AM 920 WMNI Radio Columbus, Ohio

WMNI DIABETES UPDATES

12-26-05

Living Well With Diabetes is a service of the Central Ohio Diabetes Association. With support from Abbott Diabetes Care, maker of the Freestyle Flash, the world’s smallest blood glucose meter, and Precision Xtra, the first home use meter that measures both blood glucose and blood ketone levels. Ask your doctor about the ease and simplicity of the Freestyle Flash and Precision Xtra.

You can live well with diabetes!
“ Ninety percent of people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes suffer nerve damage or diabetic neuropathy. It could be that too much glucose interferes with their circulation and their nerves don’t get enough nutrients. Signs of nerve damage include a tingling or burning sensation in the arms, legs and feet, usually worse at night. Or perhaps a person is less sensitive to heat and cold or there is numbness. For some people, these symptoms are just annoying. For others, there is severe pain which makes sleep and work difficult. Many studies prove that controlling diabetes can reduce the risk of neuropathy, or nerve damage, by up to 60 percent.”

“How do you get diabetes? Like other human traits, diabetes is not simply passed on from generation to generation. But some people are born more likely than others to get diabetes. Let’s focus just on type 1 diabetics. These people generally inherit risk factors from both parents. The American Diabetes Association says one environmental trigger might be related to cold weather. Type 1 develops more often in winter and is more common in cold climates. Another trigger might be viruses. Early diet may be another. Type 1 is less common in people who were breastfed and in those who first ate solid food at later ages. In a lot of people people, the development of type 1 diabetes seems to take many years.”

Contact the Central Ohio Diabetes Association at 884-4400 and www.diabetesohio.org

Contact Abbott Diabetes Care at 888-522-5226, 24/7 and www.abbottdiabetescare.com

12-19-05

You can live well with diabetes!
What are the warning signs of diabetes? Maybe you feel
tired all the time, your vision is blurry, you are thirsty, you
have cuts or bruises that take a long time to heal, or you have
tingling or numbness in your feet. Victims of type 1 diabetes
need insulin shots or an insulin pump to control blood sugar.
Those with type 2 control it through diet, exercise or possibly
medication. If you are over the age of 45, you have a family
history of diabetes and you are overweight, you are at risk
for type 2 diabetes. It used to be that people were considered
“ borderline diabetic” or “pre-diabetic”. But those terms are no
longer recognized. It’s kind of like being a little bit pregnant:
either you are…. or you aren’t.

Ever notice that your blood sugar is higher in the morning when you wake up, compared to when you went to bed? It’s almost like you were sleep walking and ate cake and ice cream during the middle of the night! Some people have reported glucose levels before bed at a level of 120, but find an increase of up to 200 the next morning. There may be several reasons, like whether you ate too much the night before, which could keep blood sugar high all night long. Cutting back on food intake plus a little exercise and medication might help. Keep in mind what the body was designed to do: the livernormally releases glucose during the night to provide energy for when you sleep and tostart the next day. But remember that too much of a good thing……… is not good at all.

Contact the Central Ohio Diabetes Association at 884-4400 and www.diabetesohio.org

Contact Abbott Diabetes Care at 888-522-5226, 24/7 and www.abbottdiabetescare.com

12-12-05

“Eating anything with calories affects blood sugar levels. The key is finding the balance between the food we eat, exercise and possibly medication that will help keep diabetes under control. Carbohydrates affect blood sugar the quickest and more significantly than protein or fat, so it’s important that people with diabetes eat moderate amounts of carbs. But it’s also important eat proteins and fats in moderation. Overeating for diabetics is never good, no matter what the food.”

“It’s only been in recent years that we’ve heard so much about diabetes. The awareness has grown dramatically. Did you know that diabetes is a chronic disease which has no cure, and that it is the sixth leading cause of the death by disease in our country? Here in Ohio, we have the third highest rate of death from diabetes. Ideally, diabetics would have their disease under control but this, unfortunately, this would be the exception rather than the rule. Early detection, patient education, and self-discipline are among the factors critical to success in dealing with diabetes.”

Contact the Central Ohio Diabetes Association at 884-4400 and www.diabetesohio.org

Contact Abbott Diabetes Care at 888-522-5226, 24/7 and www.abbottdiabetescare.com

12-5-05

“A study of women in Sweden found that those who drank wine, beer, or liquor were less likely than non-drinkers to develop type 2 diabetes. But when researchers took into account the women’s body weight, the story becomes more interesting. It turns out that women who drank generally were leaner anyway, and tended to be more active and affluent. So in this case, a woman’s weight, which is a key element in the risk for diabetes, seems to be more important than whether she consumes alcohol.”

