DIABETES AND THE KEY ROLE OF A

PODIATRIST IN FOOT CARE

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

       If you are a Diabetic you are undoubtedly already aware of the fact that one of the more vulnerable areas you need to be concerned about is, in fact, your feet.  We are advised constantly to be aware of our feet, looking for such things as:

• Blisters, Bunions, and Bleeding Corns & Calluses.
• Color Changes in the Skin.
• Cracks and Extreme Dryness, Especially in the Heels.
• Fungus and Infection.
• Ingrown Toenails.
• Leg and Ankle Pain.
• Numbness Anywhere in the Foot, Including the Toes.
• Open and Slow-Healing Sores.
• Swelling in the Foot or Ankle.

       As you are undoubtedly aware, our Feet are but one area of the body that can be attacked by Diabetes.  Other systems and organs in “jeopardy” include, but are not limited to:

• Eyes
• Heart
• Kidneys
• Nerves

Having a Podiatrist involved in our health care is beneficial for a multitude of reasons, including but not limited to:

• Dealing with Corns, Cracks and Calluses in a safe and healthy manner.
• Lifestyle Choices:  They can explain and encourage such things as never walking barefoot  and which Sports you should pursue and/or avoid!
• Mentoring you in regard to Nerve Damage and how such problems can adversely affect you, such as making you unaware of dangerous temperatures, such as submerging your feet in water too hot to be safe.
• Suggesting proper Lotions and other foot products that will protect rather than damage your feet.

A well-informed and active Health Team is an important part of the Diabetics life, and a Podiatrist should be an integral part of that team!

If you, or someone you know, needs help in managing their Diabetes, please call AVEON HEALTH at 480-300-4663 to make an appointment with a member of our staff and allow them to escort you down the path to an improved quality of life for you and your loved ones!  One of the very special services we provide is offered by our on-staff Podiatrist.

This Blog was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

https://podiatryassociates.org/the-key-role-of-a-podiatrist-in-diabetic-foot-care/

DIABETES:  YOUR AIC SCORES AND HOW TO LOWER THEM

                      AVEON HEALTH Diabetes Experts   For those of us who “prick” our fingers daily, the results sometimes appear to be nothing more than a crap shoot.  Not only do they vary from day to day, they can even vary from morning to afternoon.  With that thought in mind, medical science has discovered that a more accurate measurement of our sugar levels to be our A1C numbers.  In simplest terms, the A1C gives a two to three month average of our sugar levels, which give a better idea as to how well we are managing our Diabetes.

One of the first issues we need to consider is how often we should have our A1C tested.  Most experts believe that twice a year is bare minimum.  A better frequency might be every three months, or four times a year.  This increased testing allow us to react should there be an increase in the A1C results.

Interpreting A1C results is not on a par with deciphering Hieroglyphics!  There is a range of scores that can be used to evaluate our average sugar levels, as indicated below: < 5.7                   Normal 5.7 – 6.4             Pre-Diabetic =/> 6.5               Diabetic As can be imagined, our goal is to lower any reading above 6.5 to a more acceptable level. Interesting enough, while the numbers indicated above represent the Diabetic Populace in “average” terms, your actual goal should be specific to you.  Factors like our age, how advanced our Diabetes is, and various other Health Conditions will enter factor into the equation as well!

Check Your Blood Sugar Levels as Your Doctor has Directed.              There are several ways that we can, in fact, strive towards the goal of lowering our A1C levels.  These include, but are not limited to:

• Eat a Balanced Died with Proper Portion Sizes.
• Follow the Diabetes Treatment Plan Your Healthcare Team Recommends.
• Start an Exercise Plan You Enjoy and Do It Regularly.
• Stick to a Regular Schedule so You Can More Easily Follow Your Healthy Diet and Lifestyle. 

