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The Most Important Topics Taught to a Diabetic Patient

The Most Important Topics Taught to a Diabetic Patient

Newly diagnosed diabetic patients have a lot to learn about monitoring and controlling their disease. It’s a lot to take in at one time and can be confusing, coming on top of a diagnosis that’s often unexpected. The following are the most important topics taught to a newly diagnosed diabetic patient.

No Cure

There’s no cure for diabetes, but it’s not the end of life as you know it. You’ll need to be more careful, plan ahead, and make lifestyle changes. You can still live a long, healthy and fulfilling life.

Blood Sugar Monitoring

You’ll need to learn how to test your blood sugar levels with a glucose monitor and test strips. Testing must be done at certain times. You’ll learn how to identify the signs and symptoms of low or high blood sugar levels and what to do.

Administering Insulin

Giving yourself insulin injections is often the most difficult aspect of the disease for many people. Insulin may be prescribed in a flexpen or vial. It comes in a fast and long-lasting formula, and a combination of the two – all of which are taken differently.

Medication

Insulin isn’t the only medication that diabetics may need to take. Your health provider may prescribe medication to aid in the absorption of insulin, as well as prescriptions for cholesterol and other conditions. It’s essential that you take the medication as directed, even if you begin to feel better.

Carb Intake

Sugars, carbohydrates and portion size are all factors that determine blood sugar levels and the amount of insulin needed. Diabetics should speak with a dietician to learn about eating a healthy diet and foods to eat in moderation.

Exercise

Many diabetics have their disease under control, but still experience weight gain. Exercise is necessary to avoid that from happening and minimizing the risk of heart disease and similar health problems in the future. The type of exercise isn’t as important as being active. Choose an activity you enjoy so it doesn’t feel like a chore. Swimming, rollerblading, dancing, and yoga are all good choices for those that don’t want to visit a gym.

 

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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 exercize

What Are 4 Goals of Managing Diabetes?

There are many components to managing diabetes, but four goals stand out. There are things that every diabetic should be aware of when managing the disease.

Stop Smoking

One of the little-known facts about smoking is that it raises blood glucose levels. That means larger doses of insulin are required to counteract higher sugar levels in the blood. Nicotine alters the structure of cells and makes them less responsive to insulin. Smoking aids in the creation of a condition known as insulin resistance. The body typically begins to adjust to the absence of nicotine within 3 days.

Weight Management

The first step in weight management with diabetes is eating healthy. It involves learning what to eat and drink, what to consume in moderation, and how different foods affect blood glucose levels. While vegetables are an important ingredient in a healthy diet, diabetics aren’t limited to a life of nothing but peas and carrots. However, all vegetables aren’t created equal and can drastically increase glucose levels.

Exercise

While getting more exercise will aid in weight management, it’s essential to minimize insulin resistance. The condition occurs when the body isn’t able to utilize insulin as efficiently as it should. That means weight gain due to increased blood glucose levels. Any type of regular exercise is beneficial, from walking and dancing to working out at the gym.

Take Medication

When diabetes is tightly controlled, many individuals mistakenly believe the disease has disappeared and they stop taking their medication. No medication for diabetes-related conditions should be skipped or discontinued. Diabetes can be managed with regular medication and people can minimize many of the other health risks that accompany the disease when they take their medication as prescribed. Individuals with diabetes are at a significantly increased risk of having a stroke or heart attack and chronic kidney disease. They also have an elevated risk of blindness and amputations.

 

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!

 

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 is the No. 1 Cause of Diabetes?

Contrary to popular belief, there is no single underlying cause for developing the disease.
There’s nothing that modern medicine can point to definitively as a cause. The uninformed
often cite being overweight and overeating as the causal agent, but those are effects, not the
cause.
Diabetes is a chronic disease, not a character flaw. In some instances, the pancreas stops
producing insulin. Some people develop insulin resistance, in which the body’s cells are unable
to use insulin effectively. The result is the same – an increase in blood glucose levels.
Genetics
People with a family history of diabetes are at an increased risk of developing the disease
themselves. Scientists have identified over 120 genetic markers associated with diabetes that
interfere with the body’s ability to secrete or use insulin effectively.
Viruses
Researchers are also collecting an increasing body of evidence that supports a link between
diabetes and viral infections. A viral infection can act as a trigger for the body’s immune system
to identify insulin-producing B cells as invaders. The body reacts by destroying the invader or
suppressing it.
Symptoms
The early symptoms of diabetes often go unnoticed and are only detected during routine
blood work. People feel tired and have no energy, leading to a reduction in physical activity that
in turn leads in weight gain.
Multiple Types
There isn’t just one type of the disease. There are multiple classifications.
 Type 1 – The pancreas produces no insulin or insufficient amounts
 Type 2 – The body doesn’t utilize insulin effectively
 Gestational – It occurs during pregnancy when blood glucose levels are elevated, but
not to diabetic levels, and typically disappears after delivery
 Pre diabetes – Elevated blood glucose levels are detected, but not high enough to be
diagnosed as diabetes
No Cure
There’s no cure for diabetes, though the disease can be monitored, managed and controlled. It
won’t magically disappear with healthy nutrition and more exercise. Many people, even

