Diabetes symptoms care cause & treatment info!!!

An Overview of Diabetes Prevention

Nick — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 10:02:49 +0000

Although people with diabetes can prevent or delay complications by keeping blood glucose levels close to normal, preventing or delaying the development of type 2 diabetes in the first place is even better. Losing a small amount of weight, by getting 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week and eating healthy, will help in preventing diabetes. To get started, use these tips for ideas on moving more, eating healthier, and tracking your progress.

Tips for Eating Healthier

The following tips are designed to help you make healthier eating choices:

Place less food on your plate.
Keep meat, poultry, and fish servings to about 3 ounces (about the size of a deck of cards).
Make less food look like more by serving your meal on a salad or breakfast plate.
Try not to snack while cooking or cleaning the kitchen.
Try to eat sensible meals and snacks at regular times throughout the day.
Make sure you eat breakfast every day.
Enjoy a heart-healthy diet.
Use broth and cured meats (smoked turkey and turkey bacon) in small amounts. They are high in sodium. Low-sodium broths are available in cans and powder.
Share your desserts.
When eating out, have a big vegetable salad, then split an entrée with a friend or have the other half wrapped to go.
Stir fry, broil, or bake with non-stick spray or low-sodium broth, and try to cook with less oil and butter.
Drink a glass of water or other “no-calorie” beverage 10 minutes before your meal to take the edge off your appetite.
Select the healthier choice at fast food restaurants. Try grilled chicken instead of the cheeseburger. Skip the French fries or replace the fries with a salad.
Listen to music while you eat instead of watching TV (people tend to eat more while watching TV).
It takes 20 minutes for your stomach to send a signal to your brain that you’re full. Eat slowly.
Eat a small meal.
Teaspoons, salad forks, or child-size utensils may help you take smaller bites and eat less.
You don’t have to cut out the foods you love to eat. Just cut down on your portion size and eat them less often.

Make Healthy Food Choices

The following tips can help you make healthier food choices:

Snack on veggies.
Try getting at least one new fruit or vegetable every time you shop for groceries.
Cook with a variety of spices instead of salt.
Always keep a healthy snack with you.
Choose veggie toppings like spinach, broccoli, and peppers for your pizza.
Try different recipes for baking or broiling meat, chicken, and fish.
Try to choose foods with little or no added sugar.
Try keeping a written record of what you eat for a week. It can help you see when you tend to overeat or eat foods high in fat or calories.
Don’t shop for groceries on an empty stomach, and make a list before you go.
Read food labels. Choose foods with lower fat, saturated fat, calories, and salt.
Fruits are colorful and make a welcoming centerpiece for any table. Have a nice chat while sharing a bowl of fruit with family and friends.
Slow down at snack time. Eating a bag of low-fat popcorn takes longer than eating a slice of cake. Peel and eat an orange instead of drinking orange juice.

Nurture Your Mind, Body, and Soul

The following tips can help you find balance as you strive to be healthy:

Don’t try to change your entire way of eating and exercising all at once. Try one new activity or food a week.
Find mellow ways to relax — try deep breathing, take an easy-paced walk, or enjoy your favorite easy listening music.
Give yourself daily “pampering time” and honor this time like any other appointment you make, whether it’s spending time reading a book, taking a long bath, or meditating.
Try not to eat out of boredom or frustration. If you’re not hungry, do something else.
Honor your health as your most precious gift.

Treating Diabetes: An Overview

Nick — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:58:27 +0000

Too much glucose (sugar) in the blood for a long time can cause diabetes. This high blood glucose (also called blood sugar) can damage many parts of the body, such as the:

* Heart
* Blood vessels
* Eyes
* Kidneys.

Heart and blood vessel disease can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

Therefore, diabetes treatment is aimed at keeping blood glucose levels as close to the normal range as safely possible. Studies have shown that doing this reduces the risk of developing major complications associated with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Self-Management of Diabetes Treatment

Self-management is a key component of treating diabetes. This refers to the ongoing process of managing the condition. This includes:

* Planning meals
* Planning physical activity
* Monitoring blood glucose
* Taking diabetes medication
* Handling episodes of illness and of low and high blood glucose
* Managing diabetes when traveling.

The person with diabetes designs his or her own self-management treatment plan in consultation with a variety of healthcare professionals, such as:

* Doctors
* Nurses
* Dietitians
* Pharmacists.

Treating Type 1 Diabetes

Before the discovery of insulin in 1921, everyone with type 1 diabetes died within a few years after diagnosis. Although insulin is not considered a cure, its discovery was the first major breakthrough in diabetes treatment.

Today, treatment for type 1 diabetes includes:

* Healthy eating
* Physical activity
* Taking insulin through injection or an insulin pump.

The amount of insulin must be balanced with food intake and daily activities. Blood glucose levels must be closely monitored through frequent testing.

Type 2 Diabetes Treatment

Treatment for this type of diabetes includes:

* Healthy living
* Physical activity
* Blood glucose testing.

In addition, many people with type 2 diabetes require oral medication, insulin, or both to control their blood glucose levels (see Diabetes Drugs).

Daily Treatment

People with diabetes must take responsibility for their day-to-day care. Much of the daily care involves keeping blood glucose levels from getting too low or too high. When blood glucose levels drop too low — a condition known as hypoglycemia — a person can become:

* Nervous
* Shaky
* Confused.

Judgment can be impaired, and, if blood glucose falls too low, fainting can occur. A person can also become ill if blood glucose levels rise too high, a condition known as hyperglycemia.

Daily diabetes treatment includes:

* Following the healthy eating plan (diabetes diet) that you and your doctor or dietitian have created.
* Engaging in physical activity for a total of 30 minutes most days. Ask your doctor which activities are best for you.
*
Taking your medicines at the same time each day.
* Checking your blood glucose every day. Each time you check your blood glucose, write the number in your record book.
* Checking your feet every day for cuts, blisters, sores, swelling, redness, or sore toenails.
* Brushing and flossing your teeth and gums every day.
* Quitting smoking (or not starting in the first place).

Diabetes Supplements: An Overview

Nick — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:57:54 +0000

Many different supplements for diabetes are on the market today that claim to provide a benefit. Some people use these supplements as complementary or alternative treatments for diabetes in addition to their standard diabetes treatment. This includes herbal medicines.

Although some supplements may be effective, others can be ineffective or even harmful.

People who use diabetes supplements need to let their healthcare providers know what they are doing.