One of the never-ending duties of a Diabetic is to keep track of the numbers that affect their well – being and strive diligently to keep them as low as possible.  A1C is but another one of those numbers that we need to be vigilant about.   If you, or someone you know, needs help in managing their Diabetes, please call AVEON HEALTH at 480-300-4663 to make an appointment with a member of our staff and allow them to escort you down the path to an improved quality of life for you and your loved ones!  One of the very special services we provide is offered by our on-staff Podiatrist.   This Blog was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:   https://www.everydayhealth.com/type-2-diabetes/treatment/ways-lower-your-a1c/

DIABETES:  WHY REGULAR PODIATRY?

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

While Diabetes may not be as debilitating as it once was, as Diabetics we still are “Blessed” with the probability of additional Health Problems that members of the general population do not have to be as concerned with.  Such is the case in regard to problems with our feet!  As a result, we should make sure that a Podiatrist is a member of our Health Team.  There are a number of ways they can assist with your Wellness, including but not limited to helping you deal with:

• Amputations – If foot damage cannot be repaired, the end result may very well be Amputation.
• Charcot Foot – Never Damage in the feet can lead to the weakening of the bones in your feet to the point of causing fractures and foot deformities.

• Foot Ulcers – Wounds that can occur on either the foot or toes, they can both grow larger in size and become infected.
• Nerve Damage – Known as Neuropathy, it can cause both pain and numbness in the feet.

As you can imagine, it is virtually imperative that when you meet with a Podiatrist you obtain as much advice and assistance with Foot Care as possible.  With that thought in mind, when you meet with your Podiatrist the following are a few issues you may want to discus with them:

• Foot Exams – Let them train you as to how to conduct a Foot Exam at home.
• Keeping Your Feet Healthy – Allow them to give you advice regarding ways to protect your Feet on a daily basis.
• Neuropathy – Seek comprehensive testing for Nerve Damage.
• Temperature Monitoring – Tests show that maintaining consistent Foot Temperature greatly reduce both Ulcers and Amputation.  Your Podiatrist will have suggestion as how to maintain the proper Foot Temperature.

It is understandable that if you are having problems with your feet you will want to make immediate plans to visit your Podiatrist.  Some of the major symptoms you should be looking for are:

• Bleeding Corns and Callouses.
• Dry Cracks in the skin, especially around the heel.
• Ingrown and Fungal Toenails.
• Numbness in the feet or toes.
• Open Sores on the Feet that are slow to heal.
• Pain in the Legs.
• Skin Color Changes.
• Swelling of the Foot or Ankle.

While frequenting a Podiatrist is important, there are some actions that you can take on your own to help ensure Healthy Feet.  These include, but are not limited to:

• DO NOT go Bare Foot!
• Exercise
• Have new shoes properly measured and fitted.
• Inspect Your Feet DAILY!
• NEVER try to remove Corns, Callouses or Warts by yourself.
• Schedule regular Podiatry Appointments – at least Annually!
• Wear Thick, Soft Socks – preferably without seams.

Remembering that our Feet are the Foundation of our existence (Pun only slightly intended!), it is important that we do all we can to protect them, and get as much help to do so as we possibly can!

If you, or someone you know, needs help in managing their Diabetes, please call AVEON HEALTH at 480-300-4663 to make an appointment with a member of our staff and allow them to escort you down the path to an improved quality of life for you and your loved ones!  One of the very special services we provide is offered by our on-staff Podiatrist.

This Blog was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

https://siren.care/blog/diabetes-health-need-see-podiatrist-regularly/

DIABETES AND EMBARASSING

QUESTIONS

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

I have discovered that the adage, “Old age comes with a lot of Indignities,” is, in fact, most valid!  And, as seems to be the case with just about every other aspect of life, this is magnified for those of us who are “Blessed” with Diabetes, as it is even worse!  This is especially true if you are modest, or the type of person who prefers to keep your concerns, especially your health concerns, to yourself.  While there are undoubtedly more questions than we could ever include, we trust that the ones we cover herein will benefit you in your quest to better understanding your life with Diabetes.

In each of the situations we will discuss, you can combat and counteract them by adhering to the tried and true lifestyle programs of dealing with Diabetes.  This includes, but may not be limited to: Diet Control – Maintaining an Appropriate Body Weight – Exercise – Taking Medications – Controlling Alcohol Consumption and Eliminating Smoking.  In the following over-views we may discuss additional methods as well.

