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rising cost of diabetes

The Many Faces of Diabetes

For many years, the medical profession only recognized 3 types of diabetes – Type 1, Type 2 and gestational. The cost of the disease and increase in people diagnosed with diabetes has spurred new research. Many researchers are making a case for adding 2 additional types of the disease for a total of 5 and giving it different classifications due to the many potential stages and causes.

Surprising Findings

The classification of the disease hasn’t been updated in over 20 years. New technology and research have led to unique findings. Genetics, a family history and lifestyle remain factors in the development of the disease, but the medical community now knows that diabetes can also result from viral infections and the natural aging process.

New Classifications

The new diabetes designations would be grouped according to the following clusters:

Group 1 – Severe autoimmune diabetes (SAID), now known as Type 1

Group 2 – Severe insulin deficient diabetes (SIDD), similar to Type 1 diabetes

Group 3 – Severe insulin resistant diabetes (SIRD) in which the body doesn’t respond properly to its own insulin

Group 4 – Mild obesity-related diabetes (MOD)

Group 5 – Mild age-related diabetes (MARD)

Better Care

Diabetes is a complex and complicated disease that can even be confusing to those that have lived with it for decades. Researchers and those in the medical community believe the new classifications will provide more accurate quality of care and treatment options.

Changing Public Perceptions

The new diabetes classifications also have the potential to change the public’s perception of people with diabetes. Many in society don’t view diabetes as the disease that it is and diabetes shaming is common. Diabetics are often perceived as lazy and encouraged to “just eat less” and diabetes will “go away.”

No one wants to be diabetic or chooses to have the disease. Diabetes doesn’t disappear or go into remission. However, it can be tightly monitored and managed through diet, exercise and medication.

We Buy Unused Diabetic Test Strips and Supplies

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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Diabetics Find Relief from High Insulin Costs

Since Jan. 1, 2023, people with diabetes have received a break on the cost of their insulin, due to the Affordable Insulin Now Act, part of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). That same reduction in price took effect for Medicare recipients on July 1, 2023. The Act capped insulin prices at $35 per monthly prescription, whether individuals had insurance or not. For many people with the disease, that means greater flexibility in their budget, no more trips to Canada to purchase insulin, and an end to rationing their essential medication.

The Act benefits everyone with the disease, whether they have traditional healthcare insurance, Medicare, or no insurance coverage at all. It benefits approximately 1.5 million Medicare recipients. That amounts to an average savings of $735 per month in Part D costs per person and an overall savings of $27 million in Medicare Part B expenses. The price cap applies to all insulin.

A Gift to the World

Insulin was discovered in 1921 by Sir Frederick G. Banting, Charles H. Best and JJR Macleod. James B. Collip developed the process to purify it. The work was founded on the hypothesis of British scientist Edward Albert Sharpey-Shafer

Banting, Best and Collip sold their patent for $1 each. Banting stated that it was meant to be a gift to the world, with access given to anyone who needed it.

A Gift no Longer

Insulin didn’t remain a gift to the world for long. The pharmaceutical company to which the patent was sold, quickly transformed the life-giving medication into a money-making machine that’s earned the pharmaceutical industry trillions of dollars over the years. The cost became prohibitive, potentially endangering the lives of those who couldn’t afford it.

A Return to the People

The Affordable Insulin Now Act is a step in the right direction for the more than 5 million people in Florida alone that have diabetes and rely on the medication every day. After 100 years, insulin is making its way back to the people in an affordable way.

We Buy Unused Diabetic Test Strips and Supplies

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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6 Legitimate Ways to Earn Extra Money Online

Inflation has issued a major hit to the budgets of everyone. The cost of everything has dramatically increased and many individuals are seeking legitimate ways to put some extra cash in their pocket, preferably from the comfort and convenience of their home. The following are some easy ways to earn extra money online. An added advantage is that it allows people the flexibility to work the hours they want.

Sell Your Test Strips

Companies buy diabetic test strips and resell them at a discount to those who are underinsured, uninsured, low-income, and on fixed incomes. Major brands are eligible, as long as they weren’t paid for by a government-based healthcare program. The strips must be new, unopened, and have a long expiration date. The companies pay for all postage costs.

Be a Virtual Tutor

Now is a great time to become a virtual tutor. Many children are struggling due to the pandemic and need assistance in maintaining grade level skills.