“The loss of sensitivity to insulin, or insulin resistance, might helped by certain dietary supplements. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports that supplements made of resistant starch can help improve the body’s response to insulin, which is key to the processing of sugar. Researchers found that a resistant starch supplement improved sensitivity in healthy people by up to a third, and plan further testing on diabetics. The hope is that this kind dietary change could help diabetics improve their health ….without having to make big changes in lifestyle.”

Contact the Central Ohio Diabetes Association at 884-4400 and www.diabetesohio.org

Contact Abbott Diabetes Care at 888-522-5226, 24/7 and www.abbottdiabetescare.com

Halloween is a real tough time for kids who suffer from diabetes. Children with diabetes are faced with a huge temptation and the feeling of being left out. That’s why the Central Ohio Diabetes Association and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Mid-Ohio Chapter are co-sponsoring a free fall celebration for children with diabetes. It’s Sunday October 30th from 2 to 4pm at the Central Ohio Diabetes Association on Dennison Avenue. Kids can dress up and bring their candy from Trick Or Treat to exchange for toys and other stuff. There will also be judges on hand to select the best costumes. Please register ahead of time by contacting the Central Ohio Diabetes Association.

Contact the Central Ohio Diabetes Association at 884-4400 and www.diabetesohio.org

Contact Abbott Diabetes Care at 888-522-5226, 24/7 and www.abbottdiabetescare.com

You can live well with diabetes!
Diabetics should always check for any signs of developing sores or wounds. Dr. Carl Sharp, consulting podiatrist for Ballet Met, says that a diabetic with an open wound on the foot should see a doctor immediately. Dr. Sharp says that that an open wound on a diabetic who has high blood glucose could develop into bacterial infection. The diabetic could become seriously ill within as little as 24 hours because their immune system is not functioning well. Wynola Wayne, who is a nurse and diabetes educator, says that it’s important to be tested for diabetes, especially if it runs in the family, a person is overweight, or has symptoms of diabetes like frequent urination, extreme thirst, fatigue, or blurred vision. Wynola says that losing as little as five to ten pounds can make a big difference for a person who has diabetes….and for the person who wants to prevent it.

Contact the Central Ohio Diabetes Association at 884-4400 and www.diabetesohio.org

Contact Abbott Diabetes Care at 888-522-5226, 24/7 and www.abbottdiabetescare.com

You can live well with diabetes! Did you know that being overweight, being inactive, and not eating a healthy diet can be risk factors for diabetes? Being overweight puts a stress on the body and it does not function well. Being inactive contributes to weight gain and decreased body functions. Eating healthy provides the body with the nutrition it needs. Make a plan to be healthier. If you have high blood pressure and develop diabetes, your risk for a heart attack increases significantly. This risk can be reduced by exercising, controlling stress and following a healthy diet. See your doctor so that this determination can be made.

Contact the Central Ohio Diabetes Association at 884-4400 and www.diabetesohio.org

Contact Abbott Diabetes Care at 888-522-5226, 24/7 and www.abbottdiabetescare.com

Week of 8-22-05

The WMNI Diabetes Update is a service of the Central Ohio Diabetes Association. With support from Abbott Diabetes Care, maker of Freestyle Flash, the world’s smallest blood glucose meter. Available at Marc’s Pharmacy with locations near Upper Arlington and Westerville…for deeper discounts on all your prescription needs! Ask your doctor about the ease and simplicity of the Freestyle Flash…

“ Healthy kidneys are very important in keeping us well. They remove wastes from our blood and keep fluids in balance. For diabetics, good nutrition is very important and so are control of blood sugar and blood pressure. High blood sugar can damage the small vessels in the kidneys, which act as filters for waste. High blood pressure can cause kidney damage because of the extra force on the blood as it flows through the small and very fragile filters of the kidney.”

“ There are certain groups of people who are more likely to suffer from diabetes. For example, African Americans are about one and a half times more likely to have type 2 diabetes than the general population. And Hispanic Americans are nearly two times likely. Type 2 diabetes is also relatively high among Native Americans. When it comes to type 1 diabetes, there is a higher incidence among whites than in other racial groups.”