1. Why are my toenails black and/or yellow? – The immediate answer is because of Onychomycosis, or Toenail Fungus.  Uncontrolled Blood Sugar frequently creates environments where fungus likes to grow, and this includes Toe Fungus.  Unfortunately, it also creates an environment where White Blood Cells are unable to ward off infection as easily.

What You Should Know:  Toenail Fungus should not be taken lightly! Per an article in the July 17 issue of International Wound Journal, patients with Onychomycosis are at a much higher risk for amputation than those without. There are medications, both oral and topical, that can be prescribed to help battle Onychomycosis.

2.  Why can’t I get an Erection? – The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases has shared that men with Diabetes are more than three times likely to have ED than men who do not.  This is true due to the fact the Diabetes compromises both nerves and circulation.

What You Should Know:  Adhering to the afore mentioned Healthy Lifestyle will go a long way to alleviate this problem.  There are, however, additional medications that can be prescribed to help with issue.

3.  Why Can’t I Make it to the Bathroom? – This one is far more prevalent than one might believe.  In fact, it is estimated that some 89% of Diabetics will face some form of Bladder Dysfunction.  The two most common are Incontinence and the frequent urge to Urinate.

What You Should Know:  The most detrimental elements to this, other than the “Embarrassment Factor,” is the fact that it can create dehydration which, in turn, leads to excessive thirst.  A weight loss program may be especially beneficial for this issue, as excessive weight can put undue pressure on the Bladder.

4.  Why do Itch … Down There: – It is quite possible that the main reason for this situation is a Yeast Infection, or overgrowth of the Candida Albican’s Fungus.  While a large percentage of women will fall victim to this at least once in their lifetime, more than four Yeast Infections per year may require aggressive treatment as it puts it into the “recurrent” category.  Inasmuch as Yeasts like moist places, the problem is magnified by the fact that Diabetics often find excess sugar appearing in the mucus of the vagina, thus feeding the Fungus.

What You Should Know:  Again, this can be battled by prescriptions for oral and/or topical medications.

5.  Why Does my Breath Smell? – This may be the result of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA).

What You Should Know:  DKA is far more of a concern than just proving to be embarrassing!  In fact, it can lead to Diabetic Coma and even Death!  As a result, if you believe you have DKA it is imperative that you make your way to your Health Provider or the Emergency Room!

   Fortunately, DKA is a rare condition in Type 2 Diabetics, but, nonetheless, one that should not be ignored!  Proper dental care should always be followed, which includes daily brushing and flossing.

We hope that this material has answered some to the questions that may have been plaguing you.  We would suggest that you put possible embarrassment and modesty aside when it comes to your health, and that if you have any questions you confer with your Health Provider to ensure that your receive the best care possible in battling your Diabetes!

If you, or someone you know, needs help in managing their Diabetes, please call AVEON HEALTH at 480-300-4663 to make an appointment with a member of our staff and allow them to escort you down the path to an improved quality of life for you and your loved ones!

This Blog was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/type-2-diabetes-live-better-guide/embarrassing-diabetes-questions/

https://www.gbmc.org/5-embarrassing-questions

DIABETES & DIET: 

THE YIN AND THE YANG

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

When it comes to the Diabetic, Diet oft time takes on the appearance of the famous Country song by Alan Jackson, “Everything I Love is Killing Me!”  Many people have declared, at one time or another, “What I need to do is make a list of everything I like to eat and then make sure I never eat it again.”  While that may not be totally correct, there are some pretty popular edibles that should be avoided, especially in access.  These include, but are not limited to:

• Dried Fruit – The Drying Process results in an uber high concentration of sugar.  For example, a cup of grapes contains 27 grams of Carbs, while a cup of raisins contains 115 grams!

• Flavored Coffe Drinks – While Coffee itself has numerous health benefits, including promoting a reduced risk of Diabetes, Flavored Coffee Drinks should actually be viewed as a Liguid Dessert!
• French Fries – Potatoes in themselves are high in Carbs, and then when you add the fact that FFs are fried in unhealthy oils you have a double whammy!

