People with diabetes are constantly looking for ways to reduce their sugar intake so they can better manage the disease. There are a number of strategies that people can employ to reduce the amount of sugar they’re consuming.

Serving Size

One of the biggest problems for all people in the U.S. is serving size. It’s helpful to reduce the serving size by 1/3 or even half.

Sugar and Substitutes

Reduce the amount of sugar in everyday foods and don’t be fooled by sugar substitutes. The body doesn’t make distinctions in how it reacts to different types of sugar.

Hydrate

That means drinking water instead of sports drinks, soda and similar sugary beverages Consume alcohol sparingly. The ingredients in many cocktails contain a substantial amount of sugar.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh is best, but frozen, dried and canned fruits and veggies are equally acceptable. They’re high-fiber foods that make people feel fuller longer and individuals may even lose some weight. When buying canned or frozen fruits, avoid those that have heavy syrup. If they do contain syrup, drain before eating.

Extracts, Spices & Substitutes

A variety of extracts are available to enhance the flavor of baked goods instead of adding sugar. Consider using substitutes like sugar free applesauce instead of sugar. There are also an extensive range of spices that can be added to dishes for interest and flavor rather than high-calorie ingredients.

Breads, Desserts & Snacks

Breads, desserts and “healthy snacks” are some of the most difficult items for diabetics. They have the ability to cause dangerous sugar spikes. Desserts alone account for up to 18 percent of added sugars in the diet. Limit breads and instead of ice cream, cake or doughnuts, eat some fresh fruit or no-sugar-added yogurt. Nutritionists suggest Greek yogurt, but many find the taste bitter or otherwise unpleasant. Try adding some cinnamon or nutmeg to make it more palatable. Healthy snacks often contain as much sugar as candy.

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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 methods for managing diabetes have expanded rapidly and people with the disease now have many more options. One management method that has been around since 1979 is the insulin pump. It’s an attractive alternative for those that are tired of injecting insulin.

An insulin pump works in two ways. It automatically delivers the appropriate amount of insulin in a measured and continuous dose. Individuals can also direct the pump to release a large dose prior to having a meal. The small, computerized devices provide a convenient means of maintaining insulin control without the need to stop activities and manually administer a dose of insulin.

When using an insulin pump, insulin is delivered through a small plastic tube called a catheter. The catheter is attached to the pump on one end and a needle is attached to the other end. The needle is inserted into the fatty tissue of the body and taped in place. Insulin pumps emulate the body’s normal functioning.

Modern insulin pumps can be integrated with a continuous glucose monitor. Doing so helps people understand how different activities and meal times affect glucose levels. The pumps help individuals attain better control and lower A1C numbers.

The pumps have been used for people of all ages. If a continuous glucose monitor isn’t used in conjunction with the pump, individuals will still need to perform regular testing. It’s an important safety measure to ensure that the pump is working correctly. If for any reason the pump fails to perform, it can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, a dangerous condition.

Choosing an insulin pump over insulin injections is a highly personal decision. The pumps can be especially beneficial for those that have slow digestion and absorption of food from the stomach, known as gastroparesis. It’s advantageous for women planning a pregnancy, those that are very active, and people that experience frequent low blood sugar readings.

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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If the test strip container has been opened, test strips expire 180 days after they’re opened or by the expiration date on the label – whichever comes first. If the test strip container hasn’t been opened, they expire on the expiration date printed on the label.

The chemicals and stabilizers used in the manufacture of test strips create a biochemical electrical circuit when exposed to a drop of blood, that’s then read by a glucose meter. The accuracy of test strips can be compromised by a variety of factors.

Test strip accuracy is essential for managing diabetes. Exposure to high heat or coldness, damp conditions, and direct sunlight will negatively affect the effectiveness of test strips and result in readings that are false. The chemicals and stabilizers also break down over time, leading to inaccuracies. Companies that manufacture test strips don’t guarantee any accuracy past the printed expiration date.

Using expired test strips make it extremely difficult to manage and control blood glucose levels. People may administer too much or too little insulin that can lead to deadly consequences. Many medications also affect glucose levels, thereby compounding the problem of expired test strips.

