glucose levels is a fact of life. Even if you’re using a modern blood sugar monitoring system that eliminates finger pricks, chances are you’re going to have to administer insulin from a vial via a syringe or a needle for insulin pens.

A fear of needles is a major problem for anyone with diabetes. It’s traumatic enough when someone else is giving you an injection and it may seem like a nearly insurmountable task when asked to do it to yourself – not to mention the regular blood tests required at the doctor’s office.

A fear of needles can cause mild anxiety to incapacitating fear, depending on the individual. However, you may be one of the millions of people that is able to overcome the fear and anxiety on your own. Faced with a choice of testing and injecting insulin vs. the potential of dying is an excellent motivator.

Determining the Cause

The method and technique to help you address your fear of needles will depend largely on the reason for it. Anxiety or outright fear can stem from a prior physical experience that was painful or unpleasant. For others, the fear can be psychological in nature. It’s important for you to try and determine the reason for your fear to get the appropriate help.

Antianxiety Medication

It’s important that you speak with your physician about your trepidation. He/she can prescribe anti-anxiety medication that can help calm you. If your doctor doesn’t listen, isn’t sympathetic to your plight, or minimizes your fear, perhaps it’s time to find another physician.

Numbing Creams/Gels

There are over-the-counter and prescription level creams and gels that can be applied topically prior to the needle stick to numb the area. They can be particularly beneficial if the fear of pain associated with a needle stick is at the root of the problem.

Therapy

A therapist can help you minimize, cope with, or completely eradicate your fear of needles. A highly-trained therapist can help you ascertain where your fear originates and provide ways for you to overcome it. Some mental health professionals can also prescribe medications, while others will work with your physician if any type of medication is required.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

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Diabetes takes a heavy toll on a person’s eyesight, even when they don’t know it. It’s just one of the reasons it’s so important to monitor blood glucose levels and receive regular eye exams. Uncontrolled diabetes affects the blood vessels in your retina, resulting in diabetic retinopathy, the most common cause of permanent vision loss in diabetics.

There’s a myriad of symptoms you may or may not notice indicating there’s a problem with your vision long before it becomes critical. Symptoms to look for includes blurry vision, spots or “floaters,” and difficulty driving at night due to glare from lights called halos. Severe headaches, nausea and vomiting can also occur.

Cataracts tend to affect people with diabetes at a younger age than others. Your vision will become blurry and the lenses will become cloudy. Cataracts can occur slowly over time or progress quickly. Diabetics must also guard against glaucoma, a group of eye conditions, some of which provide no warning signs until they’ve reached an advanced stage.

You can’t undo damage to your eyes, but there are methods and treatments that can prevent it from worsening. It’s important to have your eye exams performed by an ophthalmologist that’s familiar with the specific concerns associated with diabetes. An ordinary eye exam won’t be able to detect problems with your eyes that can occur with the disease.

The risk factor for you to develop vision problems is up to five times that of others. The best way to take care of your eyes and preserve your vision is to maintain tight control over your blood glucose levels. The second is regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist. The third is to control blood pressure to eliminate undue pressure against the eyes by blood vessels.

Most insurance companies will pay for an eye exam each year and glasses every other year if you need them. If you’re over the age of 50 and have symptoms of vision loss, insurance may cover the costs of yearly exams. Surgery is also available to eliminate cataracts. Most eye surgeons won’t perform the surgery without an A1C test of a specific level.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

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Monitoring blood glucose levels is a constant task for diabetics and the manner in which they accomplish that has changed significantly over the years. When accurate meters and test strips for at-home use became available, it revolutionized life for diabetics and saved millions of lives.

Diabetic technology continues to evolve, but many aren’t aware of the existing methods or products currently being explored for the future. One of the primary pushes in diabetes technology is the elimination of finger sticks to obtain a blood sample through continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems.

The innovations being created are also designed to help diabetics monitor their glucose levels more closely and record them. It aids in identifying foods that cause spikes in blood sugar levels and when they occur. The following are just some of the advances in technology for blood sugar monitoring.

Phones and Sensors

With a sensor that sticks to the arm and an app, individuals can simply pass their phone over the sensor to obtain an instant glucose reading. No finger sticks or blood draws are necessary.