doctors, use the word remission in connection with the disease. Diabetes doesn’t go into
remission. What they really mean is that It can be tightly and rigidly controlled to the point
where medications can be reduced or eliminated, but the disease is always there.

 

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’s the Most Important Topic to Teach Diabetic Patients?

A diagnosis of diabetes can be frightening. Many individuals hear little of what their doctor tells
them after the diagnosis. Of all the new information that diabetic patients need to understand,
nutrition is the most important.
Eating Habits
Proper nutrition directly affects how individuals manage the disease and they often need to
alter their eating habits. However, it’s important to understand that anyone can develop the
disease, even those that eat conservatively. Diabetics need to understand what to eat, portion
size, and how to manage carbohydrates. Carbs are a form of sugar that will create a spike in
blood sugar levels and make management even more difficult.
Meal Times
Regular testing of glucose levels and exercise are important elements of diabetes management,
but so is nutrition. Learning how to eat well entails more than simply eliminating certain foods,
counting carbs, and eating bland meals. For many people, it’s a major lifestyle change and it can
be even more difficult for those with few monetary resources.
Nutrition education teaches individuals how to prepare tasty meals that are healthy and won’t
create spikes in blood glucose levels. Individuals learn what foods are high in carbohydrates and
the appropriate portion sizes to consume. Those lessons are especially important so individuals
don’t feel deprived and are tempted to indulge in detrimental foods.
Future Health
Nutrition education is an investment in future health and well being. It’s effective for mitigating
the effects of cholesterol, high blood pressure and heart disease for which diabetics are at high
risk. Unfortunately, nutrition education is a topic that typically only receives cursory attention.
In other instances, individuals may not have the skills to prepare healthy meals that are also
appealing. Some forward-thinking healthcare facilities understand this and offer cooking classes
to help get diabetics started on their new journey to health. Nutrition education gives people
the knowledge they need to manage the disease effectively for a long and healthy life.

 

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 4 Goals of Managing Diabetes?

There’s far more to managing diabetes than just testing glucose levels regularly and
administering insulin when needed. People that don’t have the disease are unaware of the
many choices and changes that diabetics must make each day to be healthy and reduce the risk
of a variety of serious health problems. There are 4 goals in managing diabetes, all of which are
designed to help people live longer lives.
Healthy Food
Eating a healthy diet and consuming the proper portion sizes are critical to mitigate the risk of
high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels and heart disease – to name a few. The foods
that diabetics eat and the beverages they consume can literally make the difference in life and
death.
Healthy Weight
Diabetics that maintain a healthy weight have more energy, feel less tired, experience fewer
infections, and heal faster. Proper nutrition is an element in maintaining a healthy weight and
even losing weight.
Move More
When individuals follow proper nutrition and maintain a healthy weight, they’re better able to
move and engage in activities they enjoy. No one has to spend hours at the gym to move and
get more exercise. Nor do they have to perform activities they don’t like. Diabetics should
choose to engage in things they enjoy such as gardening, dancing or horseback riding.
Take Medication
One of the 4 primary goals of managing diabetes is taking prescribed medication as directed.
Some people are tempted to skip or stop medications because they feel good. Exercise, proper
nutrition, maintaining a proper weight and taking medications are all part of effective diabetes
management.
Staying Healthy
Attaining those 4 goals will help in mitigating health-related problems associated with diabetes
that includes the pain and tingling of neuropathy and going blind. It will help protect against
developing kidney disease, teeth problems, and gum disease, along with heart disease, high
blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol levels for a longer life.