Sell Your Extra Photos

Marketers, bloggers and websites are always in need of creative, high-quality stock photos. You can post your images to companies that resell them for you or sell your rights to them. Some of the best sites are Dreamstime and iStock. Other companies include 123RF, Adobe Stock, Foap, Getty Images, and Alamy in Britain. You might also consider opening a storefront on Etsy.

Translate Text

Companies, non-profit organizations and even governments need people to translate everything from marketing materials to educational materials. Individuals fluent in Arabic, Dutch, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, and Spanish are especially needed.

Be an Interpreter

American sign language (ASL) interpreters are in very high demand. The specialists are often utilized to create videos from home of scripted messages for companies, non-profit organizations and marketers.

Enter the Gig Economy

People worldwide are selling their writing, programming, voice over, graphic arts, and musical skills online through orders called gigs. One of the best-known platforms is Fiverr, with an extensive list of services offered by freelancers.

We Buy Unused Diabetic Test Strips and Supplies

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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Am I Still at Risk with the COVID Resurgence?

COVID-19 is making a resurgence across the nation. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Florida is seeing a 22 percent increase in infections, with a daily average of 479 new cases. While COVID-19 will be circulating far into the future, there’s currently no indication that people with diabetes are at a greater risk of contracting the virus than last year. The primary reason for this is that 70 percent of the total Floridian population has availed themselves of the vaccine. The danger from the virus for diabetics in South Florida is from complications due to morbidities associated with the disease. People with diabetes are at no greater risk of contracting any one of the many COVID variants than a year ago.

Keys to Staying Well

The pathway to staying well and out of the hospital from the virus or any other illness is multi-faceted. A stringent regimen of testing and a healthy diet to manage and control blood glucose levels are important every day. Those two elements help the body stay healthy and better able to combat any type of illness.

Exercise and Medication

Exercise is an important aspect of managing diabetes and controlling insulin resistance. One of the major mistakes people make is assuming that exercise means long hours at the gym. Exercise can be any activity that a person enjoys and gets them moving.

It’s also important to take all medications as directed. Many people begin to feel better and discontinue their medicine. Others may have difficulty affording their medications and test strips.

Help with Test Strips

Test strips are expensive and one of the largest monthly costs for diabetics. Sell Your Test Strips buys a number of test strip brands and resells them at a discount to individuals that are uninsured or underinsured. The service is just one way that individuals can help manage their disease affordably.

We Buy Unused Diabetic Test Strips and Supplies

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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Swollen Feet from Diabetes: Treatment Options

Diabetes affects your entire body and many people with the disease experience swollen feet. The disease affects circulation throughout the body and is often most evident in the extremities. Poor circulation to the feet, along with ankles and lower legs, results in a buildup of fluid in tissues. It’s a condition known as edema. The good news is that the condition can be reversed if caught in the early stages.

Medication

Pioglitazone and rosiglitazone are the two prescription medications typically used to address swelling of the extremities. The dosage will depend on the individual and the extent to which swelling has progressed.

Limit Salt

High levels of salt in the body promotes water retention. Purchase no-salt or low-salt foods whenever possible. Snacks and foods such as chips, crackers, chili, and frozen foods such as frozen entrees, pizza and burritos all have high salt content. Stay away from canned meat, along with those that are smoked or cured.

Compression Socks

Available over the counter, compression socks aid in controlling swelling. They should be put on before getting out of bed when the legs and feet are elevated, as blood has already circulated to the feet, ankles and legs. They’re available in attractive styles and patterns, but the primary objective is finding the right fit. Socks that are too tight will impair circulation, while socks that are too loose will move around and bunch.

Elevate the Leg

Elevating the leg above the level of the heart when seated promotes circulation. A pillow, stool or other device can be used. A recliner footrest is equally appropriate if it rises to the desired height.

Hydration and Exercise

It may seem counter-productive, but hydration is essential to help alleviate swelling. When the body doesn’t receive enough hydration, it tends to retain fluids. Exercise promotes blood circulation. Choose an activity you enjoy doing. Exercise doesn’t have to be unpleasant or onerous.

We Buy Unused Diabetic Test Strips and Supplies

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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diabetes exercize

Can Wegovy® Help You Lose Weight?

Developed to aid in diabetes management and control, Wegovy® does result in weight loss. It works by supressing appetite so you’ll eat less. It emulates a hormone called GLP-1 that the body release after you eat. It also slows down the movement of food through the digestive system so you’ll feel fuller longer.