• Fruit-Flavored Yogurt – While Plain Yogurt is a healthy choice, Fruit-Flavored is not so much so!  This is true because they are loaded with both Carbs and Sugar!
• Honey, Agave Nectar and Maple Syrup – Unbeknownst to many, these “sugar substitutes” may have as much of a negative  impact on Blood Sugar as the sugars they replace!
• Sugar-Sweetened Beverages – High in both Carbs and Fructose, they should be replaced with Water, Club Soda, or unsweetened Ice Tea.

• White Bread, Pasta, and Rice – High in Carbs and low in Fiber results in high Blood Sugar levels.

As discouraging as this may appear, there is some good news when it comes to what Diabetics can safely eat.  This includes, but is not limited to:

• Apple Cider Vinegar – A surprising benefit is that ACV will actually make you feel full longer!  Combined with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, which is also good for the Diabetic’s health, provides you with a Salad Dressing that is both healthy and tasty!

• Eggs – Possessing a multitude of Health Benefits, Eggs assist in Blood Sugar Control; Eye Health, providing Protein, and helping you feel full!
• Greek Yogurt – Unlike its Fruit-Flavored cousin, Greek Yogurt is actually quite healthy, promoting good Blood Sugar Levels and even helps with Weight Management.
• Nuts – Due to the fact that they are low in Digestible Carbs and prove to be a source of Protein, Nuts are not only delicious but also help promote good health through Blood Sugar Level control.

• Strawberries – A low-sugar fruit that may even help reduce heart disease risk, Strawberries are one of the most nutritious fruits you can eat!

Inasmuch as our Health is important, Diabetics need to take the time to choose not only what is delectable, but that which is beneficial as well!

If you, or someone you know, needs help in managing their Diabetes, please call AVEON HEALTH at 480-300-4663 to make an appointment with a member of our staff and allow them to escort you down the path to an improved quality of life for you and your loved ones!

This Blog was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-to-avoid-with-diabetes

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/16-best-foods-for-diabetics#5.-Chia-Seeds

DIABETES & TECHNOLOGY:

SOME APPS TO CONSIDER!

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

Diabetes is an age old problem with some very 21^st Century weapons with which to combat it!  One of the most current tools is the development of a multitude of Apps that can be utilized in a myriad of ways for coping with Diabetes.  We have included several here and, hopefully, one or more of them will assist you as you live with you Type 2 Diabetes.

7 Minute Workout

This App is especially beneficial for those who know they need to exercise but feel that they don’t have a lot of time to devote to such activities.  Featuring a host of 7 Minute Workouts, including “7 Minute Abs” and “7 Minute Sweat.”  In many instances, there are even Instructional Videos to assist with your workout!

Big Oven

Dedicated to locating Diabetes-friendly recipes, Big Oven is especially easy to use due to its “Search Function” for new Recipes.  It is set up so you can search for specific types of Recipes, such as “Keto” or “Low Carb.”

Once a Recipe is located, it can then be added to “Favorites” and even your Grocery List.  Not only that, you can also add your own Recipes.  Using the “Scan” Function, these can be added without the need to actually type them in!

MyFitnessPal

Created as a Food Log App, it is able to assist with the logging of Calories and Macronutrients such as Carbs, Fat, and Proteins.  The App even allows you to view these in Graph Form.  If your goal is weight loss, the App is even capable of calculating how many calories you will need to achieve your goal.

mySugar

Serving as a Blood Sugar Log, it can be viewed to compare listings daily, weekly, or monthly.  An expanded version of this allows for the use of a Blue-tooth enabled Blood Glucose Meter.

ZERO FASTING TRACKER

This particular App may not be for everyone, as Fasting is not universally pursued by Diabetics.  However, if you are one of those who opt to Fast, this may be just what you are looking for.  The App serves you by letting you know when your “Fasting Time” is over.

We strongly suggest that before making Fasting a part of your Dietary Regiment you confer with your doctor for both their opinion and input.

Perhaps the most unique App is one developed by CARDIOGRAM.  Its purpose is to detect the beginning of Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes via the analysis of Heart Rate data. CARDIOGRAM’s contention is that Age, Weight, and Diet alone, or combined, cannot necessarily be used to determine the onset of Diabetes.