This article focuses on several supplements that people try when looking for alternative diabetes medications, including:

* Alpha-lipoic acid
* Ginseng
* Vanadium
* Garlic
* Omega-3 fatty acids
* Chromium
* Coenzyme Q10
* Magnesium.

There is limited scientific evidence on the effectiveness of dietary supplements as alternative treatments for diabetes. The evidence that is available is not sufficiently strong enough to prove that any supplements or herbal remedies for diabetes discussed in this article have benefits for type 2 diabetes or its associated complications. A possible exception may be the use of omega-3 fatty acids to lower triglyceride levels.

If you decide to use supplements for diabetes, you should know that what you see on the label may not accurately reflect what is in the bottle. Some herbal supplements, for example, have been found to be contaminated; some tests of herbal supplements have found that the contents did not match the labeled dose on the bottle.

What Are Dietary Supplements?

Dietary supplements were defined in a law passed by Congress in 1994. These are products (other than tobacco) intended to supplement the diet that contain one or more of the following:

* Vitamins
* Minerals
* Herbs or other botanicals
* Amino acids
* Any combination of these ingredients.

Dietary supplements are intended to be taken in the following forms:

* Tablet
* Capsule
* Powder
* Softgel
* Gelcap
* Liquid.

These supplements are not represented for use as a conventional food or as a sole item of a meal or the diet. In addition, they must be labeled as being a dietary supplement.

Other important information about dietary supplements includes the following:

* Dietary supplements are regulated as foods, not drugs, so there could be quality issues in the manufacturing process.

* These supplements can interact with prescribed or over-the-counter medicines and other supplements.

* “Natural” does not necessarily mean “safe” or “effective.”

* Consult your healthcare provider before starting a dietary supplement, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, or considering giving a supplement to a child.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA; also known as lipoic acid or thioctic acid) is a chemical that is similar to a vitamin. This diabetes supplement is an antioxidant — a substance that prevents cell damage caused by substances called free radicals in a process called oxidative stress. High levels of blood glucose are one cause of oxidative stress.

ALA is found in foods such as:

* Liver
* Potatoes
* Spinach
* Broccoli.

ALA can also be created in the laboratory. ALA supplements are marketed as tablets or capsules. It is theorized that ALA may be beneficial for diabetes because of its antioxidant activity.

Research Findings on Alpha-Lipoic Acid

The evidence on ALA as an effective supplement for type 2 diabetes and obesity is limited. A number of small studies have shown hints of beneficial effects. In a few of these studies, some possible benefit from ALA was seen in:

* Weight loss
* Glucose uptake in muscle
* Sensitivity of the body to insulin
* Diabetic neuropathy.

More research is needed to document whether there is any benefit of ALA in diabetes and to better understand how it works.

Side Effects and Possible Risks of Alpha-Lipoic Acid

While ALA appears to be safe for the general adult population, people with diabetes need to know that taking ALA supplements for diabetes might lower blood sugar too much, and thus they would need to monitor their blood sugar level carefully.

ALA may also:

* Lower blood levels of minerals, such as iron
* Decrease the effectiveness of some anti-cancer drugs
* Interact with some medicines, such as antacids.

Other possible side effects of ALA include headache, skin rash, and stomach upset.

Ginseng

Several types of plants are referred to as ginseng, but most studies on ginseng and diabetes have used American ginseng. Those studies have shown some glucose-lowering effects in fasting and post-prandial (after-meal) blood glucose levels, as well as in A1c levels (average blood glucose levels over a three-month period).

Larger and more long-term diabetes research studies are needed before doctors recommend using this diabetes supplement. Researchers also have determined that the amount of glucose-lowering compound in ginseng plants varies widely.

Vanadium

Vanadium is a compound found in tiny amounts in plants and animals. Early studies showed that this supplement normalized blood glucose levels in animals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. A recent study found that when people with diabetes were given vanadium, they developed a modest increase in insulin sensitivity and were able to decrease their insulin requirements.

Diabetes research scientists want to:

* Understand how this supplement works in the body
* Discover potential side effects
* Establish safe dosages.

Garlic

Garlic (Allium sativum) is an herb used to flavor food. It can also be processed and made into dietary supplements. Garlic is used for medicinal purposes in some cultures. The chemical in garlic of most interest for health purposes is allicin, which gives garlic its strong taste and odor.

One of the claims for garlic is that the rates of certain diseases are lower in countries where a great deal of garlic is consumed. However, it has not been proven that this possible diabetes supplement (and not lifestyle or some other factor) is the reason.

Research Findings on Garlic

Few rigorous studies have been conducted on allicin or garlic for type 2 diabetes. Findings so far have been mixed in the research studies that have been done. Some basic scientific studies suggest that garlic has some biological activities that are relevant to the treatment of diabetes. However, scientific evidence so far does not verify that there is any benefit from this as a supplement for diabetes.

Side Effects and Other Risks of Garlic

Garlic is safe for most adults. However, it appears to interact with various types of drugs. For example, when combined with certain medicines used to treat HIV/AIDS (saquinavir and NNRTIs), garlic may decrease their effectiveness. Garlic may also interact with and affect the action of:

* Medications that are broken down by the liver
* Blood thinners (including warfarin)
* Cyclosporine
* Birth control pills.

Other possible side effects of garlic include:

* Stomach disorders
* An odor on the breath or skin
* Diarrhea
* Skin rash
* An allergic reaction.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3s for short) are a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids that come from food such as:

* Fish
* Fish oil
* Wheat germ
* Walnuts
* Certain dietary supplements
* Some vegetable oils (primarily canola and soybean oil).

As possible natural remedies for diabetes, omega-3s are marketed as capsules or oils, often as fish oil.

Omega-3s are important in several bodily functions, including:

* Moving calcium and other substances in and out of cells
* Digestion
* Fertility
* Growth
* Cell division
* Blood clotting
* Relaxation and contraction of muscles.

Omega-3s have been the subject of much attention in recent years because of studies finding they may be useful for such purposes as:

* Lowering triglyceride levels
* Decreasing the rate of heart disease
* Reducing inflammation.

Some countries and organizations have issued formal recommendations on the intake of omega-3s through:

* Meals
* Oils
* Supplementation.

Omega-3s have mainly been of interest as diabetes supplements because having the condition increases a person’s risk for heart disease and stroke.