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 the Three Key Management of Diabetes?

People with diabetes have multiple health concerns that must be managed and controlled.
However, there are 3 key elements that individuals need to focus on when they have the
disease.
Glucose and A1C
Regular testing of blood glucose levels is essential. It tells individuals their current blood sugar
levels. If glucose levels are too low, they need to eat something to increase those levels or
administer insulin to lower blood sugar.
Equally important is obtaining regular A1C testing. It’s a measure of how well an individual is
managing their glucose levels. The test provides a record that spans the previous 3 months and
shows how well glucose levels are being managed. A1C is utilized by doctors to create or
maintain a treatment plan.
Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is also known as hypertension. Diabetes causes a degenerative cascading
effect that begins with the kidneys. The disease scars the kidneys and impairs function. They
don’t filter waste and toxins from the body efficiently.
As kidney function suffers, it results in salt and water retention that causes high blood pressure.
Diabetes causes blood vessel walls to stiffen and harden over time. Blood vessels don’t work as
efficiently at moving blood through the body.
Cholesterol
Elevated cholesterol levels and high blood pressure are inextricably linked. High blood pressure
occurs when an individual has too many lipids – “bad” fats – in their blood. If too many lipids are
present, they can’t be eliminated from the body. Lipids build up in arteries to form plaque that
narrows the pathway for blood to circulate.
Testing is Crucial
The only way for individuals to know if they have high blood pressure and cholesterol build up
is testing. Both conditions often progress for years without any obvious signs or symptoms.
When detected early, any problems with blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol can be
treated successfully.

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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diabetic diets

What’s New in Medication for Weight Management?

One of the myriads of factors for people with diabetes is losing weight. Diabetes medications can
lead to weight gain, even for people that don’t have a sedentary lifestyle. There are some new
medications on the market designed to help diabetics improve their blood glucose levels, but
they also come with some disadvantages.

Of special interest are the medications Ozempic® and Wegovy™. Both drugs are injectables that
are self-administered at home once per week. The medications vary widely in price. People
taking the medications feel fuller, eat less and have fewer sugar cravings. Both drugs are
manufactured by Novo Nordisk.

Cost and Insurance
The cost of Ozempic® and Wegovy can range from $1,200 to $2,500 per year without insurance.
The drugs aren’t covered by all health insurance plans and there are no generic versions. When
individuals can’t afford to continue the medications due to the cost, they regain the lost weight
within a year of stopping the medication.

Ozempic®
The drug has been highly prescribed for diabetes management. However, in a society that’s
obsessed with attaining the slimmest silhouette possible, promotion as a weight loss drug by
celebrities and social media influencers has resulted in limited supplies for diabetics. Ozempic®
wasn’t designed for cosmetic weight loss.

Wegovy™
Hailed as a major breakthrough in the battle against weight gain, Wegovy™ has been highly
effective. Clinical trials showed an average weight loss of 15 percent by those taking it.

Issues
The cost of the medications places them out of reach for a large portion of the population for
which they were developed and need them most. For individuals that can’t afford the
medications, the manufacturer recommends exercise, and diet control, and suggests individuals
explore other weight loss options with their doctor.

While highly effective, the drugs must be taken indefinitely to maintain weight loss. Side effects
of the medications can include heartburn, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and vomiting. In
tests, rats showed an increase in thyroid cancer on the drug.

 

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 Often Should a Blood Glucose Meter Be Replaced?

Blood glucose meters are a critical device for those with diabetes. Through testing a small blood
sample, the meters enable those with the disease to monitor their glucose levels as part of their
management regimen. A glucose meter can last for 10 years and more.

From meter manufacturers to doctors, the decision on when to replace a glucose meter varies, and for
different reasons.

The typical recommendation by manufacturers for replacing a meter is every 4 to 5 years.
They’re financially motivated for individuals to do so. Doctors usually advise the same schedule
so patients can take advantage of technological advances. Companies that supply diabetes
supplies take a different approach – replace the meter when it loses accuracy.

Control Solution
Manufacturers recommend using a brand specific control solution any time a new meter or vial
of test strips is used to ensure the device or strips are functioning properly.

Blood Problems
Test strips are very particular when it comes to a blood sample. It’s possible to have an
insufficient amount or an overabundance of blood on the test strip. Either situation can result
in an inaccurate reading. Inaccuracies can also occur if an individual is anemic or dehydrated.