The WMNI Diabetes Update is a service of the Central Ohio Diabetes Association. With support from Abbott Diabetes Care, maker of the Precision Xtra, the first home-use meter that measures both blood glucose and blood ketone levels. Available at Marc’s Pharmacy with locations near Upper Arlington and Westerville…. for deeper discounts on all your prescription needs! Ask your doctor about the ease and simplicity of Precision Xtra

Week of 8-15-05

What is diabetes’ effect on the brain? A first of a kind study shows that higher levels of insulin in the body could play a role in Alzheimer’s disease. That’s the latest from a new study published in a Seattle newspaper. Researchers found that these higher levels of insulin can got straight to the brain and cause inflammation, plus higher levels of a protein that’s found in people suffering from Alzheimer’s. This is very important to seniors because nearly half of all Americans over the age of 60 have insulin resistance.

If you have type 2 diabetes, here’s an idea that might help stimulate the release of insulin and control those big increases in blood glucose levels after meals. Reuter’s Health reports on new research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, which shows that adding whey to high-carb meals might help you control your blood sugar. The reason that whey has this effect is not exactly known, but it could be related to certain acids and hormones that are present in this protein.

Week of 8-8-05

“ A Mayo Clinic study suggests that the development of diabetes late in life might be a sign of underlying pancreatic cancer. Researchers found that people who developed diabetes over the age of 50 had an eight times higher risk of developing this type of cancer. One percent of these people actually developed pancreatic cancer within the following three years. “

“Foot sores are always a danger for diabetics because if they are not treated properly, they could lead to amputation. The medical journal ‘Diabetes Care’ reports on a study that shows double-layer socks might prevent these sores because they apparently cut down on pressure on the underside of the foot. The study found that when people wore double-layer socks, pressure points were eased. This could be an inexpensive way for diabetics to protect their feet from developing foot ulcers.”

Week of 8-1-05

The WMNI Diabetes Update is a service of the Central Ohio Diabetes Association. With support from Abbott Diabetes Care, maker of Freestyle Flash, the world’s smallest blood glucose meter. Available at Marc’s Pharmacy with locations near Upper Arlington and Westerville…for deeper
discounts on all your prescription needs! Ask your doctor about the ease and simplicity of the Freestyle Flash…

“The Central Ohio Diabetes Association is offering free screenings through the month of August. Call 884-4400. 884-4400 for more details. You can have your blood glucose checked at various locations, including the Association offices on Dennison Avenue, and also at the Ohio State Fair in the Health Pavilion. These screenings are free and take only a minute.”

“There is plenty of opportunity to find out if you have a blood sugar problem. All this month, the Central Ohio Diabetes Association is offering free blood sugar screenings. If you are going to the Ohio State Fair, you can get your blood tested at the Health Pavilion. Call the Association at 884-4400. 884-4400 for more details.”

Week of 7-25-05

Having one type of diabetes is bad enough, but what about when someone suffers from two? There is a new phenomenon called “double diabetes”. It can affect people at any age but here’s an example. Children with type 1 diabetes who need insulin injections may gain weight, and then end up getting the type 2 form of diabetes, in which their bodies become insulin resistant.

New research published in the science journal “Nature” shows that scientists have found a molecular link between obesity and type 2 diabetes. A protein that is released by fat tissue in mice causes resistance to insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels. Elevated levels of that particular protein have also been previously detected in people who live with diabetes. So this finding provides a possible target for new drugs to treat this disease.

Week of 7-18-05

Here’s a way to get some free information about living better with diabetes. The Central Ohio Diabetes Association is holding an education workshop Saturday July 30 from 11 to 1 at the Columbus Health Department. The topics include motivational and diet tips and how to maintain healthy feet. Call 884-4400. 884-4400 for more details.

The Central Ohio Diabetes Association is hosting a free workshop on issues of critical importance to diabetics. It’s Saturday July 30th from 11 to 1 at the Columbus Health Department. You can learn about topics like the proper walking shoes and foot care to make sure you protect your feet from problems common to diabetics. And there will also be information on nutrition and meal planning.

Week of 7-11-05

There are so many complications from diabetes. Now Reuter’s Health reports that having diabetes apparently raises the risk for men of developing colorectal cancer. Researchers found that diabetes was associated with a nearly 50-percent higher likelihood of developing both colon and rectal cancer. It could be that high insulin levels or factors related to insulin resistance may play a part in triggering colon cancer.

