DIABETES AND VALENTINE’S DAY

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

As we narrow in on February 14^th, a paraphrased version of the most often quoted line from Alfred Lord Tennyson’s LOCKSLEY HALL immediately comes to mind:  “A young man’s fancy turns to love.”  While nature may dictate the young man’s thoughts, tradition dictates his actions.  For most of us, Valentine’s Day virtually demands that we give chocolate!  And, in Idaho they apparently take this serious, as there is reportedly a law on the books that states, “It is illegal for a man to give his sweetheart a box of candy weighing less than 50 pounds.”

It appears that fifty pounds of chocolate would indicate a lot of Love for your Sweetheart, uncles, of course, that individual is Diabetic!  I doubt that there are any laws on the statutes for “Murder by Chocolate,” but, needless to say, fifty pounds of chocolate certainly is not what a Diabetic should be Blessed with!

While none of us actually get fifty pounds of chocolate on Valentine’s Day, studies show that we do get enough to make it the most “sugary” holiday where chocolates are given.  In a study based on the GLOOKO WEB AND MOBILE APP, the following chart reflects the average Blood Sugar Levels on these holidays:

Valentine’s Day                          168mg/dl

Halloween                                    158mg/dl

Christmas Day                            140mg/dl

New Year’s Eve                          131mg/dl

The day with the lowest reading was Sept. 28 with a 70/mg/dl.

Perhaps the best way to help someone resist temptation is to help them avoid it.  With that thought in mind, here are some other gifts that might be used to show your Love for a Diabetic:

• Roses
• Jewelry
• Diabetic Themed T-Shirts
• Diabetic Themed Coffee Mugs

A real treat for most couples is to share a Valentine’s Dinner at a nice restaurant.  If you are a Diabetic and are Blessed with such an occurrence, here are a few tips to consider:

•  Forego the pre-meal bread
•  Choose appetizers that are Low on Carbs

and feature Healthy Fats

•  With your Entrée, try to avoid Pasta,

Potatoes, and Rice.

•  Don’t completely shy away from Dessert, after all it is Valentine’s Day!  It would be wise, however, to have just a sliver of that chocolate cake!

We trust that this information will allow you and your Sweetheart, to have a Happy, and Healthy!, Valentine’s Day!

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://asweetlife.org/valentines-day-gift-guide-for-people-with-diabetes/

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/892611

https://diatribe.org/diabetes-dinner-table-valentines-day-edition

DIABETES AND MEDICAL

INNOVATIONS

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

34.2 million Americans—just over 1 in 10—have diabetes. 88 million American adults—approximately 1 in 3—have prediabetes.

Feb 11, 2020

As you can see, DIABETES is a real issue in our country, and, as a result, a great deal of research is being conducted to decrease the adverse effects of this problem.  Two areas where this is especially so are in the realms of “Healing Bandages” and “Preventive Contacts.”

To most people a Blister is an inconvenience.  To a Diabetic, however, it can be downright detrimental!  In the Diabetic it can lead to an infection that might require surgery and, in the worst case scenario, amputation!  The reason is that in many instances Diabetics have lost feeling in the inflicted areas and, as a result, don’t even realize that there is an issue to deal with until it is too late!

A Research team at NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY in Illinois has developed a most unique bandage that not only “covers” the blister/wound but actually promotes healing as well!  Rather than a “strip” as most bandages we currently use are, this is applied as a liquid and then develops into a gel!

The main “ingredient” if you would, is the Protein A5G81, which actually motivates the body to heal.  As well as this beneficial property, the new bandage is less destructive when it is removed, as it does not tear away any skin, thus re-opening the wound.   To date, studies have shown that the new bandage seems to present no additional risk for cancer.  The bandage is currently awaiting approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Retinopathy is another concern that Diabetics face, and another area where much research is being conducted.  One of the major breakthroughs in this area is pretty apt to be a “glowing” contact lens that is being developed by Colin Cook, a California Institute of Technology (Cal Tech) graduate.  Cook and his team discovered that Retinopathy is often accelerated by the presence of oxygen, and that oxygen to the eye increases during sleep and the absence of light.

The new contact lens “glows” like a watch face does.  The lens is put in the eye at night, and the “light” it provides reduces the amount of oxygen, thus inhibiting and slowing down the adverse effects of Retinopathy.  It is predicted that the new lenses will last up to ten years before the “glow” dims to the point of no longer being affective.