Research Findings on Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Randomized clinical trials have found that omega-3 supplementation reduces the incidence of cardiovascular disease and events, such as heart attack and stroke, and slows down the progression of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). However, these studies were not done in populations that were at higher risk, such as those with type 2 diabetes.

There is somewhat more literature available on omega-3 supplementation as a possible remedy for diabetes than for most other alternative treatments for this condition. The Cochrane Collaboration published a 2001 analysis of 18 randomized placebo-controlled trials on fish oil supplementation in type 2 diabetes. The authors found that fish oil lowered triglycerides and raised LDL cholesterol, but had no significant effect on fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, total cholesterol, or HDL cholesterol. (The authors did not identify and include studies with cardiovascular outcomes, but noted that this is an area for further research.)

In 2004, another analysis was published by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality of 18 studies on omega-3 fatty acids for a number of measurable outcomes in type 2 diabetes. This study confirmed virtually all the Cochrane authors’ findings, except for finding no significant effect on LDL cholesterol.

Additional studies are needed to determine whether omega-3 supplements are safe and beneficial for heart problems in people with type 2 diabetes. Studies that look specifically at heart disease outcomes in this population are needed.

Side Effects and Possible Risks of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s appear to be safe for most adults at low to moderate doses. Some safety questions have been raised about fish oil supplements because certain species of fish can be contaminated with substances from the environment, like:

* Mercury
* PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls)
* Pesticides.

Fish oil is on the list of food substances that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers “generally recognized as safe.” How well a product is prepared is another factor for consumers to consider.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take fish oil supplements. Fish oil in high doses can possibly interact with, and affect the action of, certain medications, including blood-thinning drugs and drugs for high blood pressure.

Potential side effects of fish oil include:

* Belching
* Stomach disturbances
* Nausea
* A fishy aftertaste.

Chromium

The benefit of added chromium as an alternative diabetes treatment has been studied and debated for years. Several studies report that chromium supplementation may improve diabetes control. Chromium is needed to make glucose tolerance factor, which helps insulin improve its action. Currently, there is insufficient information on the use of chromium in the treatment of diabetes, so no recommendations for diabetes supplementation yet exist.

Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral. Foods high in magnesium include:

* Green, leafy vegetables
* Nuts
* Seeds
* Some whole grains.

Various magnesium supplements are marketed as tablets, capsules, or liquids.

Although the relationship between magnesium supplementation and diabetes has been studied for decades, it is not yet fully understood. Studies suggest that a deficiency in magnesium may negatively affect blood glucose control in type 2 diabetes. Scientists believe that such a deficiency interrupts insulin secretion in the pancreas and increases insulin resistance in the body’s tissues. Evidence suggests that a deficiency also may contribute to certain diabetes complications. A recent analysis showed that people with higher dietary intakes of magnesium (through consumption of whole grains, nuts, and green, leafy vegetables) had a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes.

Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10, often referred to as CoQ10 (other names include ubiquinone and ubiquinol) is a vitamin-like substance. It helps cells make energy and acts as an antioxidant. Meats and seafood contain small amounts of CoQ10. As a diabetes supplement, CoQ10 is marketed as tablets and capsules.

Research on Coenzyme Q10

There have been few studies on CoQ10 and type 2 diabetes so far. The evidence is not sufficient to evaluate CoQ10’s effectiveness as an alternative treatment for diabetes. It has not been shown to affect blood glucose control. In theory, it might have use against heart disease in people with diabetes, but well-designed studies looking at heart disease outcomes are needed to answer this question.

Side Effects and Other Risks Associated With Coenzyme Q10

CoQ10 appears to be safe for most of the adult population. However, it may interact with and affect the action of some medicines, including warfarin (a blood thinner) and medicines used for high blood pressure or cancer chemotherapy.

Other possible side effects of CoQ10 include:

* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Loss of appetite
* Heartburn.

Diabetes Supplements: Final Thoughts

It is important to not replace scientifically proven diabetes treatments with supplements that are unproven. The consequences of not following one’s prescribed medical regimen for diabetes can be serious, perhaps even life-threatening.

To ensure a safe and coordinated course of care, people should inform their healthcare providers about any supplements for diabetes that they are currently using or considering. Prescribed medicines for diabetes and all other major health conditions may need to be adjusted if a person is also using supplements. Pharmacists can provide information about supplements as well.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or people who are considering using diabetes supplements to treat a child, should use extra caution and be sure to consult their healthcare provider before doing do.

If people with diabetes decide to use supplements and notice any unusual effects, they should stop taking these products immediately and contact their healthcare provider.

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Herbal Medicine for Diabetes: An Overview

Nick — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:49:58 +0000

Some people with diabetes consider using alternative treatments for diabetes, including herbal medicine. Although some types of herbal medicine may be effective, others can be ineffective or even harmful. Patients who use herbal remedies for diabetes need to let their healthcare providers know what they are doing.

This article focuses on a couple of herbal medicines for diabetes, including:

* Ginseng
* Garlic.

In addition to these examples of herbal medicines, other alternative treatments for diabetes involve:

* Vanadium
* Omega-3 fatty acids
* Chromium
* Coenzyme Q10
* Magnesium.

Overall, there is limited scientific evidence on the effectiveness of treating diabetes with herbal medicines. And the evidence that is available is not sufficiently strong to prove that any of the herbal medicines discussed in this article have benefits for type 2 diabetes or its complications.

Also, if you decide to use herbal medicine for diabetes, keep in mind that what you see on the label may not accurately reflect what is in the bottle. Some herbal supplements, for example, have been found to be contaminated; some tests of herbal supplements have found that the contents did not match the labeled dose on the bottle.

Ginseng

While several types of plants are referred to as ginseng, most studies on ginseng and diabetes have used American ginseng. Those studies have shown some glucose-lowering effects in fasting and post-prandial (after meal) blood glucose levels as well as in A1c levels (average blood glucose levels over a 3-month period).

However, larger and more long-term diabetes research studies are needed before doctors recommend using this herbal medicine for diabetes. Researchers also have determined that the amount of glucose-lowering compound in ginseng plants varies widely.

Garlic

Garlic (Allium sativum) is an herb used to flavor food. Garlic can also be processed and made into dietary supplements. In some cultures, garlic is used for medicinal purposes. The chemical in garlic of most interest for health purposes is allicin, which gives garlic its strong taste and odor. One of the claims for garlic is that the rates of certain diseases are lower in countries where more garlic is consumed. However, it has not been proven that this herb (and not some other factor, such as lifestyle) is the reason.