Fluctuations
Anyone that begins to experience glucose readings that are unusual, fluctuate from their norm,
or are otherwise out of the ordinary should replace their meter. Alternately, performing a new
control solution test may pinpoint whether it’s the test strip or meter that’s faulty.

Advanced Technology
Glucose meter technology has advanced significantly, with features that make it much easier
and more convenient to monitor glucose levels. Those improvements alone may be enough to
encourage getting a replacement meter.

Depending on the monitor, they can include
Bluetooth® technology and online tracking of glucose levels, along with alerts and blood sugar
readings that are read aloud. It’s a feature that’s particularly beneficial for those with vision
loss, a common problem for diabetics.

 

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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test strip accuracy

Are Glucose Monitors Accurate?

Blood glucose meters provide individuals with diabetes a means of measuring sugar levels in
the bloodstream. The readings tell diabetics if they need to administer insulin or eat something
to increase their levels. When used correctly, the monitors are accurate, but as with all devices,
some are more accurate than others and a number of factors can affect the reading.

Individuals don’t have to spend an enormous amount of money to obtain an accurate glucose
meter. According to testing by The Diabetes Council, the following 10 meters received the
highest marks for accuracy, cost, features, and ease of use.

 Contour Net EZ
 Accu-Check Aviva Connect
 Walmart ReliOn Confirm
 OneTouch Verio
 Abbott FreeStyle Light
 Walgreen True2Go
 OneTouch Ultra 2
 Livongo Health In Touch
 Nova Max Plus
 Accu-Check Smartview

Test Strips
One of the things that can affect test results is the test strip used to obtain a blood sample. Test
strips past their expiration date is the most common problem. Inaccuracies can also occur if
they’re exposed to high heat, cold or humidity. Test strips are monitor specific and won’t work
in other monitor brands.

Foreign Substances
Dirt, alcohol and other substances can alter readings. It’s important that individuals wash their
hands before testing and thoroughly dry them. Never use hand sanitizer prior to testing as it
contains alcohol.

Batteries
A weak battery or a test strip that’s not inserted into the meter completely can result in
incorrect or error readings.

Blood, Anemia & Dehydration

A test strip must have a sufficient amount of blood applied to obtain a reading. An insufficient
sample won’t produce reliable results. Testing from sites other than a fingertip can also
produce a faulty reading.

Dehydration is a major problem for diabetics. It affects red blood cells that in turn can alter
accuracy. Anemia will also affect result reliability.

 

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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Can Diabetes Lead to Bone Problems?

Along with high blood pressure, heart disease and neuropathy, people with diabetes are at a
higher risk of bone and joint-related disorders. In many instances, the problems can’t be linked
to a specific cause. The following are some disorders of which diabetics should be aware.

Charcot Joint
Primarily affecting the feet, this occurs when a joint disintegrates due to nerve damage.
Symptoms can include numbness and tingling in joints, along with redness, warmth and
swelling. Joints may also become deformed or unstable. When detected early, progression can
be slowed with orthotics.

DISH
Also known as Forestier disease, it causes hardening of ligaments and tendons anywhere in the
body. Symptoms are pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. The disease is treated with
corticosteroid injections and pain relievers.

Dupuytren’s Contracture
It’s a deformity that causes one or more fingers to bend toward the palm of the hand due to
scarring and thickening of connective tissues. Skin in the palm may become thickened and
fingers won’t straighten. Treatment can include steroid injections, minimally invasive needle
therapy or surgery.

Frozen Shoulder
The condition results in pain and limited motion in the shoulder. Treatment includes physical
therapy, home exercise and glucocorticoid injections.

Limited Joint Mobility
It typically affects the small joints of the hands. It causes stiffness, palm skin becomes thickened
and waxy, and joint mobility is eventually limited. It may not be reversable, but physical therapy
and increased glucose control can help.

Osteoarthritis
A degenerative joint disease, it weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures. Joints
become stiff, swollen and painful. Joint movement and flexibility are limited. Pain medication,
physical therapy, massage and acupuncture, even surgery may be prescribed.

Osteoporosis
Bones throughout the body become weak, brittle and break easily. Advanced osteoporosis can
result in stooped or hunched posture and loss of height. It’s treated with a diet rich in calcium
and vitamin D, or supplements if required, along with weight bearing exercise. Medications are
available to reduce bone loss.

 

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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