A by-product of fat breakdown is ketone production, which is toxic to the body. This complication is known as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and can lead to illness or even death. Ketones accumulate in the blood and can be recognized in the blood about 2-4 hours prior to appearing in urine. This makes a blood test more accurate than a urine test to detect ketone levels.
Since 1990, type 2 diabetes has doubled in the children/adolescents population. What is more alarming is much of the obesity, type 2 diabetes, early onset of cardiovascular disease and other child health issues IS PREVENTABLE. Here are my recommendations.
Hypoglycemia is also known as low blood sugar... Blood sugar that is too low can lead to coma or death and is considered a medical emergency. You should treat low blood sugar AS SOON AS you suspect you have it. The best way to raise your blood sugar is to use glucose tablets. Glucose tablets are made from dextrose, a simple sugar. Glucose tablets are easy to carry and are the quickest to be absorbed.
According to the American Diabetes Association, a great number of people with pre-diabetes become diabetic within 10 years after the initial pre-diabetes diagnosis. Here are some pre-diabetes facts and recommendations to lower your risk, or the risk of loved ones, of developing diabetes.
Carry all of your diabetic supplies, including your glucose meter, with you. Your diabetic supplies are sensitive to heat, light and humidity. Medications can also be sensitive to these conditions. Always carry glucose tabs and a food snack consisting of protein and carbohydrates. Peanut butter and an apple, or cheese and whole-wheat crackers are convenient options. This will help you avoid hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can make you weak for hours if not treated promptly. This will help you feel your best and have energy to enjoy your vacation.
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends people with diabetes maintain a blood pressure level less than 130/80. Did you know that two out of three people with diabetes have high blood pressure?
Since I first wrote “Nurse Robbie Busts 5 Diabetes Myths,” I continue to hear confusion about diabetes and diabetes management when I work with patients. Here are 5 more […]
To continue our exploration of diabetes and heart health during American Heart Month, I would like to introduce you to pulse oximetry, also known as “pulse ox.” In a nutshell, pulse oximetry devices measure how much oxygen is in your blood. Low oxygen saturation (hypoxemia) in blood can impede body function and harm vital tissues, resulting […]
My birthday is this month. A few years ago, I decided to give myself the best birthday present: an annual physical exam. Since I always remember my birthday (whether I want to or not), I always remember to visit my doctor and get my check up, including tests.
My birthday gift to you is to send you […]
I have been educating people with diabetes for two decades and I continue to be amazed at how many myths are still prevalent, so, I want to set the record straight on what I consider […]