Despite continuous monitoring devices and other innovations in diabetes care, the majority of people with the disease still rely upon regular testing via test strips and meters to monitor their glucose levels. That requires a sufficient amount of test strips for regular testing. Test strips can be very expensive and the cost varies by brand.

Many people don’t test as often as they should due to the expense of test strips. That’s when a company that buys test strips can help. The companies purchase test strips from people that have more than they need and resell them at a lesser price than can be found at stores. The companies have strict guidelines about expiration dates and the condition of packages to ensure their customers receive test strips that are accurate.

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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In an effort to preserve their diabetic test strips and extend their shelf life, many people are treating them like they would food by storing them in the refrigerator or freezer. They’re ruining their test strips and destroying the accuracy without even knowing it. Storing them in such a way affects the accuracy of readings and can lead to deadly consequences.

A vial of test strips should remain unopened until they’re ready to be used and in their original container. They must be stored in a cool, dry place, but never in the refrigerator or freezer, and out of direct sunlight. The ideal temperature conditions are between 68°F to 86°F, with the optimal temperature being 77°F. They should also be stored at humidity levels below 70 percent.

The vials in which test strips are packaged are designed to protect them from moisture, light and temperature variances that are detrimental to them. They should never be taken out of the vial for travel or to reduce bulkiness of the supplies diabetics need to carry with them. Removing them from their protective vial, even for 30 to 45 minutes, can render them inaccurate and result in a false glucose reading.

Each box of test strips has an expiration date printed on the label. It’s not recommended to try to stock up on test strips as an individual may not be able to use them up before they expire. Test strips that are past the expiration date or that have been stored incorrectly won’t provide an accurate reading. That can lead to an individual injecting too much or too little insulin.

There’s currently no better way to store test strips or any way to extend their shelf life. The best solution is not to purchase more than you’ll use within the expiration date printed on the label and to store them according to traditional methods as previously noted.

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!

In an effort to manage their diabetes, many people are seeking new sources of sweeteners that have a lesser effect on their blood glucose levels. The latest sweetener to hit the shelves in the U.S. is monk fruit. No adverse side effects have been reported, but that doesn’t mean it should be consumed with wild abandon. The impact and effects of monk fruit haven’t been studied in people with Type 2 diabetes.

Monk fruit has received the “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) designation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The sweetener is said to be no-calorie and it’s intensely sweet. Monk fruit is being widely used as an alternative to traditional sugar since it satisfies a yearning for sweetness, while being low in carbohydrates.

It can be 150 to 200 times sweeter than traditional sugar and used in baked goods because its stable at high temperatures. It’s used in the manufacture of products that include candy, juices and soft drinks, condiments, desserts and dairy products.

The American Diabetes Association indicates that monk fruit sweetener may be an acceptable substitute for diabetics that regularly consume sugar, honey and agave syrup – when used in moderation. Endocrinology and metabolism specialists at the Cleveland Clinic say there’s no studies or evidence that monk fruit has any health benefits.

Monk fruit is native to Southern China where it’s known as lo han guo or swingle fruit.  The sweetener is produced by crushing the fruit and filtering out the skin and seeds. The liquid can be used as a liquid or turned into a powder. During the manufacture of monk fruit as a sweetener, it’s often blended with a carbohydrate called erythritol to aid in making in look and taste more like regular sugar.

However, some people are allergic to monk fruit. Signs of an allergic reaction can encompass developing hives or a rash, wheezing and/or difficulty breathing, and a rapid or weak pulse. Additionally, it can cause dizziness, a swollen tongue, stomach pain, and vomiting.

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!

Fruit is an essential part of a balanced diet and it provides a natural sweet treat. However, for those with diabetes, fruit can create glucose spikes that makes it more difficult to manage blood sugar levels. In addition to sugar, fruit contains carbohydrates that the body converts into sugar. Fruits should be eaten in moderation and it’s important to count carbs with fruit.

Some types of fruit will increase blood sugar levels faster than others and rate highly on the glycemic index. Some of those include bananas, cherries, figs, grapes, mangos, pineapples and watermelon. That doesn’t mean they should be eliminated from the diet. They just need to be consumed in moderation.