It is important that Diabetics takes care of themselves from top to bottom, and these are just two innovations that will allow us to do just that!

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-news/bandage-may-help-wounds-for-people-with-diabetes

https://www.healthline.com/health-news/new-contact-lens-could-ease-blindness-caused-by-diabetes

DIABETES AND PREVENTION TECHNIQUES

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

There are many of us who now “suffer” from Diabetes who have, more than once, thought “I only wish I knew then what I know now.” The “then” that we refer to is when we were young, healthy, and in the category of “Pre-Diabetic.” The number in that category today is in the millions, and, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, some 90% are not aware of it! As a result, they do nothing to prevent the actual onset of Diabetes!

The question becomes, “If you aren’t aware that you are Pre-Diabetic, how can you possibly do anything about it?” There are two suggestions we have in this realm: Inasmuch as Diabetes is one of those hereditary issues, if you have a Family History of Diabetes chances are pretty good that you, too, might be plagued with them! Also, the symptoms of Pre-Diabetes are similar to those of a Diabetic, which includes, but are not limited to:

• Dry Mouth
• Excessive Thirst and Hunger
• Fatigue
• Frequent Urination

With many youths, even though they may know that they have a propensity for obtaining the disease and are even experiencing some of the symptoms, the fact remains that most will not have a proclivity to do anything about it! As a result, those of us who have already contracted Diabetes need to be proactive in mentoring our children and grandchildren to take the steps to ensure that they avoid the issues we must contend with.

The first step may very well be to have family members take the Glucose Blood Test, which requires fasting, or have hemoglobin A1C levels tested, which does not require fasting. Once the determination is made that an individual is, in fact, Pre-Diabetic there are numerous steps that can be taken that might ward off the onset of Diabetes itself. These include, but are not limited to:

• Cut Sugar and Refined Carbs from Your Diet – Studies found that people with the highest intakes of fast-digesting carbs were 40% more like to develop diabetes than those with lower intake.
• Drink Water as Your Primary Beverage – Sugary Beverages like soda and punch have been linked to an increased risk of Type I Diabetes and Latent Autoimmune Diabetes of Adults.

• Drink Coffee or Tea – Especially effective with “high” consumption, Coffee and Tea have antioxidants known as polyphenols that may help protect against Diabetes.
• Eat a High Fiber Diet – Consuming a good Fiber source at each meal can help prevent spikes in Blood Sugar and Insulin Levels, which may help reduce your risk of developing Diabetes!
• Lose Weight if you are Over-Weight – Although losing only a little weight will help you some, studies show the more weight you lose the more benefits you will enjoy!

• Minimize Your Intake of Processed Food One study showed that poor-quality diets that were high in processed foods increased the risk of Diabetes by 30%.
• Watch Portion Sizes – This is an important suggestion as it doesn’t tell us to give up any foods, but just cut down on the quantities we eat of them!

• Work Out Regularly – Self-Explanatory!!!

As you can see, many of the activities that helps with the Prevention of Diabetes are the same ones that are used to limit the adverse effects of Diabetes. The key, of course, is to convince people to participate in these activities before they actually contract 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.healthline.com/health-news/how-to-prevent-prediabetes-from-becoming-diabetes

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/prevent-diabetes#1.-Cut-Sugar-and-Refined-Carbs-From-Your-Diet

DIABETES AND SKIN CONDITIONS

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

While Diabetes may be described as a “Silent Killer,” many of its symptoms are far from hidden!  And, this is exactly the case where Skin Conditions are concerned.  In general terms, these Skin Conditions are the results of a reduced blood flow to the skin, which leads to changes in the skin’s collagens.  Since over half of the individuals with Type 2 Diabetes are plagued by Skin Issues, we should be aware of the following things to watch for:

• Changes in the skin
• Cuts or wounds that appear infected
• Cuts or wounds that are slow to heal, as these may lead to secondary infections
• Injuries or irritation to the skin surrounding Insulin Injection sites

One of the main concerns, as can be imagined, are the afore mentioned Infections.  There are two major types to be concerned about:  Bacterial and Fungal.

BACTERIAL – The two major issues in this realm are Staphylococcus (Staph) and Streptococcus (Strep).  The effects find that the areas involved are often painful and warm to the touch with swelling and redness.  This can lead to carbuncles, which may need to be lanced by a doctor.  Additional issues might include boils; styes (infections around the eyes) and even infection of the hair follicles.