Research Findings on Garlic

Few rigorous studies have been conducted on garlic and allicin for type 2 diabetes. In the diabetes research studies that have been done, findings have been mixed. There are some studies that suggest that garlic has some biological activities that are relevant to the treatment of diabetes. However, the evidence so far does not support the belief that there is a benefit from this herbal remedy for diabetes.

Side Effects and Other Risks With Garlic

Garlic is safe for most adults. However, garlic appears to interact with various types of drugs. For example, when combined with certain medicines used to treat HIV/AIDS (NNRTIs and saquinavir), garlic may decrease their effectiveness. Garlic may also interact with and affect the action of:

* Cyclosporine
* Birth control pills
* Blood thinners (including warfarin)
* Medications that are broken down by the liver.

Other possible side effects of garlic include:

* Diarrhea
* Skin rash
* Stomach disorders
* An allergic reaction
* An odor on the breath or skin.

Final Thoughts on Treating Diabetes With Herbal Medicine

Do not replace scientifically proven diabetes treatments with an herbal medication that is unproven. The consequences of not following one’s prescribed medical regimen for diabetes can be serious, even life-threatening.

People should inform their healthcare providers about any herbal medicine that they are currently using or considering. This will help ensure a safe, coordinated course of care. Prescribed medicines for diabetes and all other major health conditions may need to be adjusted if a person is also using herbal medicine for diabetes. Pharmacists can be another helpful source of information about herbal supplements.

Women who are pregnant or nursing (or people considering using herbal remedies to treat a child) should use extra caution and be sure to consult their healthcare provider.

If people with diabetes decide to use herbal medicine and notice any unusual effects, they should stop and contact their healthcare provider right away.

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Diabetes and Exercise: An Overview

Nick — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:42:50 +0000

Diabetes means that your blood glucose (also called blood sugar) is too high. Your body uses glucose for energy, but having too much in your blood can hurt you. When you take care of your diabetes, you’ll feel better. If you effectively manage your condition, you’ll reduce your risk for problems with your:

* Kidneys
* Eyes
* Nerves
* Feet and legs
* Teeth.

You’ll also lower your risk for a heart attack or a stroke.

You can take care of your diabetes by:

* Being physically active
* Following a healthy meal plan
* Taking diabetes medication (if your doctor prescribes them).

Impact of Exercise on Diabetes

Research has shown that in people with diabetes, exercise can:

* Lower blood glucose and blood pressure
* Lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL)
* Improve the body’s ability to use insulin
* Lower the risk for heart disease and stroke
* Keep the heart and bones strong
* Keep the joints flexible
* Lower the risk of falling
* Help with weight loss
* Reduce body fat
* Provide more energy
* Reduce stress.

If you do not have diabetes and exercise regularly, you can reduce or prevent type 2 diabetes. A major government study showed that a healthy diet and a moderate exercise program resulting in a 5 percent to 7 percent weight loss can delay and possibly prevent type 2 diabetes.

Types of Exercise for People With Diabetes

Four kinds of activity can help people with diabetes. You can try:

* Being extra active every day
* Doing aerobic exercise
* Doing strength training
* Stretching.

Being Extra Active Every Day

Being extra active can increase the number of calories you burn. There are many ways to be extra active:

* Walk around while you talk on the phone.
* Play with the kids.
* Take the dog for a walk.
* Get up to change the TV channel instead of using the remote control.
* Work in the garden or rake leaves.
* Clean the house.
* Wash the car.
* Stretch out your chores. For example, make two trips to take the laundry downstairs instead of one.
* Park at the far end of the shopping center lot and walk to the store.
* At the grocery store, walk down every aisle.
* At work, walk over to see a co-worker instead of calling or e-mailing.
* Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
* Stretch or walk around instead of taking a coffee break and eating.
* During your lunch break, walk to the post office or do other errands.

Aerobic Exercise

Aerobic exercise is activity that requires the use of large muscles and makes your heart beat faster. You will also breathe harder during aerobic exercise. Doing such exercise for 30 minutes a day, most days of the week, provides many benefits. You can even split up those 30 minutes into several parts. For example, you can take three brisk 10-minute walks, one after each meal.

If you haven’t exercised lately, see your doctor first to make sure it’s OK for you to increase your level of physical activity. Talk with your doctor about how to warm up and stretch before exercise and how to cool down afterwards. Then start slowly with 5 to 10 minutes a day. Add a little more time each week, aiming for 150 to 200 minutes per week. Try:

* Walking briskly
* Hiking
* Climbing stairs
* Swimming or taking a water-aerobics class
* Dancing
* Riding a bicycle outdoors or a stationary bicycle indoors
* Taking an aerobics class
* Playing basketball, volleyball, or other sports
* In-line skating, ice skating, or skateboarding
* Playing tennis
* Cross-country skiing.

Strength Training

Doing exercises with hand weights, elastic bands, or weight machines two or three times a week builds muscle. When you have more muscle and less fat, you’ll burn more calories because muscle burns more calories than fat, even between exercise sessions. Strength training can help:

* Make daily chores easier
* Improve your balance and coordination
* Make your bones healthier.

You can do strength training at home, at a fitness center, or in a class. Your healthcare team can tell you more about strength training and what kind is best for you.

Stretching

Stretching can help:

* Increase flexibility
* Lower stress
* Prevent muscle soreness after other types of exercise.

Your healthcare team can tell you what kind of stretching is best for you.

What Time of Day Is Best?

Ask your healthcare team about the best time of day for you to exercise. In deciding when to exercise, it is important to consider your:

* Daily schedule
* Meal plan
* Diabetes medications.

If you have diabetes and exercise when your blood glucose is above 300, your blood glucose can go even higher. It’s best not to exercise until your blood glucose is lower. Also, exercise is not recommended if your fasting blood glucose is above 250 and you have ketones in your urine.

What Exercises Should I Not Do?

If you experience complications of diabetes, some exercises can make your problems worse. For example, activities that increase the pressure in the blood vessels of your eyes — such as lifting heavy weights — can make diabetic eye problems worse. If nerve damage from diabetes has made your feet numb, your doctor may suggest that you try swimming instead of walking for aerobic exercise.

Numbness means that you may not feel any pain from sores or blisters on your feet and so may not notice them. Then they can get worse and lead to more serious problems. Make sure you exercise in cotton socks and comfortable shoes that are designed for the activity you are doing. After you exercise, check your feet for:

* Cuts
* Sores
* Bumps
* Redness.