Dried fruits have the water content removed, thereby turning them into concentrated bites of sugar. Canned fruits packed in syrup should be avoided in favor of those packed in water. People with the disease should be careful when consuming fruit juices. They may seem like a good alternative to fruits, but they’re full of sugar.

Choose fruits that have a low glycemic index rating. They include fruits such as apples, blackberries, dates, pears, plums and strawberries. Keep in mind that darker fruits are also heart healthy. Fruits that have a medium rating on the glycemic index are kiwi, oranges, raisins and underripe bananas.

Eating fresh fruits also have other benefits. They contain antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals in the body. Free radicals cause damage at the cellular level and are responsible for early signs of aging. Fresh fruit contains fiber that helps people feel fuller longer and can help in weight loss. Fruits are also beneficial for supporting the immune system.

The bottom line for diabetics is that fruit is an integral part of a healthy diet and has a variety of benefits for the entire body. People with the disease should strive to consume fruits that have a low glycemic index rating and consume them in moderation.

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!

Test strips are an essential element in the life of diabetics to monitor and manage their disease. Development of the test strip is the result of chemist Helen Murray Free. It paved the way for the home testing kits that today’s diabetics use. She left a legacy that’s saved countless lives.

Before the invention of test strips to measure blood glucose levels, testing for diabetes meant dropping a reagent tablet in a test tube containing a urine sample mixed with water. The level of sugar in the urine was determined by the color it turned – from dark blue to orange. The problem was that the test detected any sugar, not just glucose.

Free earned a Ph.D. in biochemistry from Western Reserve University and had research experience at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic. She was an employee, along with her future husband, Alfred, at Miles Laboratory. He hired her in 1947 as a quality control chemist for a research team.

The team was successful in making the Clinistix®, the first dip and read test, more sensitive, but they wanted to create a strip that was more convenient and didn’t use a tablet. The solution was found in 1956, but was a labor-intensive process in which the paper filters were cut by hand, dipped into a reagent solution, then dried in ovens.

Free’s research resulted in a major breakthrough that led to a variety of dip-and-read tests for other substances. She wanted a test that provided a real-time reading of glucose levels that urine-based tests didn’t provide. She was successful and Miles Laboratory introduced test strips for blood glucose in 1964 and the meter to read it in 1969 that was invented by Anton Clemens.

The meter was big and bulky, the test strips expensive, and both were only available in doctor’s offices that could afford them and in laboratories. Through the work of Free and future innovation, people with diabetes now have pocket sized glucose meters and convenient test strips for use at home. The first home metering option was introduced about 1981.

Helen Murray Free received many awards and honors for her work. She was born on Feb. 20, 1923 in Pittsburgh, PA and died at the age of 98 on May 1, 2021 in Elkhart, IN.

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!

A number of people with diabetes use protein powder for daily shakes and smoothies for weight loss and in an effort to gain better control and management of their disease. Protein in food that’s consumed takes longer to digest and aids in managing diabetes. Protein shakes may have the same effect, but there are some ingredients of which individuals should be aware.

Many protein powders contain highly processed carbohydrates that the body identifies as sugar, that can result in blood sugar spikes. They may also contain high levels of sugar or sweeteners that make blood glucose levels soar. It doesn’t matter what type of sugar that’s consumed, the body reacts to it in the same way. Beware of protein powder containing sugar, artificial sweeteners, fruit juice, and agave.

Protein helps rebuild and repair muscles and is present in body cells. The body uses proteins to regulate organs, body tissues, and aids in the functioning of the body. Adding a protein beverage instead of a meal can be effective for some to lose weight. The body can only process a certain amount of protein per day. The excess is excreted from the body as waste. Avoid protein powders high in fats.

There are whey-based that get protein from milk. Plant-based protein powders can use hemp, nuts, peas, soy or rice for its protein content. Plant-based powders are appropriate for those that are lactose intolerant or don’t consume meat.