Johnson Hsieh, co-founder of CARDIOGRAM, shares that a high resting heart rate and a low heart-rate variability predicts who will likely develop Diabetes over a twelve year period.  In recent tests, the CARDIOGRAM App was 85% accurate.

The App has already had success in the early detection of other health issues, including but not necessarily limited to:

• High Cholesterol
• Hypertension
• Sleep Apnea

While this is certainly exciting news, we do want to point out that it is always best to be cautious when utilizing new procedures of any kind.  The key, however, is if you, or a loved one, has a propensity for Diabetes, this App may be one you will want to check out!

As we go deeper into the 21^st Century there will be more and more Technological Breakthroughs for medicine in general and Diabetes in particular.  Just as you religiously take your Meds, you should make sure that you do your best to keep up with Medical Science as they develop new ways to help you fight the Diabetic Wars!

If you, or someone you know, needs help in managing their Diabetes, please call AVEON HEALTH at 480-300-4663 to make an appointment with a member of our staff and allow them to escort you down the path to an improved quality of life for you and your loved ones!

This Blog was written, in part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/type-2-diabetes/apps-to-manage-type-2-diabetes

https://www.healthline.com/health-news/app-predict-diabetes-before-blood-sugar-levels

DIABETES AND SLEEP:

Or the Lack Thereof!

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

You have undoubtedly heard someone say, “Last night I slept like a log – when I woke up this morning I was in the fireplace!”  If you have heard that particular comment, chances are pretty good that the person with the great night’s sleep was not a Diabetic.  For, with all of the other life changes that Diabetes creates or mandates, the lack of a good night’s sleep is just another part of the tsunami of issues encountered. In fact, poor sleep can even lead to the propensity for Obesity!

There are several ways that Diabetes can affect one’s Sleeping Habits.  These include, but are not limited to:

• Certain Symptoms – dizziness, sweatiness, shakiness – can adversely affect your sleep.
• Excessive amounts of Glucose often draws water from the tissues.  This results in making you feel dehydrated, which, in turn finds one getting up frequently for sips of water.  As a result, your sleep is interrupted.
• Frequent Urination, which is often the result of High Blood Sugar Levels, can cause multiple trips to the bathroom, thus interrupting one’s sleep.

As well as the afore mentioned conditions, there are actually Sleep Disorders that are related to Diabetes.  These include, but are not necessarily limited to:

• INSOMNIA – The inability to fall and or stay asleep.
• RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME (RLS) – The desire to constantly move one’s legs.  It can include such issues as Thyroid Disorders, High Blood Glucose Levels, and Kidney Problems.  If you feel you may have RLS, it is imperative that you contact doctor immediately!
• SLEEP APNEA – Typically found in Type 2 Diabetics, SLEEP APNEA is characterized by having one’s breathing repeatedly stopping and starting.  One study showed that 86% of the participants had both Diabetes and SLEEP APNEA!

There is some good news regarding Diabetes and Sleep, however.  Following are Tips that should help you improve your night’s sleep!

1. “Black Out” your Bedroom – Even ambient light can adversely affect your sleep patterns.
2.  Change your Diet – By mid-afternoon you should eliminate:

• Caffeine laden Foods and Drinks
• “Heavy” Meals
• Spicy Foods

3.   Create “White Noise” – Often just having the sound of a fan is enough to improve Sleep.
4.   Develop a “Sleep Routine” – Though often tempted not to do so on week-ends and holidays, it is best to go to bed and get up at the same time!
5.   DON’T Smoke!!! – Smokers are four times apt not to feel rested after a night’s sleep than Non-Smokers!
6. Hog the Bed – The best prescribed way to do this is to KEEP KIDS AND PETS out of your bed!!!
7. Keep Your Bedroom Cool – The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) suggests a temperature around 65 F.
8. Make Exercise part of your Daily Routine

Aerobics seem to be especially beneficial!