Controlling diabetes takes common sense. Here’s some of how the Central Ohio Diabetes Association suggests you begin to get a handle your diet. Eat 3 meals a day and the right planned snacks and don’t skip any of them. Eat the same amount of food at about the same time everyday to help stabilize your blood sugar. And eat foods from all the food groups for the best nutrition.

Week of 7-4-05

“Here in Central Ohio, it’s estimated that more than 180,000 people have diabetes but only half of them even know it! It’s easy to find out if you suffer from this illness. Just contact the Central Ohio Diabetes Association and you can get a blood sugar screening free! All during the month of July, the Association is holding free screenings at its headquarters on Dennison Avenue, at the Jazz and Ribfest and at the Columbus Health Department.”

“ You don’t have to schedule a doctor’s appointment to see if your blood sugar is too high. All you have to do is contact the Central Ohio Diabetes Association. There are free blood sugar screenings which take only a minute and require just a drop of blood. It’s very easy. Throughout this month, there are free screenings not only at the Central Ohio Diabetes Association offices, but at places like the Jazz and Ribfest in Bicentennial Park the weekend of the 23rd. Make sure you are not living with undetected diabetes.”

Week of 6-20-05

The WMNI Diabetes Update is presented by Abbott Diabetes Care, makers of the Freestyle Flash, the world’s smallest blood glucose meter. Available at Marc’s Pharmacy with locations near Upper Arlington and Westerville…for deeper discounts on all your prescription needs! Ask your doctor about the ease and simplicity of the Freestyle Flash…

The Centers for Disease Control recently released figures which confirm that the number of Americans with diabetes is skyrocketing. The number of people between the ages of 18 and 79 newly diagnosed with diabetes rose more than 40 percent between 1997 and 2003. 40 percent!!! There is a common thread among those newly diagnosed in 2003: almost all were obese or overweight. The American Diabetes Association says that diagnostic changes may be part of the reason for this big increase…. but so is the growing incidence of obesity in our country.

The number of people with diabetes who need to be hospitalized has been falling over the past decade. The Centers for Disease Control report that the rate fell 35 percent between 1994 and 2002. The reason is that there are many good treatments and interventions for diabetes. Another CDC study found that the rate of kidney failure in diabetics peaked in 1996 and has fallen dramatically since then, even though more and more of us are being diagnosed with the disease. Diabetics these days are now less sick than they were a decade ago.”

The WMNI Diabetes Update is presented by Abbott Diabetes Care, makers of the Precision Xtra, the first home-use meter that measures both blood glucose and blood ketone levels. Available at Marc’s Pharmacy with locations near Upper Arlington and Westerville…. for deeper discounts on all your prescription needs! Ask your doctor about the ease and simplicity of Precision Xtra

Week of 6-13-05

Is there a way to reverse the course of type 2 diabetes? Maybe. An expert at the Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston says that for newly diagnosed patients, just by losing 7 percent of body weight…or 14 pounds if you weigh 200, you can improve the function of your liver. Losing weight and leading an active lifestyle in the early stages of type 2 diabetes can allow your body to better regulate blood sugar. So radical change is not really necessary for diabetics to improve their health.

We know the dangers of air pollution, but those of us with diabetes may be at extra risk. There’s a new study that shows people with diabetes might be at a higher risk for heart-related problems when levels of air pollution are high. Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health found that blood vessels were negatively affected on days when concentrates of sulfate particles and black carbon were higher. These are found in pollutants from coal-burning plants and diesel and gas-powered vehicles. This kind of reaction in blood vessels might elevate the risk for a heart attack or stroke.

Week of 5-30-05

“Talking about exercise is one thing, and then actually doing it is another. But there’s a new study in the journal “Diabetes Care” that shows people with diabetes are almost three times more likely to stick with an exercise program if their doctors help them create it. Exercise is very important in the control of blood glucose partly because it helps keep weight under control. The report says that people who worked out for at least a half an hour, at least 5 days a week, were more likely to have better overall health.”

“What does sugar-free really mean? The American Diabetes Association says sugar-free does not mean carbohydrate free. Always compare the total carbohydrate content of a sugar free food with that of the standard product. If there’s little difference in the number of carbs, then choose the one you want based on taste and price. But read the label closely. ‘No sugar added’ foods may still be high in carbs and that’s not good for diabetics. Fat-free foods can also be higher in carbohydrates and contain almost the same number of calories as the foods they replace. A good example is fat free cookies.