Call your doctor if any foot problems develop.

Diabetes and Exercise: Dealing With Hypoglycemia

Physical activity can cause hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) in people who take insulin or certain diabetes pills, including sulfonylureas and meglitinides. Ask your healthcare team whether your diabetes medication can cause hypoglycemia; some types do not.

Hypoglycemia can strike while you exercise, right afterward, or even up to a day later. It can make you feel:

* Shaky
* Weak
* Confused
* Irritable
* Hungry
* Tired.

You may sweat a lot or get a headache. If your blood glucose drops too low, you could pass out or have a seizure. However, you should still be physically active.

There are things you can to help you be prepared for hypoglycemia before exercise, during exercise, and after exercise.

Before Exercise

Things you can do before exercising that can help you be prepared for hypoglycemia include:

* Be careful about exercising if you have skipped a recent meal. Check your blood glucose. If it’s below 100, have a small snack.

* If you take insulin, ask your healthcare team whether you should change your dosage before you exercise.

During Exercise

While you’re exercising:

* Wear your medical identification or other ID.
* Always carry food or glucose tablets so that you’ll be ready to treat hypoglycemia.
* Check your blood glucose at regular intervals if you’ll be exercising for more than an hour. You may need snacks before you finish.

After Exercise

After you’ve finished exercising, check to see how exercise has affected your blood glucose level. If your blood glucose is 70 or lower, have one of the following right away:

* 2 or 3 glucose tablets
* 1/2 cup (4 ounces) of any fruit juice
* 1/2 cup (4 ounces) of a regular (not diet) soft drink
* 1 cup (8 ounces) of milk
* 5 or 6 pieces of hard candy
* 1 or 2 teaspoons of sugar or honey.

After 15 minutes, check your blood glucose again. If it’s still too low, have another serving. Repeat until your blood glucose is 70 or higher. If it will be an hour or more before your next meal, have a snack as well.

Getting Started

Always talk with your doctor before you start a new physical activity program. Ask about your medications — prescription and over-the-counter — and whether you should change the amount you take before you exercise. Be sure to ask which types of physical activity are safe for you if you have:

* Heart disease
* Kidney disease
* Eye problems
* Foot problems.

If you have diabetes and exercise, decide exactly what you’ll do and set some goals. Choose:

* The type of physical activity you want to do
* The clothes and items you’ll need to get ready
* The days and times you’ll add activity
* The length of each session
* Your warm-up and cool-down plan for each session
* Alternatives, such as where you’ll walk if the weather is bad
* Your measures of progress.

Here are some other things you might do as you begin an exercise program:

* Find an exercise buddy. Many people find that they are more likely to do something active if a friend joins them. If you and a friend plan to walk together, for example, you may be more likely to do it.

* Keep track of your physical activity. Write down when you exercise and for how long in your blood glucose record book. You’ll be able to track your progress and to see how physical activity affects your blood glucose.

* Decide how you’ll reward yourself. Do something nice for yourself when you reach your activity goals. For example, treat yourself to a movie or buy a new plant for the garden.

Staying Active

One of the keys to staying on track is finding some activities you like to do. If you keep finding excuses not to exercise, think about why. Are your goals realistic? Do you need a change in activity? Would another time be more convenient? Keep trying until you find a routine that works for you. Once you make physical activity a habit, you’ll wonder how you lived without it.

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Natural Remedies for Diabetes: Coenzyme Q10

Nick — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:31:53 +0000

Research Findings on Coenzyme Q10

There have been few studies on CoQ10 and type 2 diabetes so far. The evidence is not sufficient to evaluate CoQ10’s effectiveness as a natural remedy for diabetes. CoQ10 has not been shown to affect blood glucose control. In theory, it might have use against heart disease in people with diabetes, but well-designed studies looking at heart disease outcomes are needed to answer this question.

Side Effects and Other Risks With Coenzyme Q10

Other possible side effects of CoQ10 include:

* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Loss of appetite
* Heartburn.

Garlic as a Natural Diabetes Remedy

Garlic (Allium sativum) is an herb used to flavor food. It can also be processed and made into dietary supplements. In some cultures, garlic is used for medicinal purposes. The chemical in garlic of most interest for health purposes is allicin, which gives garlic its strong taste and odor. One of the claims for garlic is that the rates of certain diseases are lower in countries where lots of garlic is consumed. However, it has not been proven that garlic (and not some other factor, such as lifestyle) is the reason.

Research Findings on Garlic

Few rigorous studies have been conducted on garlic, allicin, or both for type 2 diabetes. In the diabetes research studies that have been done, findings have been mixed. There are some intriguing basic science studies that suggest that garlic has some biological activities that are relevant to the treatment of diabetes. However, the evidence so far does not support that there is any benefit.

Side Effects and Other Risks With Garlic

Garlic is safe for most adults. However, it appears to interact with various types of drugs. For example, when combined with certain medicines used to treat HIV/AIDS (NNRTIs and saquinavir), garlic may decrease their effectiveness. Garlic may also interact with and affect the action of:

* Birth control pills
* Cyclosporine
* Medications that are broken down by the liver
* Blood thinners (including warfarin).

Other possible side effects of garlic include:

* An odor on the breath or skin
* An allergic reaction
* Stomach disorders
* Diarrhea
* Skin rash.

Natural Remedies for Diabetes: Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral. Foods high in magnesium include:

* Green, leafy vegetables
* Nuts
* Seeds
* Some whole grains.

Various supplemental forms of magnesium are marketed as tablets, capsules, or liquids.

Magnesium has many important functions in the body, including in:

* The heart
* Nerves
* Muscles
* Bones
* The handling of glucose
* Making proteins.

Low levels of magnesium are commonly seen in people with diabetes. Scientists have studied the relationship between magnesium and diabetes for a long time, but it is not yet fully understood.

Research Findings on Magnesium

There have been a handful of studies on magnesium and type 2 diabetes — many of them small in size and/or short in length, and primarily looking at blood glucose control. The results have been mixed, with most finding that magnesium did not affect blood glucose control. Some studies have suggested that low magnesium levels may make glucose control worse in type 2 diabetes (interrupting insulin secretion in the pancreas and increasing insulin resistance) and contribute to diabetes complications. There is evidence that magnesium supplementation may be helpful for insulin resistance. Additional controlled studies are needed to establish firmly whether magnesium supplements have any role or benefit as an alternative treatment for type 2 diabetes.