9. Stop Having a “Nightcap!” – Alcohol tends to disrupt brainwaves and sleep patterns!  This results in the lack of a good night’s sleep.
10. Turn off your “Screens” an Hour Before   

Bedtime – According to the NSF, this can run the gamut from TV to Cell Phones, Computers to Video Games.  The light they emit stimulates the brain, making it more difficult to “wind down.”

As unbelievable as it may seem, adopting even one or two of these tips will improve your night’s sleep.  The key is consistency, so it is important to remember that since it takes twenty one days to create a new habit, we must be persistent when introducing these Life Changes into our routines.

If you, or someone you know, needs help in managing their Diabetes, please call AVEON HEALTH at 480-300-4663 to make an appointment with a member of our staff and allow them to escort you down the path to an improved quality of life for you and your loved ones!

This Blog was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/diabetes-and-sleep

DIABETES AND BEVERAGES

PART III

DIET SODA

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

A friend of ours, a Diabetic, was for a number of years a “Colaholic.”  When circumstances would allow it, he was a “Chain Drinker,” opening one bottle of soda before the one he was drinking was even empty!  When he was diagnosed as a Diabetic, the handwriting was on the wall and he knew he had to make some changes.  His first thought was to replace his beloved Cola with its Diet counterpart, an option many others consider.  The question is, of course, is Diet Soda a “safe” alternative and should it be readily considered as such!

Let’s start by dispelling a couple of “myths” regarding the artificial sweeteners associated with Diet Soda.  During the 1970s it was widely believed that Saccharin, one of the predominant sweeteners of the time, would create cancer.  That, however, has been disproven and Saccharin has been deemed safe.

Another “myth” is that oft times artificial sweeteners would make the body crave sugar.  Numerous studies have shown, however, that quite frequently those who consume the artificial sweeteners actually make very healthy food choices.

One concern that is a reality, however, deals with “Metabolic Syndrome.”  This is a group of risk factors that often occur together.  They can increase the risk of Stroke, Diabetes, and Heart Disease.  A recent study in DIABETES CARE found a significant link between belly fat and high Blood Sugar levels and the consumption of Diet Soda.  The study went on to say that they found a 67% increase in Type 2 Diabetes risk in those individuals who drank Diet Soda Daily.

Another study, this one in THE JOURNAL OF AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY, discovered a direct correlation between daily Diet Soda consumption and an increase of waist circumference.

Inasmuch as the decision regarding Diet Soda is, obviously, one that each individual needs to make for themselves we thought it would be best to provide a list of Pros and Cons:

PROS

• It contains fewer Carbohydrates than regular Soda.
• It curbs the sugar craving without a sugar overload.
• You are consuming fewer calories.

CONS

• It is full of possibly harmful additives.
• Long Term consumption is associated with numerous health risks, including weight gain.
• There is an increased risk of Metabolic Syndrome.
• They have no nutritional benefit.

There are, of course, several alternatives to Soda altogether.  These include, but are not limited to:

• Carbonated waters (Some are Fruit Flavored!)
• Milk
• Stevia Leaves (Put whole leaves in either your Carbonated Water or Unsweetened Tea.  These are a no-calorie sweetener that are 30-40 times as sweet as sugar!)
•  Unsweetened Tea
• Water (What nature meant for us to drink!)

We trust this information will help Cola Lovers with their quest to replace their favorite Beverage with something that they find both Palatable and Healthy!

If you, or someone you know, needs help in managing their Diabetes, please call AVEON HEALTH at 480-300-4663 to make an appointment with a member of our staff and allow them to escort you down the path to an improved quality of life for you and your loved ones!

This Blog was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes-diet-soda

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/310909#alternative-sweeteners

DIABETES AND BEVERAGES

                  PART II

                     TEA

         AVEON HEALTH

         Diabetes Experts

There is no doubt that the BEST Beverage for a Diabetic to drink, or anyone for that matter!, is water.  However, people being what they are, we tend to want something a little more-tasty to help keep us hydrated.  And, world-wide,  next to water Tea is the most highly consumed Beverage!  If, however, you are Diabetic, you may wonder how consuming a “Spot of Tea” will affect your particular condition.