FUNGAL – Appearing as areas of red, itchy, swollen skin surrounded by blistering or dry scales.  This most often manifests itself in such areas as the under the breast, in the warm folds of the skin; in the armpits; in the groin and in the corners of the mouth.

There are, unfortunately, yet other Skin Conditions that may need to be dealt with.  One of these is Digital Sclerosis, which usually affects skin on the hands, fingers, and toes.  It can be treated with lotions, moisturizers and maintaining Blood Sugar levels.

There are several ways of dealing with these Skin Conditions, including both Over the Counter and Prescription Medications.  In fact, there are even some everyday items that can help, such as applying talcum powder and/or lotions formulated for dry skin to the affected areas.  Even Aloe Vera applied to the affected areas often proves beneficial.

Though fairly rare, another Skin Condition a Diabetic may encounter are Diabetic Blisters.  Though unsightly, Diabetic Blisters are painless and normally heal on their own.  More often plaguing men than women, they most often appear on legs, feet, and toes though they also can develop on hands, fingers, and arms.

Diabetic Blisters can be treated with Antibiotic Creams or Ointments.  They are often bandaged to protect them from further problems, including the onset of infections.  Their cause is unknown, and can be best thwarted by protecting your feet by wearing both shoes and socks!

While many people encounter problems with their skin, if you encounter if any of the issues we have discussed here, it might behoove you to contact your doctor and see if, in fact, they are being influenced by the fact that you may also be battling Type 2 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:

Type 2 Diabetes And Skin Health: Conditions And Treatment | DiabetesTalk.Net

Everything You Should Know About Diabetic Blisters (healthline.com)

DIABETES AND NEW YEAR’S

RESOLUTIONS

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

Well – - – 2020 is almost over and, if you are like most of us, you will agree that it is none too soon!  Our hope, of course, is things that will get back to normal and we can resume our lives as we did before COVID-19! For those of us who spend our days in the never ending battle to control our Blood Sugar Levels, and thus our Diabetes, the two areas we undoubtedly make most of our Resolutions in are Diet and Exercise!  While we can do little to increase your resolve to actually keep your Resolutions, we can, however, give you some tools that might help you in your quest to live healthier!

For most, controlling Carb Intake is a major part of the war against Diabetes.  As a result, knowing how many carbs are actually in a food is paramount in this struggle.  To assist you with this, following is an extensive chart that reflects the Carb Count of a number of foods.  Please feel free to print these out and use as you deem prudent.  As you will note, at the end of this chart we have included some “blank spaces” to allow you to add additional foods that you might eat that are not included herein.

Knowing how many Carbs each food is “worth” is only part of the battle – - keeping track of how many you have consumed is the next step.  For that purpose we have included a DAILY CARB RECORD CHART.  You will note that there are actually two here – one partially completed and the other blank.  Again, please feel free to print this out and use it daily.  There are several Phone Apps that can also be used for this purpose, should you be one of those individuals who prefers “High Tech” to “Hard Copies” you may want to research and check these out.

You will note that there is a “Goal” for Carb Intake.  The Number we chose was “135,” which is somewhat arbitrary.  We would suggest that you confer with your Diabetes Health Team to determine what your Daily Goal should be.

DAILY CARB RECORD CHART

As you can see, our example here is not exactly a Banner Day, as our Carb Intake was nearly twice our Carb Goal!  I’m sure as you examine it more closely you can see where better choices could have been made!

DAILY CARB RECORD CHART

The next area we may want to concentrate on in the New Year is Exercise.  For those of you who have an established daily regimen the following chart will be of little value.  However, if like so many of us, you are finding it difficult to get started, this may be just the ticket!  Of the nine Exercises listed, five can be accomplished on the couch, and two others in the comfort of your living room!!!!  These Exercises will allow you to keep muscles toned and hopefully jump start you to bigger and better things!  As before, one of the Charts is partially filled in and the other blank so you can print it out for your use!

DAILY EXERCISE CHART

DAILY EXERCISE CHART

As you start your New Year, do so with enthusiasm and encouragement!  Striving to keep your Resolutions will not only help you stay physically healthy, but mentally healthy as well!  And, while we can’t stop time, we certainly can ensure that we will experience more of it with a concentrated effort to control our Blood Sugar Levels!

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!