Subcutaneous Sensors

There are also sensors that can be applied just below the surface of the skin. They transmit a wireless signal to a touch screen or compatible phone to monitor glucose levels in real-time. Each sensor is good for about 10 days. It’s designed for integration with automated insulin dosing systems. However, some are designed simply to supply the data and individuals will still need to inject insulin when needed.

Insulin Pumps

The use of insulin pumps isn’t new, but the way they deliver data has gone wireless. Tubeless systems are now available that use an ultra-thin filament under the surface of the skin to monitor glucose levels so there are no finger sticks. The filament is attached to a monitor worn on the back of the upper arm and data is also sent to a phone, allowing individuals to see their glucose levels minute-by-minute.

Check Before Choosing

Some of the new glucose monitoring systems can be quite expensive and many insurance companies won’t pay for them at all. Other insurers charge a significant co-pay for them. Before choosing any new system, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider to ensure they’re the best solution for the individual lifestyle. Also, talk with any relevant insurers to ascertain what the cost will be before switching.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

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Diabetics quickly learn that there are essential items they need to keep with them at all times, whether they’re traveling long-distance or making a quick trip to the supermarket. Glucose levels can drop or increase quickly. Digestion rates can vary, which will dictate how quickly or slowly glucose from foods enter the system.

The majority of diabetics still use injectable insulin and rely on finger pokes to measure their glucose levels. Being without essential supplies can place individuals at extreme risk. Eating, forgetting to eat, exercise, and a number of other factors affect when individuals will need to test and potentially correct their insulin levels.

Whether individuals live in a hot or cold climate, insulin must be kept at the appropriate temperature. Don’t leave it in a vehicle to overheat or freeze. The following are essential items for a safe and essential diabetes management plan that no diabetic should be without.

Insulin

Whether it’s a long-acting or fast-acting insulin, or a combination of both, diabetics need to ensure they have insulin with them at all times. Diabetes is a difficult disease to manage. Allowing glucose levels to skyrocket leads to a variety of complications over time. Allowing levels to dip too low can lead to life-threatening ketoacidosis.

Syringes/Pen Needles

Insulin doesn’t do any good if the syringes or pen needles aren’t available to inject it. Be sure to replenish the diabetic travel kit each time an item is used out of it.

Glucose Meter/ Test Strips/Lancets

The glucose meter and test strips are the only way individuals will have to accurately monitor their blood sugar levels. Lancets are required to take the blood sample. Don’t forget any of those critical items.

Sharps Container

Used syringes, pen needles and lancets will need to be disposed of properly. Portable sharps containers can be purchased or made, depending upon the laws in a particular state.

Oral Medications

Diabetics and pre-diabetics are often prescribed oral medications as part of their diabetes management and control regimen. Be sure to include any pertinent medications.

Fast Acting Carbs

When glucose levels drop, individuals will need to consume a fast-acting carbohydrate. Make sure that the chosen food is able to withstand extremes of heat, cold and won’t rot. Rescue pens are also available for emergencies.

Carry Case

Use a carry case to keep supplies ready and organized. There are many different types from which to choose that will accommodate multiple lifestyle needs.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

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The benefits of exercise are simply too numerous to not include them as part of your routine on a regular basis. Regular workouts are extremely beneficial to your health in more than 1 way. Here are 5 major benefits of consistent exercise.

1. Strong Immune System

The first benefit of consistent exercise is that it helps to build a strong immune system. Studies have shown that the benefits of consistent exercise can lead to a stronger immune system that can ward off the flu and other illnesses. This includes influenza, swine flu, and hepatitis.

2. Energy

The second benefit of exercise is that it helps to increase your energy level. Many people suffer from fatigue and lack of energy due to a poor immune system. Exercise regularly will help to improve your energy level so that you can fight off feelings of fatigue.

3. Cardiovascular Health

The third benefit is the improvement in cardiovascular health. Frequent exercise can lead to a reduction in high blood pressure and cholesterol, which can lead to a healthier heart. Exercise has also been shown to reduce the risk for heart attack, stroke, diabetes and cancer. This is a combination of factors that can lead to a longer life and a healthier immune system.