Individuals have access to dozens of brands of protein powders. Each person will need to make their choice based on factors such as taste, price and availability. Look for protein powder that are low-carb, low-fat, and with no added sugar of any kind. Individuals should begin using protein powder slowly and test their blood sugar levels frequently until they learn how the powder affects their glucose levels.

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!

The summer season presents some special concerns for people with diabetes. It’s more difficult for individuals to keep their blood sugar levels at a safe level during the heat of summer. It’s a time when diabetes management can be interrupted for many reasons.

Use of Insulin

High temperatures affect the way the body uses insulin. Individuals will need to test more often to keep blood sugar levels within range. Individuals will need to adjust their diet, liquid intake, and insulin dosage.

Dehydration

People with diabetes are more sensitive to humidity and temperatures, and they’re at increased risk of heat exhaustion. Diabetics get dehydrated quicker than others and failure to drink enough liquids – preferably water – can increase blood sugar levels. Those elevated levels make individuals urinate more often. Diuretics and some blood pressure medications can contribute to dehydration.

Diabetics should drink water, even if they don’t feel particularly thirsty. Eschew any type of alcoholic drinks and beverages that contain caffeine. That includes coffee, tea, sports drinks and energy beverages. They contribute to dehydration.

Heat Exhaustion/Heat Stroke

Damage to blood vessels and nerves is a common problem for diabetics and can interfere with the ability to sweat and cool the body. That can easily lead to medical emergencies of heat exhaustion or heat stroke Keep informed about the heat index. The temperature may be 80, but can actually feel like 100 due to the combination of heat and humidity. Stay in the shade as much as possible.

Use A/C

Make good use of air conditioning, especially during the hottest part of the day. Fans don’t cool – they just blow around the heated air. Exercise, walk the dog and run errands during the coolest part of the day. Consider exercising at an air-conditioned gym or fitness center.

Dress Light and Loose

Wear light colored clothing that fits loosely and is lightweight to reduce sweating and allow sweat to evaporate better.

Power Outages

Plan ahead for power outages. Have a small cooler and ice on hand for insulin that must be kept cool. Go to a cooling station or other facility where air conditioning is available if the outage will last several hours.

Symptoms

Know the symptoms of high or low blood sugar levels. Symptoms encompass dizziness, headaches, nausea and increased heartbeat, along with muscle cramps, profuse sweating and even fainting. The inability to sweat is a major danger sign.

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!

When you’re diagnosed with diabetes, the overwhelming warning you receive from doctors is to be careful of high blood sugar levels. You’re cautioned about the symptoms of glucose levels that are too high and the deadly conditions to which you’re susceptible ranging from heart disease to kidney failure. What doctors and dieticians seldom tell you is the dangers of low blood sugar known as hypoglycemia.

Low glucose levels can be just as dangerous and deadly as those that are too elevated. In an effort to manage the disease, you could be placing yourself at risk for low blood sugar levels. Glucose levels continually change throughout the day and it’s essential that you know the symptoms of hypoglycemia, its causes, and what to do.

Reasons for Low Blood Sugar

You may have taken too much insulin, it’s been too long since you’ve eaten, or you’ve been engaged in physical activity which uses extra sugar to fuel the body. Drinking alcohol and caffeinated beverages, being dehydrated, and exposure to very hot and humid conditions can also result in low blood sugar. Women may experience low blood sugar levels during menstruation. Some diseases and disorders, types of prescribed medications, and over-the-counter remedies can affect blood glucose levels.

Symptoms

Many of the symptoms of low blood sugar are similar to those of elevated glucose levels. You may begin to shake and/or sweat, feel nervous or anxious, and display irritability or confusion. Dizziness and fast heartbeat are also symptoms and you might or might not feel hungry.

As hypoglycemia worsens, symptoms include weakness, along with difficulty seeing clearly and walking. It’s not uncommon to faint and seizures may eventually occur. One of the reasons that frequent blood sugar testing is essential is that some people have no overt symptoms and may be unaware that their glucose levels have dropped.

Treatment

For immediate relief of symptoms, drink some orange juice or other high sugar beverage. You can also eat some glucose tablets, hard candy or glucose gel. It’s a good idea to keep a glucagon emergency kit handy and make sure that family and friends know how to use it.

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!