DIABETES BLOGS

THE BEST OF 2020

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

When we decided to do a weekly Blog our Number One Priority was to provide our readers with as much beneficial information as possible! As mentioned before, we strongly believe that Knowledge is one of the key weapons in battling Diabetes, and the more of it you can get the better off you are. With that thought in mind, today we are sharing with you a host of places where you can glean more information than we could possibly share with you ourselves.

We trust that one or more of these sites will prove helpful in your daily walk, and perhaps sometimes struggle!, with Diabetes. Hopefully, after enjoying and benefitting from our Blog, someday you might forward us to the following email:

bestblogs@healthline.com.

Diabetes Self-Management – Managing diabetes doesn’t mean never indulging in foods you enjoy, which is why you’ll find over 900 diabetes-friendly recipes on this blog.

Diabetic Foodie – Anyone living with diabetes, cooking for someone with diabetes, or just in search of healthy recipes will find help at the Diabetic Foodie.

Diabetes Dad – Tom Karlya has two children with diabetes, and he’s been committed to staying educated about the condition and its best management tools since his daughter’s diagnosis in 1992.

College Diabetes Network – The College Diabetes Network is a nonprofit organization focused on helping young adults with diabetes enjoy healthy living by offering a space for peer connections and expert resources.

Insulin Nation – For the latest news regarding type 1 diabetes, Insulin Nation is a great resource.

Diabetogenic – Renza Scibilia’s writes about the ongoing challenges of living with diabetes and she does so with humor and grace.

ADCES – The Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists, or ADCES, is a professional organization committed to improving the care of those living with diabetes.

Diabetes Forecast – Diabetes Forecast (the website for the healthy living magazine of the American Diabetes Association) offers comprehensive guidance and advice for living with diabetes.

Diabetes Strong – Christel Oerum launched Diabetes Strong (originally TheFitBlog) as a platform for sharing her personal experiences as a fitness enthusiast with type 1 diabetes.

Children’s Diabetes Foundation – The Children’s Diabetes Foundation is an organization dedicated to providing patient support to children, adolescents, and young adults living with type 1 diabetes.

Hangry Woman – Founded by type 2 diabetes patient advocate Mila Clarke Buckley in 2016, Hangry Woman brings approachable resources about diabetes to both men and women.

Diabetes UK Blog – Diabetes UK Blogs — under the umbrella of the official Diabetes UK — brings first person stories of people living with diabetes. You’ll find stories of people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, along with research-based and fundraising blogs.

Gestational Diabetes UK – This blog was founded by a mom who received her own GD diagnosis and combines resources such as dealing with your diagnosis, recipes, birth preparation, life after GD, as well as a membership area for more detailed assistance.

Yoga for Diabetes – Blogger Rachel chronicles her journey with type 1 diabetes since her 2008 diagnosis and how she uses yoga as a form of healing, coping, inspiration, and disease management.

JDRF – Geared specifically for type 1 diabetes in children, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation focuses heavily on fundraising efforts aimed toward curing type 1 diabetes completely. You’ll find practical and professional resources to walk you through a new type 1 diabetes diagnosis in your child, as well as personal stories to help show you that you’re not alone in the challenges this condition can bring.

The Diabetic Journey – Brittany Gilleland, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 12, started her blog to “change the way the world views” diabetes — and she’s accomplishing just that. She shares her ongoing journey with diabetes, as well as the stories of others (and you can submit your own story too), and updates on new developments and world issues that affect those with type 1 diabetes.

We hope this list provides you with some valid suggestions as to where you can learn more about the situation you live with daily. Be not dismayed, however, for we will continue to provide you weekly with information that will help you in your quest for normalcy in a world where you have to contend with 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 from the following source:

https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/best-blogs-of-the-year#10

DIABETES AND HAVING A VERY

MERRY CHRISTMAS

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

We have decided that the months of November and December are cruel and unusual punishment for those of us who are Diabetics!  We no more than settle back into our normal routine of Carb Counting and Dessert Dodging after Thanksgiving when around the corner lurks all of the Delectable Delicacies of Christmas!  But, like veteran soldiers going out to confront the enemy in their own territory, we know that the key to success is to have a Battle Plan and to stick to it!  So, with that thought in mind, let’s take a look at a plan for the Holidays this year that will help make us Super Heroes with our families!

1.  Avoid Grazing Between Meals – Though Holiday Meals are seldom actually served on time, it is imperative that we refrain from snacking along the way as much as we can!

2. Drink Water Before your Meal – This serves two purposes:  It will battle the possibility of dehydration and help to fill you up so you won’t eat as much!