Week of 5-23-05

“There is a new study that shows more than two-thirds of Americans with type 2 diabetes are not in control of their blood sugar. A new study by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists shows that Ohio ranks fourth highest, with Mississippi number one. The study shows most people with type 2 diabetes do not maintain their blood glucose within the healthy limits and are at a greater risk of developing serious diabetes-related complications. Despite the study’s results, most type 2 patients responding to a national survey said that they were doing a good job of controlling their blood sugar.”

“Who’s keeping an eye on the quality of your vision? A study shows that seniors who have diabetes have high rates of untreated eye disorders -- even among those who had seen their doctors in the past year. The study in the May issue of Archives of Ophthalmology looked at people age 65 or older with type 2 diabetes – most with managed care health insurance and the rest with fee-for-service health insurance. Both groups had high rates of untreated eye disease, but the managed care patients had higher rates of cataracts and other disorders. Most of the patients had been seen by an eye-care specialist in the previous 12 months, which suggests there may be a problem with the quality of eye care seniors receive.”

The WMNI Diabetes Update is presented by Abbott Diabetes Care, makers of the Precision Xtra, the first home-usemeter that measures both blood glucose and blood ketone levels. Available at Marc’s Pharmacy with locations near Upper Arlington and Westerville…. for deeper discounts on all your prescription needs! Ask your doctor about the ease and simplicity of Precision Xtra

Week of 5-16-05

The WMNI Diabetes Update is presented by Abbott
Diabetes Care, makers of the Freestyle Flash, the world’s smallest blood glucose meter. Available at Marc’s Pharmacy with locations near Upper Arlington and Westerville…for deeper discounts on all your prescription needs! Ask your doctor about the ease and simplicity of the Freestyle Flash…

Your mental health is very important to maintaining your physical health. A new study confirms that people with diabetes are prone to depression. And that it significantly increases the likelihood that they will die over a ten-year period. A Reuter’s Health report says that depression should be considered a target for diabetes management. The report also stresses that physical and mental health are interrelated and one impacts the other. So depression makes it difficult for diabetics to take care of themselves properly. Your mood and your attitude are critical in controlling your blood sugar and ultimately, your life expectancy.” A new national survey by the American Diabetes Association shows a majority of people with diabetes experience symptoms of diabetic neuropathy or nerve damage, but only a small minority have even been diagnosed with this condition. And most patients have never even heard of this disorder! This is a serious complication of diabetes that leads to pain or numbness and tingling or "pins and needles" in the feet and hands. The pain typically worsens at night, and many people experience difficulty sleeping. If untreated, diabetic neuropathy progresses and can lead to foot ulcers, infections and even amputation”

Week of 5-2-05

The WMNI Diabetes Update is presented by AbbottDiabetes Care, makers of the Freestyle Flash, the world’s smallest blood glucose meter. Available at Marc’s Pharmacy with locations near Upper Arlington and Westerville…for deeper discounts on all your prescription needs! Ask your doctor about the ease and simplicity of the Freestyle Flash…

“ The Central Ohio Diabetes Association begins its new health and fitness program called ‘Walking in The Neighborhood’ this coming Saturday at Columbus City Hall from 11am to 2p. The program is supported by grants from the Abbott Lab Foundation, Glucerna and the Ohio Department of Health. The goal is to encourage those of us living with diabetes to take control of our health by developing good diet and exercise habits. Remember, that ‘Walking in the Neighborhood’ begins at 11:00 Saturday morning outside Columbus City Hall. And join the Central Ohio Diabetes Association on Tuesday May 10th at Aladdin Shrine Center for ‘Live Well in 2005’, brought to you by Abbott Diabetes Care and AM 920 WMNI. You’ll receive free blood glucose tests and information to help you control your diabetes. If you don’t suffer from it, then you can get tips on how to prevent the onset of this disease.”

“There are two very important dates which you need to mark on your calendar. First, this coming Saturday May 7th. The Central Ohio Diabetes Association will begin its ‘Walking in The Neighborhood’ program at Columbus City Hall between 11 am and 2pm. This program, supported by Glucerna Brands, The Abbott Lab Foundation and the Ohio Department of Health, is designed to encourage people who live with diabetes to use walking on a regular basis as a way to help control their blood sugar level and improve their overall health. Then Tuesday May 10th, join the Central Ohio Diabetes Foundation at AM 920 WMNI’s ‘Live Well in 2005’, a service of Abbott Diabetes Care. This free event offers screenings and tips on living with …..and preventing….diabetes.”