Side Effects and Other Risks With Magnesium

Magnesium supplements appear to be safe for most adults at low doses.

High doses can be unsafe and cause such problems as:

* Nausea
* Diarrhea
* Loss of appetite
* Muscle weakness
* Difficulty breathing
* Extremely low blood pressure
* Irregular heart rate
* Confusion.

Magnesium can interact with and affect the action of certain drugs, including:

* Some antibiotics
* Drugs to prevent osteoporosis
* Certain high blood pressure medicines (namely, calcium channel blockers)
* Muscle relaxants
* Diuretics (“water pills”).

Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids a Natural Remedy for Diabetes?

Omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3s for short) are a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids that come from food sources such as:

* Fish
* Fish oil
* Some vegetable oils (primarily canola and soybean)
* Walnuts
* Wheat germ
* Certain other dietary supplements.

As possible natural diabetes remedies, omega-3s are marketed as capsules or oils, often as fish oil.

Omega-3s are important in a number of bodily functions, including:

* Moving calcium and other substances in and out of cells
* Relaxation and contraction of muscles
* Blood clotting
* Digestion
* Fertility
* Cell division
* Growth.

Omega-3s have been the subject of much media attention in recent years because of studies finding that they may be useful for such purposes as:

* Decreasing the rate of heart disease
* Reducing inflammation
* Lowering triglyceride levels.

Some countries and organizations have issued formal recommendations on the intake of omega-3s through meals, oils, and possibly supplementation. Omega-3s have been of interest as natural remedies for diabetes, primarily because having diabetes increases a person’s risk for heart disease and stroke.

Research Findings on Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Randomized clinical trials have found that omega-3 supplementation reduces the incidence of cardiovascular disease and events (such as heart attack and stroke) and slows the progression of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). However, these studies were not done in populations that were at higher risk, such as those with type 2 diabetes.

With regard to studies on omega-3 supplementation as a possible natural remedy for diabetes, there is somewhat more literature available than for most other alternative treatments for this condition. A 2001 analysis was published by the Cochrane Collaboration of 18 randomized placebo-controlled trials on fish oil supplementation in type 2 diabetes. The authors found that fish oil lowered triglycerides and raised LDL cholesterol but had no significant effect on:

* Fasting blood glucose
* HbA1c
* Total cholesterol
* HDL cholesterol.

(The authors did not identify and include studies with cardiovascular outcomes, but noted that this is an area for further research.)

Another analysis was published in 2004 by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality of 18 studies on omega-3 fatty acids for a number of measurable outcomes in type 2 diabetes. This study confirmed virtually all the Cochrane authors’ findings, except for finding no significant effect on LDL cholesterol.

Side Effects and Possible Risks With Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s appear to be safe for most adults at low to moderate doses. There have been some safety questions raised about fish oil supplements because certain species of fish can be contaminated with substances from the environment, such as:

* Mercury
* Pesticides
* PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls).

Fish oil is on the list of food substances that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers to be “generally recognized as safe.” How well a product is prepared is another factor for consumers to consider.

Potential side effects of fish oil include:

* A fishy aftertaste
* Belching
* Stomach disturbances
* Nausea.

Natural Remedies for Diabetes: Final Thoughts

The following points are important to keep in mind if you are considering natural diabetes remedies:

* People with diabetes need to be under the care of a physician (or other healthcare provider) who will help them learn to manage their condition and monitor their efforts to control it. Dietitians and diabetes educators help people learn and use the skills needed for managing diabetes on a daily basis. In addition, many people with the condition need to be under the care of one or more specialists, such as an endocrinologist, an ophthalmologist, and/or a podiatrist.

* There is limited scientific evidence on the effectiveness of these natural remedies. The evidence that is available is not sufficiently strong to prove that any of the six remedies discussed in this article have benefits for type 2 diabetes or its complications. A possible exception may be the use of omega-3 fatty acids to lower triglyceride levels.

* It is important to not replace scientifically proven diabetes treatments with natural remedies for diabetes that are unproven. The consequences of not following one’s prescribed medical regimen for diabetes can be serious — even life-threatening.

* To ensure a safe and coordinated course of care, people should inform their healthcare providers about any natural or alternative treatment options they are currently using or considering. Prescribed medicines for diabetes and all other major health conditions may need to be adjusted if a person is also using natural remedies. Pharmacists can be another helpful source of information about dietary supplements.

* If someone decides to use natural diabetes remedies, they should know that what they see on the label may not accurately reflect what is in the bottle. Some herbal supplements, for example, have been found to be contaminated; some tests of dietary supplements have found that the contents did not match the labeled dose on the bottle.

* Women who are pregnant or nursing, or people who are thinking of using natural remedies to treat a child, should use extra caution and be sure to consult their healthcare provider first.

* If people with diabetes decide to use a supplement and notice any unusual effects, they should stop using these immediately and contact their healthcare provider.

* The six natural remedies for diabetes reviewed in this article appear to be generally safe at low to moderate doses. However, each can interact with various prescription medications, affecting their action. People with type 2 diabetes need to know about these risks and discuss them with their healthcare provider. Prescribed medicines may need to be adjusted if a person is also using alternative treatments for diabetes.

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Natural Remedies for Diabetes: An Introduction

Nick — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:25:26 +0000

Some people with diabetes use complementary or alternative treatments for this condition. Although some alternative treatments may be effective, others can be ineffective or even harmful. People who use alternative treatments marketed as “natural diabetes remedies” need to let their healthcare providers know what they are doing.

This article focuses on six possible natural remedies that people try:

* Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA)
* Chromium
* Coenzyme Q10
* Garlic
* Magnesium
* Omega-3 fatty acids.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid as a Natural Remedy for Diabetes

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA, also known as lipoic acid or thioctic acid) is a chemical that is similar to a vitamin.
It is an antioxidant — a substance that prevents cell damage caused by substances called free radicals in a process called oxidative stress. High levels of blood glucose are one cause of oxidative stress.

ALA is found in foods such as:

* Liver
* Spinach
* Broccoli
* Potatoes.

ALA can also be made in the laboratory. The supplements are marketed as tablets or capsules. It is theorized that ALA may be beneficial because of its antioxidant activity.