3. Plan Your Meal – Just as you shouldn’t shop when you are hungry, neither should you plan your Holiday Meal before you have eaten!  The key here, of course, is to make sensible options!  This could include:

• Turkey – A traditional meat for the Christmas Meal as well as the one at Thanksgiving, Turkey is a fine choice.  To reduce caloric intake, you might want to eat the white meat as opposed to the dark meat.
• Vegetables – Filling you plate 2/3 full of non-starchy veggies serves a multitude of purposes including caloric count and helping to fill you up, removing the temptation for seconds and or too many sweets.
• Roasted Potatoes -  This reduces the “fat content” greatly compared to mashed potatoes.
• Desserts – Tasty Desserts are always a part of the Christmas Feast, and should be! Concentrate on eating those with a minimum of fats and calories!

4.  Be Aware of Portion Sizes – Enough said!

5.  Stay Active – Though a long nap might seem most appealing as a post-meal activity, a brisk walk would be much more beneficial!

While many of us celebrate with our Christmas Meal at the home of loved ones, others fancy going to a restaurant instead.  If that is the case for you and yours, here are some tips that might prove helpful:

1.  Eat slowly, putting your knife and fork down between each bite.
2.  If you have s smaller appetite, order a “Starter” instead of a Main Course, as it will consist of less food.
3.  Remember – - Veggies and Salad are better for you than Potatoes and Gravy!
4.  Make sure you are the first to order, avoiding the temptation to say, “Ooooo, that sounds good!  I’ll have some of that, too!”

Well, that’s our suggestions to help make your Christmas a Very Merry One!

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:

Christmas and Diabetes – Managing Diabetes During Christmas (thediabetescouncil.com)

Christmas and diabetes | Diabetes UK

DIABETES:  SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

One of the reasons that Diabetes is known as one of the top ten “Silent Killers” is the fact that it can “sneak up” on us.  There is no overt pain nor immediate debilitating conditions.  That’s why it is so important that we are able to recognize it as soon as possible, in both ourselves and in loved ones.  As a result, we have decided to share a few of the more unusual Symptoms that might indicate Diabetes is on the near horizon.

1.  DARK SKIN ON THE NECK – As well as the discoloration, the skin may also feel velvety or thick.  It may also appear in the groin area or armpits.

2.  DRY MOUTH – In Diabetics this occurs because High Blood Sugar decreases saliva flow.

3.  FRUITY-SMELLING BREATH – Known as Diabetic Ketoacidosis, this often occurs when the body breaks down fat cells for energy.

4.  ITCHING – Itching occurs when Blood Sugar increases creates nerve damage, specifically in the feet and hands.

5.  LIGHTHEADEDNESS – While this may be caused by fatigue or hunger, it can also be the result of both Hypo- and Hyperglycemia.  High glucose levels can result in frequent urination which, in turn, can lead to dehydration and Light-headedness.
6.   RECURRENT INFECTIONS – As Diabetes oft times weakens your Immune System, the result can be causing increased susceptibility to disease.  The result may be increased Infections in the body, including but not limited to:

• Vaginal Infections
• Yeast Infections
• Bladder Infections
• Skin Infections

7.  VISION CHANGES – High Blood Sugar can create several Eye Issues, including but not limited to:

• Altered Fluid Levels to the Eyes
• Swelling
• Blurry Vision

There are some signs regarding Diabetes that we are, perhaps, more familiar with.  These include, but are not limited to:

1.  EXTREME THIRST – This is an early warning that you may be suffering from Diabetes.  High Blood Sugar can create Thirst on its own, and this is compounded by the fact that High Blood Sugar can also lead to frequent urination.

2.   FREQUENT URINATION – High Blood Sugar puts an “overload,” if you would, on your Kidneys which allows an over-flow into your urine.
3.   INCREASED HUNGER – Even though you eat voracious amounts of foods, you may find that you are actually losing weight, as the body is unable to absorb the energy that it needs.

It is imperative that if we note ANY of these Symptoms and Signs in ourselves, or a loved one, that we seek Medical attention immediately.  If we don’t, some really nasty things can occur, including but not limited to:

• Amputation
• Blindness
• Irreversible Nerve Damage
• Kidney Disease
• Skin Complications
• Stroke
• DEATH!!!