In a recent study at the University of Australia in Adelaide, Dr. Peter Clifton found that polyphenols, the major Bioactive Compounds found in Black Tea, may very well, if fact, help with the struggle with Diabetes.

Conducted with data gathered from 50 countries from around the world, Dr. Clifton discovered that those countries who consumed the most Black Tea (Ireland, UK, Turkey and Russia -  in that order) tended to have the lowest incidences of Type 2 Diabetes. (In comparison, the US ranks very close to the bottom of the list in Black Tea consumption.)

As is so often the case, you can get too much of a good thing, and such may very well be the case with Tea.  The culprit?  Caffeine!

With some individuals who have Diabetes, Caffeine may adversely affect their Blood Sugar Levels and the way their body responds to Insulin.  This may happen in one of three ways:

• By Blocking the protein adenosine, which helps control Insulin production
• Can take a toll on your sleep.  Lack of sleep may lower Insulin Sensitivity.
• May raise Levels of such “stress hormones” as epinephrine, which is also known as adrenaline.  This may result in preventing cells from processing as much sugar as usual.

The obvious question becomes, of course, at what point Black Tea might become detrimental. The feeling is that 200 milligrams might be enough to affect Blood Sugar.  That represents approximately three to four cups of Black Tea.  It would appear then, that one to cups at a time would be okay.  However, as is always the case concerning a Diabetic and their Diet, it would be best to confer with your Doctor/Dietician to ensure that you are not consuming inapporopirate amounts.

If you, or someone you know, needs help in managing their Diabetes, please call AVEON HEALTH at 480-300-4663 to make an appointment with a member of our staff and allow them to escort you down the path to an improved quality of life for you and your loved ones!

This Blog was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/tea-for-diabetics

https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/diabetes-and-caffeine

DIABETES AND BEVERAGES

PART I

JUICING

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

There was a time if someone told you that a friend was “Drinking their Lunch” it probably met they were imbibing with a number of midday cocktails. Today, however, there is a new Dietary Program called Juicing, and it has nothing to do with alcohol!

To ensure that everyone understands what we are about to share, it is imperative that we all have the same understanding of what “Juicing” is. For the purpose of our article, we are going to define Juicing as: “The process by which liquid is extracted from food – usually a fruit or vegetable – separating it from the solid components.” As we go along you will notice the importance of having this understanding.

The Pros and Cons of Juicing

Pros

• Fruits and Veggies contain ‘prebiotics” which feeds the healthy bacteria in our digestive system.
• It is quicker, and often easier, to prepare juices rather than a meal.

Cons

• Many Juicing Proponents suggest that you do a “cleansing,” where you consume nothing but Juices for a designated period of time, which deprives your body of fiber that we need!
• Juicing can really play havoc with your sugar levels!
• It can be an Expensive Undertaking!

If you decide you want to be a part of the Juicing Movement, you need to remember that, when it comes to sugar/glucose content, not all fruits are created equal!

Fruits that are especially high in sugar content include:

• Cantaloupe
• Honeydew
• Mangos
• Pineapple
• Watermelon

Juicing Ingredients that may be much better to consider include:

• Berries – Blackberries; Blueberries; Raspberries; Strawberries
• Leafy Greens – Brussel Sprout; Cabbage; Chard; Collard Greens; Kale; Romaine and Spinach
• Low Sugar Fruit – Avocado; Grapefruit; Kiwi
• Low Sugar Veggies – Carrots; Celery; Cucumber; Red Pepper; Tomatoes!

If you are a Diabetic and are seriously considering trying out a Juicing Program there are two vitally important things to remember:

• Don’t make any major changes to your Diet without FIRST consulting your Physician.
• Always use the Freshest Ingredients Possible!

If you, or someone you know, needs help in managing their Diabetes, please call AVEON HEALTH at 480-300-4663 to make an appointment with a member of our staff and allow them to escort you down the path to an improved quality of life for you and your loved ones!

This Blog was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/juicing-for-diabetics

https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/blog/juicing-is-it-for-you/

https://www.goodnature.com/blog/4-great-juice-recipes-for-diabetics/