Research Findings on Alpha-Lipoic Acid

The evidence on ALA as a natural remedy for type 2 diabetes and obesity is limited. There are a number of small studies in animals and in people that have shown hints of beneficial effects. In a few of these studies, some possible benefit from ALA was seen in:

* Glucose uptake in muscle
* Sensitivity of the body to insulin
* Diabetic neuropathy
* Weight loss.

More research is needed to document whether there is any benefit of using ALA to treat diabetes and to better understand how it works.

Side Effects and Possible Risks With Alpha-Lipoic Acid

While ALA appears to be safe for the general adult population, people with diabetes need to know that using it as a natural remedy for diabetes might lower blood sugar too much; they would need to monitor their blood sugar level especially carefully. ALA may also:

* Lower blood levels of minerals (such as iron)
* Interact with some medicines (such as antacids)
* Decrease the effectiveness of some anticancer drugs.

Other possible side effects of ALA include headache, skin rash, and stomach upset.

Natural Remedies for Diabetes: Chromium

Chromium is a metal and an essential trace mineral. It is found in foods such as:

* Meats
* Animal fats
* Fish
* Brown sugar
* Coffee
* Tea
* Some spices
* Whole-wheat and rye breads
* Brewer’s yeast.

It is marketed in supplement form (capsules and tablets) as:

* Chromium picolinate
* Chromium chloride
* Chromium nicotinate.

Research Findings on Chromium

There are scientific controversies about the use or need for chromium supplementation by people with diabetes. It is difficult to determine, including through tests, whether a person has a chromium deficiency. Also, it is not known whether it is beneficial to take chromium supplementation as a natural diabetes remedy; there is a lack of rigorous basic science studies to explain or support any evidence of benefit. Most research scientists conclude that there is not enough evidence to show that taking chromium supplements is beneficial for people with diabetes.

Side Effects and Other Risks With Chromium

At low doses, short-term use of chromium appears to be safe in the general adult population. However, chromium can add its effects on blood sugar to that of insulin; this might cause the blood sugar to go too low.

Possible side effects at low doses include:

* Weight gain
* Headache
* Insomnia
* Skin irritation
* Sleep problems
* Mood changes.

High doses can cause serious side effects. The foremost concern for people with diabetes who use chromium is the development of kidney problems. Other possible side effects include:

* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Bleeding into the gastrointestinal tract
* Worsening of any behavioral or psychiatric problems.

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Alternative Treatments for Diabetes: An Overview

Nick — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:17:42 +0000

Conventional medicine is medicine as practiced by holders of MD (medical doctor) or DO (doctor of osteopathy) degrees and by their allied health professionals, such as nurses, physical therapists, and dietitians. Complementary and alternative medicine is a group of diverse medical and healthcare systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine. Some practitioners of conventional medicine are also practitioners of complementary and alternative medicine.

There are many different complementary and alternative treatments for diabetes and its complications. This article will not discuss them all. Overall, there have been few rigorous studies published on the use of complementary and alternative diabetes treatments. Most of the literature has looked at herbal or other dietary supplements, which reflects the tradition in certain whole medical systems of using plant products with claimed effects on blood sugar.

Alternative Diabetes Treatments: What Are the Options?

Some complementary and alternative treatments for diabetes include:

* Acupuncture
* Biofeedback
* Chromium
* Ginseng
* Magnesium
* Vanadium.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a procedure in which a practitioner inserts needles into designated points on the skin. Some scientists believe that acupuncture triggers the release of the body’s natural painkillers. This alternative treatment has been shown to offer relief from chronic pain. Acupuncture is sometimes used by people with neuropathy, the painful nerve damage resulting from diabetes.

Biofeedback

Biofeedback is a technique that helps a person become more aware of and learn to deal with the body’s response to pain. This alternative diabetes treatment emphasizes relaxation and stress-reduction techniques. Guided imagery is a relaxation technique implemented by some professionals who use biofeedback. With guided imagery, a person thinks of peaceful mental images, such as ocean waves. A person may also include the images of controlling or curing a chronic disease, such as diabetes. People using this alternative treatment believe their condition can be eased with these positive images.

Chromium

The benefit of added chromium for diabetes has been studied and debated for several years. Several studies report that chromium supplementation may improve diabetes control. Chromium is needed to make glucose tolerance factor, which helps insulin improve its action. Because of insufficient information on the use of chromium as an alternative treatment for diabetes, however, no recommendations for chromium supplementation yet exist.

Ginseng

Several types of plants are referred to as ginseng, but most studies of ginseng and diabetes have used American ginseng. Those studies have shown some glucose-lowering effects in fasting and post-prandial (after meal) blood glucose levels, as well as in hemoglobin A1c levels (average blood glucose levels over a three-month period). However, larger and more long-term diabetes research studies are needed before doctors recommend using this alternative diabetes treatment. Researchers also have determined that the amount of glucose-lowering compound in ginseng plants varies widely.

Magnesium

Although the relationship between magnesium and diabetes has been studied for decades, it is not yet fully understood. Studies suggest that a deficiency in magnesium may worsen blood glucose control in type 2 diabetes. Scientists believe that a deficiency of magnesium interrupts insulin secretion in the pancreas and increases insulin resistance in the body’s tissues. Evidence suggests that a deficiency of magnesium may contribute to certain diabetes complications. A recent analysis showed that people with higher dietary intakes of magnesium (through consumption of whole grains, nuts, and green leafy vegetables) had a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes.

Vanadium

Vanadium is a compound found in tiny amounts in plants and animals. Early studies showed that vanadium normalized blood glucose levels in animals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. A recent study found that when people with diabetes were given vanadium, they developed a modest increase in insulin sensitivity and were able to decrease their insulin requirements. Currently, researchers want to understand how vanadium works in the body, discover potential side effects, and establish safe dosages.

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An Overview of Diabetic Medication

Nick — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 04:54:18 +0000

There are three basic types of diabetic medication:

* Oral diabetes medication
* Insulin
* Other injectable diabetes medicine (besides insulin).

The list of diabetic medication provided below is separated first by the categories explained above, then by the class of medicine to which a particular medication belongs.

List of Oral Diabetic Medication

Oral diabetes medications are used in the treatment of
type 2 diabetes. Medicines within this category fall within one of several classes, including:

* Biguanides
* Meglitinides
* Sulfonylureas
* Thiazolidinediones
* Alpha glucosidase inhibitors
* Dipeptidyl peptidase inhibitors
* Combination medications.