4. Stress Relief

The fourth benefit is that it can help to relieve stress. Exercising regularly can allow you to release endorphins through your system. These hormones are often described as the “happy drugs” of the body because they are natural pain killers. They are often used by bodybuilders and athletes to combat stress and provide an escape from daily challenges.

5. Weight Management

The fifth benefit of exercise is that it can help to maintain your weight at a healthy level. Many people struggle with the task of losing weight. Many times the benefits of exercise are overshadowed by a deep fear of gaining weight. People who are exercising on a regular basis find it easier to lose weight and keep it off than those who exercise less frequently or stop any weight loss program cold turkey. This can make a big difference in your health over the long term.

While these are not the only benefits of consistent exercise, these are five of the biggest benefits you will get from it. If you are not already doing it, you should consider incorporating it into your lifestyle now. Your body will be well prepared for the stresses of life and will have a strong immune system to fight off illness.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

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Diabetes is scary and frustrating for those that have the disease and it can be confusing for friends that want to help. They often go online in search of information rather than talking directly to the person that’s been diagnosed. The following are some tips for people that want to help their diabetic friends.

Nagging Never Works

Nagging a friend about their food choices, level of exercise or weight is counterproductive. Diabetics are well aware of their requirements. They may choose not to exercise or make poor dietary choices. There’s a very thin line between being helpful and being annoying.

Healthy Eating

Diabetics know that others can indulge in foods that they have to limit or shouldn’t have at all. Eating rich desserts and unhealthy foods in front of them is just plain rude and does nothing to encourage healthy eating. For those hosting a party, be sure to provide diabetic-friendly choices.

Exercise With Them

Regular exercise is essential for people with diabetes. Offering to exercise with them is healthy for everyone involved. Even a 30-minute walk per day is beneficial.

Be Positive

Encourage diabetic friends to check glucose levels when needed. Diabetes isn’t the automatic death sentence it was in the past and many diabetics live long and healthy lives. The last thing they want to hear about are complications such as heart attacks or amputations. Encourage healthy habits instead of delivering horror stories.

Keep Informed

Individuals can educate themselves about the disease by attending a support group with their friend or seeking information from reliable sources.

Be Observant

Sometimes diabetics may wait too long to eat without realizing it. Understand the signs and symptoms of low glucose levels. Know what to do should that occur as they may be unable to articulate their needs.

Just Listen

Making the changes required for living with diabetes is a 24/7 task that can take a toll on the nerves and mental health of people living with the disease. Sometimes diabetics just need someone to talk to that won’t be judgmental or offer unsolicited advice.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

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There are millions of people that have been diagnosed with diabetes, but there are also millions that are on the cusp of receiving that diagnosis. Diabetes is a disease that’s been around since the time of the Egyptians, but a diabetes diagnosis isn’t the death sentence that it once was. However, the diagnosis often comes as a shock.

Glucose Levels

The body uses glucose to fuel the body and insulin is the hormone your body manufactures to regulate the amount of glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream. When the body doesn’t produce insulin or doesn’t create enough, glucose levels build up in the blood. A simple blood test is used to determine if diabetes is present. The following blood sugar levels are used as a guide by medical professionals.

• 140 or less is normal
• 140-199 is prediabetes
• 200 or higher is defined as diabetes

Testing and Control

If you fall within the last two categories, you’ll need to start monitoring your blood sugar levels. For those with a definite diagnosis of diabetes, oral medications may be required. Insulin may also be needed and administered through daily injections or an insulin pump. Testing multiple times per day is required and there will be dietary changes and adjustments to make.

Some individuals are able to control the disease through diet and exercise. Uncontrolled diabetes results in a myriad of related health issues ranging from kidney disease and cardiovascular conditions to nerve damage. Testing and monitoring will still play a major role in daily life – glucose levels that drop too low can result in coma and death if not treated promptly.

Family and Friends

It’s important that your family knows that you have diabetes and what you need to do to take care of yourself. In addition to testing, monitoring and medications, you’ll need to see your doctor more often. There may be family members or friends that don’t want to know about the disease or how it affects you – and that’s okay. As long as you know and understand what you need to do, that’s all that matters. It may also be helpful to join an online diabetic support group.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

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