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://perks.optum.com/blog/7-early-signs-of-type-2-diabetes/

https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/unusual-symptoms-of-diabetes

DIABETES: MAKING SURE

YOUR TURKEY DINNER “ADDS UP”

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

For Diabetics there is, perhaps, no more bittersweet day than Thanksgiving! Set aside all of the things that we in this nation have to be thankful for; Set aside the MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE; Set aside some of the most iconic rivalries in the NFL that are played out on that day and what you have left is one of the most abundant feasts of the whole year! And there, my friend, is where the bittersweet comes in! For while we want to gorge ourselves on all of the goodies on the table, we realize that, for the most part, we really shouldn’t indulge! To help make the difficult decisions as to what should be eaten and what shouldn’t, we have taken the time to do a numbers count so you can see just how the Carbs and Calories mount up as you enjoy this most scrumptious day!!!

       ITEM                            AMT.         CARBS       CALS.

Turkey                             4 oz.              0                 54

Mashed Potatoes             1 Cup              35                214

Turkey Gravy                  ½ Cup              0                  61

Grn. Bn. Cass.                 ½ Cup             12                115

Yams w/ Marsh.              ½ Cup             24                112

Dressing                          1 Cup              22                232

Corn Chowder                1 Cup              16                250

Cranberry Jelly               ¼ Cup             25                110

Apple Pie (9”)                 1/8 Pie             42                297

Mince Pie (9”)                1/8 Pie             35                188

Pump. Pie (9”)                1/8 Pie             40                316

Whip Cream                    1 tbls.              1                   20

Cool Whip                      1 tbls.              3                   25

To total the “Carbs” and “Calories” columns above can be a little disheartening to say the very least! The key, however, is not necessarily eliminating any of the favorites mentioned above, but, rather, trying to control portion size. The same care should also be given to preparing our plates of leftovers for the days following the holiday! Do have a Happy Thanksgiving, but be sure to do all you can do to ensure that you have a Healthy one 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!

DIABETES EMERGENCY KIT

AVEON HEALTH

Diabetes Experts

2020 has proven, if nothing else!, that life can be full of surprises, and that not all of them are pleasant in nature.  As Diabetics we need to be aware of that, and, as a result, should make sure that we are as prepared for such situations as possible!  With that thought in mind, it is probably a good idea that we purchase and stock an “Emergency Kit,” if you would, that would be able to help sustain us should an event occur that would alter our normal daily routine.

PREPARING THE BAG

Like expectant parents who pack their “Hospital Bag” in advance and have it in a handy place, so should we prepare our Emergency Kits.  They don’t have to be anything extravagant, in fact a good gym bag works just fine.  It should be durable and light-weight in its own right, so as to not add any additional strain when toting it around.

PACKING THE BAG

It is here that a little thought needs to take place as, theoretically, the contents can vary dependent on the individual’s needs.  The things in our list, however, are pretty standard and probably should be included in everyone’s bag.

• An Extra Supply of Meds – We would suggest a minimum of 3-5 days-worth.
• An Extra Test Kit – Ensure that you have a goodly number of Test Strips and Lancets, as Stress can adversely effect Blood Sugar, mandating more frequent testing.
• Foot Care Products – Inasmuch as a Diabetics feet are one of their most vulnerable areas, it would be wise to make sure your bag includes a bar of soap; several soft towels and a container of Foot Lotion.
• Keep Glucose on Hand – Tablets and Gels are good, but a Glucose Pump might prove handy in extreme cases.
• Prepare a Medical History & Contact List – In the event, Heaven forbid!, that you are incapacitated where communication is concerned, these could prove invaluable to those who will be attending to you!
• Stock Snacks – Items with simple carbohydrates and sugars are especially good. This includes, but is not limited to, non-perishables such as dried fruit, dry cereal, nuts, seeds, trail mix, and/or whole-grain crackers.
• Water is a Must - Dehydration can be a problem for everyone, so having several bottles on hand is always a good idea.

As well as preparing an Emergency Kit, it might be a good idea to wear a Diabetes ID Bracelet.  Should you be incapable of explaining your condition, such a bracelet will save precious time in allowing others to administer to your immediate needs.

We would suggest that you frequently rotate some of the consumables to ensure that they are always fresh and never “outdated.”  Our hope, of course, is that no one ever needs to depend on their Emergency Kit, but we trust that you have one ready should you ever find the need for one.  If you would like more insight as to what include in your Emergency Kit, please feel free to call the experts of AVEON HEATLH at 480-300-4663.

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-care/diabetes-emergency-bag-pictures/