Biguanides

Metformin (Glucophage®, Glucophage XR®, Glumetza™, Riomet®, Fortamet®) is the only biguanide medication currently available.

Meglitinides
Meglitinides include:

* Repaglinide (Prandin®)
* Nateglinide (Starlix®).

Sulfonylureas

Specific types of these diabetic medications include:

* Chlorpropamide (Diabinese®)
* Glimepiride (Amaryl®)
* Glipizide (Glucotrol®)
* Glyburide (DiaBeta®, Micronase®, Glynase®)
* Tolazamide (Tolinase®)
* Tolbutamide (Orinase®).

Thiazolidinediones (Glitazones)
These diabetic medications include:

* Pioglitazone (Actos®)
* Rosiglitazone (Avandia®).

Alpha Glucosidase Inhibitors
These diabetic medications include:

* Acarbose (Precose®)
* Miglitol (Glyset®).

Dipeptidyl Peptidase Inhibitors
This is the newest class of oral diabetes drugs. Currently, there is only one medication available in the group — sitagliptin (Januvia®).

Combination Oral Diabetes Medications
There is a variety of combination drugs for diabetes available, including:

* Glipizide and metformin (Metaglip®)
* Glyburide and metformin (Glucovance®)
* Pioglitazone and glimepiride (Duetact®)
* Pioglitazone and metformin (Actoplus Met®)
* Rosiglitazone and glimepiride (Avandaryl®)
* Rosiglitazone and metformin (Avandamet®)
* Sitagliptin and metformin (Janumet®).

List of Diabetic Medication — Insulin

There are five classes of insulin available as an injection:

* Rapid-acting
o Insulin lispro (Humalog®)
o Insulin aspart (NovoLog®)

* Short-acting
o Humulin® R
o Novolin® R

* Intermediate-acting
o Humulin N
o Novolin N

* Long-acting
o Insulin glargine (Lantus®)

* Premixed
o Premixed insulin is two types of insulins mixed together in specific proportion in one bottle or insulin pen. There are several types of the NPH and regular insulin mixture (Humulin 70/30, Humulin 50/50, Novolin 70/30, NovoLog 70/30, Humalog 70/30).

Other Injectable Diabetes Medications
Besides insulin, there are two other types of injectable diabetes medications:

* Exenatide (Byetta®)
* Pramlintide acetate (Symlin®).

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Oral Medications for Diabetes

Nick — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 04:53:51 +0000

Many types of diabetes medication can help people with type 2 diabetes lower their blood glucose. Each type of medication helps lower blood glucose in a different way. The specific drug you take will likely be from one of these groups:

* Sulfonylureas stimulate your pancreas to make more insulin
* Biguanides decrease the amount of glucose made by your liver
* Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors slow the absorption of the starches you eat
* Thiazolidinediones make you more sensitive to insulin
* Meglitinides stimulate your pancreas to make more insulin
* D-phenylalanine derivatives help your pancreas make more insulin quickly.

Your doctor might prescribe one oral medication for diabetes. If this medicine does not lower your blood glucose, your doctor may:

* Ask you to take more of the same pills
* Add a new medicine or insulin
* Ask you to change to another medicine or insulin.

Other Injectable Diabetes Drugs

Besides insulin, there are two other classes of injectable diabetes medicines:

* Incretin mimetics, which includes exenatide (Byetta®)
* Amylin analogues, which includes pramlintide acetate (Symlin®).

Exenatide works by acting like the hormone incretin in the body, increasing insulin production and slowing digestion. It is used to treat type 2 diabetes, either by itself or in combination with metformin, a sulfonylurea, or thiazolidinedione.

Pramlintide is used to treat both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. This medicine works like the hormone amylin in the body, increasing insulin production, slowing digestion, decreasing the production of glucose by the liver, and reducing appetite.

Diabetes Medication and Hypoglycemia
Sulfonylureas, meglitinides, D-phenylalanine derivatives, combination oral medicines, and insulin are the types of drugs for diabetes that can make blood glucose go too low. Hypoglycemia can occur for many reasons, including:

* Delaying or skipping a meal
* Eating too little food at a meal
* Getting more exercise than usual
* Taking too much medicine
* Drinking alcohol.

You know your blood glucose may be low when you feel one or more of the following symptoms:

* Dizzy or lightheaded
* Hungry
* Nervous and shaky
* Sleepy or confused
* Sweaty.

If you think your blood glucose is low, test it to see for sure. If your blood glucose is at or below 70 mg/dL, have one of these items to get 15 grams of carbohydrate:

* 1/2 cup (4 ounces) of any fruit juice
* 1 cup (8 ounces) of milk
* 1 or 2 teaspoons of sugar or honey
* 1/2 cup (4 ounces) of regular soda
* 5 or 6 pieces of hard candy
* Glucose gel or tablets (take the amount noted on the package to add up to 15 grams of carbohydrate).

Test your blood glucose again 15 minutes later. If it is still below 70 mg/dL, eat another 15 grams of carbohydrate. Then test your blood glucose again in 15 minutes.

If you cannot test your blood glucose right away but you feel symptoms of hypoglycemia, eat one of the previously items listed.

If your blood glucose is not low but you will not eat your next meal for at least an hour, have a snack with starch and protein. Here are some examples:

* Crackers and peanut butter or cheese
* Half of a ham or turkey sandwich
* A cup of milk and crackers or cereal.

How Do I Know My Diabetes Medication Is Working?

Learn to test your blood glucose. Ask your doctor or diabetes teacher about the best testing tools for you and how often to test. After you test your blood glucose, write down your test results. Then ask your doctor or diabetes teacher if your medication is working. A good blood glucose reading before meals is between 70 and 140 mg/dL.

Ask your doctor or diabetes teacher about how low or how high your blood glucose should get before you take action. For many people, blood glucose is too low below 70 mg/dL and too high above 240 mg/dL.

One other number to know is the result of a blood test your doctor does called the A1c. It shows your blood glucose control during the past two to three months. For most people, the target for A1c is less than 7 percent.

Potential Side Effects of Medication for Diabetes

Side effects are changes that may happen in your body when you take a medicine. When your doctor gives you a new diabetes medication, ask what the side effects might be. Here are some things to remember about side effects of these medications:

* Some side effects occur just when you start to take the medication. Then they go away.

* Some side effects happen only once in a while. You may get used to them or learn how to manage them.

* Some side effects will cause you to stop taking the medicine. Your doctor may try another one that doesn’t cause you side effects.

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