Wegovy® was created by Novo Nordisk, a Danish pharmaceutical company. The drug was successful in its goal and it quickly became known as simply a weight loss medication. It was so popular among those seeking to lose weight that many pharmacies are now encountering shortages. There are a number of things you need to know about Wegovy® before consulting with your physician.

Eligibility Guidelines

The injectable medication is only available by prescription. It’s for adults with

  • Obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater

  • Those who are overweight with a BMI of 27 or greater who have weight-related medical conditions

  • Those diagnosed as pre-diabetic

  • People with Type 2 diabetes

It must be used with a low-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

It’s Not Magic

Effects aren’t immediate. If you’re expecting to see pounds “melt off” as many weight loss medications claim, you’re going to be disappointed. Wegovy® weight loss will be evident over time, with most seeing effects at the 3 month mark. You’ll typically be prescribed a low-dose of Wegovy® and monitored to determine how you tolerate the drug.

Side Effects

As with any prescription medication, Wegovy® has the potential for side effects, the most common of which are nausea and stomach pain. It can also result in vomiting – eating too much or drinking too much alcohol can make vomiting worse. Some people taking Wegovy® have lost muscle mass, experienced diarrhea or constipation, headache, dizziness, bloating and belching, and stomach flu-like symptoms. People that stop taking the medication after they’ve attained their weight goal will typically gain the weight back.

We Buy Unused Diabetic Test Strips and Supplies

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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Does Hot Weather Make Your Blood Sugar go Low?

Hot weather does affect blood sugar levels. It increases the risk of low blood glucose levels, known as hypoglycemia. It’s especially dangerous for those taking medications to lower blood sugar levels such as insulin. Your metabolism is higher in hot and humid weather, causing insulin to be absorbed quicker.

Much will depend upon how well hydrated you are and your activity level. Conversely, if you’re being physically active and not staying hydrated, your glucose levels can increase. Managing diabetes in hot weather is a balancing act and requires additional vigilance in extremely hot weather conditions.

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

The body sweats to cool itself. If you have nerve damage, it can also affect your sweat glands and your ability to sweat properly. This result in heat exhaustion or heat stroke, two very serious conditions that can require hospitalization.

Damage to Insulin and Testing Supplies

Test strips use enzymes and chemicals to test blood sugar levels. Exposure to high heat can damage them, resulting in false readings. The same is true for glucose meters that can be damaged in the high temperatures that come with summer. Insulin must also be maintained at certain temperatures or it degrades and loses efficacy.

Dehydration

When you’re dehydrated, a hormone called vasopressin is released. It tells the kidneys to retain water. This makes it more difficult for the body to regulate insulin usage. As more water is consumed, you’ll urinate more frequently, but you’ll still feel thirsty.

The Takeaway

Hot and humid weather can make your blood glucose levels rise or decrease, depending on what you’ve eaten, hydration, physical activity, and if you have nerve damage. It’s difficult enough to manage your blood sugar levels in optimal conditions and summer weather can make it a more difficult task, especially if the disease isn’t tightly controlled. However, with proper precautions, no one with diabetes has to miss out on summer fun.

We Buy Unused Diabetic Test Strips and Supplies

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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How to Use a Continuous Glucose Monitor

A continuous glucose monitor (CGM) has changed the lives of an untold number of diabetics. The systems have enabled individuals to gain better control over the disease, manage it more effectively, and aid in mitigating many of the healthcare concerns associated with diabetes.

A CGM is a prescription only medical device. Some healthcare insurance providers will pay for the device, others won’t, and individuals may need to meet specific eligibility requirements It can take some time to learn how to use it, but it is effective in gaining better control of diabetes.

Sensors and Fewer Finger Pricks

A continuous glucose monitor uses a sticky patch that adheres to the skin. It has tiny sensors that penetrate just below the surface of the skin to monitor glucose levels 24/7. The patch is also equipped with a transmitter that sends readings wirelessly to a cell phone, wearable or handheld device, or insulin pump to tell people what their glucose level is at any given time.

Depending on the manufacturer, the transmitter may or may not be reuseable. Diabetics will need to learn how to apply the sensor, calibrate the device (for some models), and transfer data to their computer or cell phone for analytics if desired.

Eliminates Unpredictability

Diabetes creates highs and lows in blood glucose levels, making it difficult to control and requiring multiple testing throughout the day. Each individual reacts differently to the foods they eat, which can make control challenging. A CGM helps diabetics know how different foods affect their glucose levels.