Week of 4-25-05

The WMNI Diabetes Update is presented by Abbott
Diabetes Care, makers of the Freestyle Flash, the world’s smallest blood glucose meter. Available at Marc’s Pharmacy with locations near Upper Arlington and Westerville…for deeper discounts on all your prescription needs! Ask your doctor about the ease and simplicity of the Freestyle Flash…

“ Does everyone with diabetes develop complications? Fortunately, the answer is an emphatic NO! If you maintain good control over your blood glucose and hemoglobin A-1-C levels, you can help avoid completely or at least delay the onset of physical problems. In other words, YOU may be able to control the course of this disease by proper monitoring, medication, eating and exercise. This is how you can avoid the damage that diabetes causes to blood vessels and the resulting heart and kidney problems or the loss of an arm or leg. Find out more at WMNI’s Live Well in 2005 at Aladdin Shrine Center on Tuesday May 10, 2005, brought you by Abbott Diabetes Care. Visit the the Central Ohio Diabetes Association booth and get a free blood glucose test.”

“ Yes, it can be expensive to control diabetes. But like the saying goes, either pay now or pay later. And paying later would be far more costly in terms of serious medical complications. Diabetes does require the purchase of medications, blood glucose monitoring supplies, good shoes, and healthy foods. But you can stretch your diabetes food dollar by following these tips from the Central Ohio Diabetes Association. Shop in larger grocery markets. Buy diabetic, not dietetic foods which are probably more expensive, but not helpful to those of us with blood glucose issues. Focus on healthy carbs, like whole grain products and fruits and vegetables. Buy the store brands or bulk, which can save you a lot of money. Learn more at WMNI’s Live Well in 2005 at Aladdin Shrine Center on Tuesday May 10, 2005, brought to you by Abbott Diabetes Care. Visit the Central Ohio Diabetes Association booth for more information on ways to control high blood glucose.”

Week of 4-18-05

“ The American Diabetes Association says that people who have diabetes have about twice the risk of hip fractures as the general population. This is very serious, because one year after fracturing a hip, half of patients can’t walk without assistance. So make sure you get regular exercise to strengthen your bones and muscles, take calcium and vitamin D, use nightlights and get rid of throw rugs that might trip you up. And make sure you stop by the Central Ohio Diabetes Association booth at WMNI’s Live Well in 2005 on Tuesday May 7 at the Aladdin Shrine Center. Get a free blood glucose screening and learn whether you are at risk for diabetes”

“ An herb long used in traditional Indian medicine appears to control the rise in blood sugar that follows a meal -- suggesting that it could help treat or even prevent type 2 diabetes. The study, published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, was targeted at adults without diabetes, and found that a beverage made from the herb, known as Salacia oblonga, stemmed participants' normal post-meal rise in blood sugar. There was a similar reduction in blood levels of insulin, which helps shuttle sugar from the blood and into cells to be used for energy. The next step would be to test the herb’s ability to slow post-meal sugar absorption in people with diabetes. Make sure you stop by the Central Ohio Diabetes Association Booth at WMNI’s Live Well in 2005 Tuesday May 7 at the Aladdin Shrine Center. Get a free blood glucose screening and learn whether you are at risk for diabetes.”

Week of 4-11-05

“A key to controlling diabetes is eating the right food. The Central Ohio Diabetes Association is helping by providing cooking demonstrations this month. Mark your calendar for April 20th at the Giant Eagle on Meadow Park Avenue in Lewis Center. Then on the 26th, there’s a class at the Association’s offices on Dennison Avenue. For more details, call the Central Ohio Diabetes Association at 884-4400. 884-4400. And come to WMNI’s Live Well in 2005 on Tuesday May 10th at Aladdin Shrine Center, where CODA is offering free screenings.”

“ Skipping breakfast may be bad for your blood sugar. A recent issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports on how researchers found that when lean, healthy women skipped eating in the morning, it raised their cholesterol levels and diminished their bodies’ sensitivity to insulin, a hormone with helps regulate blood sugar. In addition, the women tended to eat more calories on breakfast-free days, which means that over the long haul skipping food in the morning could lead to weight gain. If you suspect you might have blood sugar problems, contact your doctor and the Central Ohio Diabetes Association. And there will also be free-glucose testing at WMNI’s Live Well in 2005 at Aladdin Shrine Center on Tuesday May 10th.”

