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F.A.Q.

Q. I've been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Do I have to stop eating sugar?

A. It's a common misconception that once you are diagnosed with diabetes you have to stop eating sugar in any form. Actually, everything that you eat can affect your blood sugar level. Food is made up of carbohydrates, proteins or fats. If you are diabetic, the best diet gives you a healthy balance of all three. Sugar falls under the heading simple carbohydrate. Complex carbs are whole grains, cereals, fruits and vegetables. These are a healthier choice than "empty" simple sugars.

Q. The Adkins Diet elminates most carbs. Wouldn't this be a good diet for a person diagnosed with diabetes?

A. Although carbohydrates do raise blood sugar, they are still part of a healthy meal plan. The Adkins diet is mostly made up of protein and fat which puts a heavy load on your heart, liver and kidneys. It's not a practical long-term diet for someone who has a chronic disease. The healthiest diet is one that you can stick to for life. If it's balanced it's more satisfying and gives you the nutrients you need. A lifestyle change, rather than a diet helps manage your diabetes for the long haul.

Q. Do I have to use insulin if I have Type 2 diabetes?

A. Most likely not. Unlike Type 1, where no insulin is produced, Type 2 diabetes occurs when the insulin that is produced becomes less effective. Oral medications can help the cells become more receptive to insulin. There are five classes of medications which work in different ways, but they all help the body use the insulin that's already produced. Under some circumstances however, people with Type 2 may need supplemental insulin if the oral medications can't control the blood sugar levels.

Q. What's a normal range for my blood sugar if I have Type 2 diabetes?

A. If you have diabetes, your normal blood glucose levels will be slightly higher than someone without diabetes. Before meals it should be between 90 and 130 mg/dl and 2 hours after a meal, less than 180 mg/dl. These goals aren’t written in stone, though. Your levels may be higher or lower. Your health care provider can work with you to figure out your levels based on your individual medical history and lifestyle. Frequent blood sugar testing is the way to find out what's normal for you.

Q. What's a glucometer and how to I use it?

A. Glucometers are battery powered, handheld devices that measure the glucose level in a small sample of blood. They come with lancets for pricking your finger or other specified area to obtain a drop of blood. A small strip that fits into the machine draws the blood into a clear window on the end of the strip. The machine calculates the level of sugar in the sample. The screen will display the number. Please see How To Use A Glucometer for step by step instructions.

Q. When is the best time to test my blood sugar?

A. The best times to test your blood sugar are; before meals, one to two hours after meals and before bed. It's also a good idea to test before you exercise, because vigorous exercise can lower blood sugar signigicantly. Also whenever you suspect your blood sugar is too low or too high, you should do a test.

Q. How does exercise affect my diabetes?

A. Exercise can help lower your blood glucose. It also helps reduce blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, too. Regular activity helps insulin work better, improves circulation, and keeps joints flexible. It helps you to lose weight and when combined with a healthy diet can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Q. Why do I have to be careful of my feet if I have diabetes?

A. Diabetes can lead to nerve damage, or neuropathy, due to prolonged high blood glucose levels. Most commonly, neuropathy causes foot problems, can cause serious complications. Neuropathy causes a loss of feeling and poor circulation. Even a small injury can cause big problems. You might not notice it until it becomes infected. If circulation in your feet is not good, you can't fight infection as well, and it could spread. This could cause serious problems and possibly even amputation.

Q. If I have diabetes, am I a good candidate for an annual flu shot?

A. Having any chronic illness puts you in a high risk category for flu and pneumonia. It's a good idea for people with diabetes to get an annual flu shot. It's also wise to get a pneumonia shot as well. The pneumonia vaccine is good for many years unlike the flu shot which must be obtained every year. Talk to your health care provider about getting a flu shot and a pneumonia shot this fall.

Q. Help! My healthcare provider just told me I have pre-diabetes. What do I do now?

A. Being diagnosed with pre-diabetes means that your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not quite as high as they would be if you had diabetes. Typically, if you lose some weight, maybe 10% of your body weight, by dieting and exercising, you can lower your blood sugar levels. For a 10% weight loss, a 175 pound person would need to lose about 17 pounds. This can make a big difference, not only in your glucose levels but also in your overall health.