Multiple Devices and Features

Several companies manufacture CGMs and they all work in a similar manner. The sensor patch needs to be changed periodically and the frequency will depend on the manufacturer, usually every 7 to 14 days. CGMs may have a variety of features, such as downloading data to share it with their healthcare provider.

We Buy Unused Diabetic Test Strips and Supplies

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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Eating Well for Diabetes

Eating healthy for diabetes simply means eating healthy foods. doing so in moderation, and consuming those that don’t create spikes in blood glucose levels. However, healthy eating does require an understanding of the foods that offer the best benefits, and careful monitoring of blood sugar levels. You can create your own diabetic meal plans to suit yourself or choose from among the many companies that provide premade meal designed specifically for diabetics.

Fruits, Grains and Vegetables

A diabetic diet relies heavily on fruits, grains and vegetables. It provides the body with required nutrients, helps prevent weight gain, and controls blood glucose levels.

Healthy Carbs

Carbohydrates that digest slowly have a low glycemic index. They include a wide range of fruits packed in water and with no added sugars. Raw fruits low in sugar include blackberries, cantaloupe, grapefruit, kiwi, peaches, raspberries, strawberries, and watermelon.

Fiber Rich Foods

Foods containing fiber help keep the digestive tract in optimal working condition. Fiber rich foods include apples, bran-based cereals, beans, broccoli, brown rice, cauliflower, green peas, nuts, pears, quinoa, and whole grains.

Essential Nutrients

Adding vegetables to any diet provides essential vitamins and minerals the body needs for a variety of processes. They also contain antioxidants. The darker the color, the healthier and higher the level of antioxidants. They encompass Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, spinach, tomatoes, and green leafy vegetables, along with kidney, black and pinto beans.

Dairy

A variety of dairy products provide calcium for strong bones. Choose low-fat milk, yogurt and cottage cheese.

Meat, Fish, Poultry

Fish is the best choice, but the white meat of chicken and the dark meat of turkey are equally beneficial. Select lean, non-fatty cuts of meat, fish and poultry

Regular Meals

Eating at regular intervals is essential to maintain energy and avoid spikes in blood sugar levels. Meal times can be set to meet individual schedules.

We Buy Unused Diabetic Test Strips and Supplies

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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What are Some of the Warning Signs of Oncoming Diabetes?

Many of the early signs of impending diabetes, often called pre-diabetes, are silent, go unnoticed, or are attributed to other factors. Some people go for years without being diagnosed. However, there are some warning signs of which everyone should be cognizant, even those without a family history of the disease or have a genetic component.

Diabetes is more prevalent in some demographics than others. They include African-Americans (12.1%) Hispanic/Latin populations (11.8%), and Native Americans/Alaska Natives (14.5 %), though it can occur in anyone. Some Pacific Islanders and Asian-Americans also have an increased risk at (9.5%).

Increased Thirst

The body attempts to eradicate elevated sugar levels through the kidneys. This requires more water, resulting in increased thirst.

Increased Urination

As the kidneys call for increased liquid intake to remove excess sugar from the blood stream, more frequent urination is experienced.

Feeling Very Hungry

Insufficient insulin in the body means individuals don’t use the food they eat efficiently for energy. They often feel hungry and increased food intake can lead to weight gain.

Extreme Fatigue

Insulin converts food to energy for the body to use in everyday activities. Insufficient insulin levels interfere with that process, making people feel tired and fatigued.

Blurry Vision

Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to optical nerves, leading to blurry vision and the potential for future blindness.

Pain, Tingling, Numbness

Known as diabetic neuropathy, diabetes damages nerves that results in pain, tingling and numbness in the hands and feet.

Slow Healing

Damage to blood vessels impedes the flow of blood, inhibiting the body’s ability to deliver nutrients to wounds and injuries, resulting in slower healing.

Darkened Skin

Some people experience darkening of the skin, particularly on the neck, in the armpits, and the groin area.

Weight Gain/Loss

The body produces insulin to convert food to energy as fuel for everyday activities. When sufficient insulin isn’t present, food can turn to weight gain.
Conversely, the body begins to use body fat for fuel, which causes weight loss. Known as ketoacidosis, it’s a dangerous condition in which the blood becomes acidic.
 

We Buy Unused Diabetic Test Strips and Supplies

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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