Week of 4-4-05

The WMNI Diabetes Update is presented by Abbott Diabetes Care, maker of the FreeStyle Flash, the world’s smallest blood glucose meter. Available at Marc’s Pharmacy locations in the Upper Arlington and Westerville areas…for deeper discounts on all your prescription needs.

“The Central Ohio Diabetes Association says everybody over the age of 25 should be checked for diabetes, especially if they are overweight, have a family history of diabetes or belong to a high risk group like African-Americans and Hispanics. If you let diabetes go unchecked for too long, you run the risk of a long list of problems ranging from heart disease to blindness. April is Minority Health Month. And the Central Ohio Diabetes Association offers several locations for you to get a free diabetes screening. Call 884-44/hundred. 884-44/hundred for more details. There will also be free screenings at Live Well in 2005 on Tuesday May 10th, at Aladdin Shrine Center, brought to you by Abbott Diabetes Care.”

“ In Central Ohio alone, there are more than 180,000 people who have diabetes and half are unaware of it. In fact, the state of Ohio has one of the highest mortality rates in the nation from diabetes. The Central Ohio Diabetes Association offers free blood screenings. It takes just a minute and requires only a drop of blood. Not a big sacrifice, considering the alternatives: heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney disease and amputations. Call the Central Ohio Diabetes Association at 884-44/hundred for more information. That’s 884-44/hundred. Or visit the CODA booth at Live Well in 2005 on May 10th at Aladdin Shrine Center, brought to you by Abbott Diabetes Care.”

The WMNI Diabetes Update is presented by Abbott Diabetes Care, maker of Precision Xtra, the first home-use meter that measures both blood glucose and blood ketone levels. Available at Marc’s Pharmacy locations in the Upper Arlington and Westerville areas…for deeper discounts on all your prescription needs.

Week of 3-28-05

“Type 2 diabetes has a stronger genetic basis than type 1, yet environment is still a big factor. A family history of type 2 is one of the biggest risk factors for getting the disease, but the fact that we eat too much fat, too little fiber, and don’t get
enough exercise only increases our chances of developing diabetes. Obesity is also a strong risk factor. The American Diabetes Association says that if you have type 2 diabetes, the odds of your child developing it are 1 in 7, if you were diagnosed before the age of 50. The chances your son or daughter will develop diabetes are less if you were diagnosed after the age of 50.”

Week of 3-21-05

“A big challenge for diabetics is temptation when eating at a
restaurant. But here are ways that the American Diabetes Association says might help. Ask about what’s in the food and how much will be served. Go for fish or meat that is broiled. Order the baked potato plain and then you put a little margarine or low cal sour cream. Ask for sauces on the side. Stay way from breaded or fried foods because of the fat. And limit the alcohol. Don’t be shy about asking. Many restaurants try to cater to customers who want to eat healthy foods.”

“ You can make healthy fast food choices!!!! The American Diabetes Association says that you should remember that an average fast food meals runs as high as 1000 calories, which can really bump up your sugar levels. Chicken and fish work for you if they are not breaded and deep fried. Stay away from super size and biggie size. The salad bar’s fine without the high-fat cheeses and bacon. If you like pizza, go thin crust with vegetable toppings. At the Mexican restaurant, choose chicken over beef. Pile on the lettuce, tomatoes and salsa. If you must eat fast food, then for the rest of your meals that day include lots of fruits and vegetables.”

Week of 3-14-05

The WMNI Diabetes Update is presented by Abbott Diabetes Care, maker of the FreeStyle Flash, the world’s smallest blood glucose meter. Ask your doctor about the ease and simplicity of the FreeStyle Flash…….

“ What, if anything, can vitamins and herbs do for diabetes? The American Diabetes Association says that if you have a vitamin or mineral deficiency, it could cause problems for your blood glucose control. For example, one study showed that taking the trace element chromium improved blood sugar control in people who suffered from a chromium deficiency. If you eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains and meat each day and keep your blood glucose under control, then you probably don’t need to take vitamin supplements. There are many herbswhich supposedly help diabetics, but none are recommended by the ADA. Best to discuss herbal supplements with your doctor or dietician because they might interact poorly with your diabetes medication.”

“Why is weight loss so important to controlling diabetes? The American Diabetes Association says that losing weight helps break down insulin resistance. In people with type 2 diabetes, weight loss helps their natural insulin do a better job of lowering blood glucose. And when blood fat and blood pressure levels fall, there is less risk of cardiovascular disease. But are there foods that are safe for diabetics to eat a lot of? Not really. Moderation is the key to healthy living. And don’t try to drop a lot of weight quickly. Slow and steady weight loss is the key to keeping the pounds off. Limit weight loss to a half a pound to a pound a week.”

The WMNI Diabetes Update is presented by Abbott Diabetes Care, maker of Precision Xtra, the first home-use meter that measures both blood glucose and blood ketone levels. Ask your doctor about the ease and simplicity of Precision Xtra...

Week of 3-7-05

“The number of people in our country diagnosed with diabetes is rising every day by more than 2,000! Within the next twenty years, it’s estimated that there will be 32 million people suffering from this chronic disease, which is double today’s number. Information from the Central Ohio Diabetes Association shows that Ohio ranks 8th in number of diabetics, totaling nearly a half million people And Ohio has the third highest rate of death due to this illness. So what does the federal government spend on research? Only one dollar to every 7 spent on AIDS and breast cancer, even though diabetes affects more people and costs more money than both AIDS and breast cancer combined.”

“Many people have been under the impression that they should wash their hands before testing their blood sugar. But if the reason is to avoid infection, you should remember that it is very rare and unlikely that you’ll develop an infection at the lancing site. Besides, there is always the chance that whatever you used to clean your hands could provide a false reading on your glucose monitor. For example, rubbing alcohol or water could dilute the blood sample and give you a false low reading. And the opposite is true. It’s possible that the residue from a cookie or something else sweet could boost your glucose reading! Just maintain normal hygiene. Your hands don’t need to be sterile in order to test your blood.”

Week of 2-28-05

“Middle-aged people with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and who smoke might be at a high risk for dementia. A report in the journal Neurology shows how the people tested had more than double the chance of being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, compared with those who had none of those four risk factors. It appears that dementia is not a separate process that just happens in the brain, because it has now been shown that there may be other contributing factors. Improving blood glucose control among people with diabetes, lowering cholesterol, reducing blood pressure and stopping smoking might help cut the risk for developing Alzheimer’s Disease.”

“Diabetics know the costs of their illness not only in a physical and emotional sense, but financially as well. Bills for test strips really add up. Remember that meters and test strips are an allowable medical expense under IRS rules. So if you claim medical expenses on your taxes, don't forget to include the money you spend on your diabetic supplies. At last check, only a small percentage of taxpayers actually claim their medical expenses, probably because you can only write off an amount that exceeds 7.5% of your gross adjusted income.”

Week of 2-21-05

“How can you be sure that you are getting all the right tests and exams for diabetes? Here’s a general guideline: First, have a plan with specific goals. For example, the appropriate weight and blood glucose levels. Then monitor your blood glucose on a regular basis. Have your eyes and kidney function checked at least once a year. And make sure that you examine and also have your doctor check your lower extremities. Look for sores on your fee. And you should meet with a registered dietician to make sure that your meal plans are appropriate for diabetes. Above all, consult your doctor and check with the American Diabetes Association, which has national standards for care.”

“ Some men with Type 2 diabetes experience low levels of testosterone. The reason may be related to abnormal function of the pituitary gland, which is the master regulator of all hormone production. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism shows that a third of patients studied were found to have low testosterone, and that two key hormones were also significantly lower than in those men with normal levels of testosterone. The research also shows that the higher the man’s body weight, the lower their testosterone.”

Week of 2-14-05

“The benefits of fiber are well known. Whether we have diabetes or not, we should consume about 20 to 35 grams in our diet every day. But generally we only eat about half that amount, partly because most of us would probably rather eat processed foods. For many of us, those foods taste so much better than 5 fruits and vegetables a day. But for diabetics, there’s an added incentive to boost fiber. Fiber actually resists digestion and absorption by our bodies. Since fiber slows down the digestive process and the absorption of carbohydrates, it can blunt the rise in blood glucose. So your blood sugar can take longer to rise after meals and it also might not rise as high”

“ There is good stress, and there is bad stress. The good kind keeps us motivated. The bad kind can wear us down. Stress can be a complicating factor for people who are trying to control their blood sugar. Any type of illness, infection, or injury causes stress on the body and as a result, our bodies need more energy to fight back. When there is stress, hormones are released, causing blood glucose to rise. These hormones also inhibit the affect of insulin, which helps control blood sugar. For diabetics, this is a challenge. One example would be that a person notices glucose levels as many as 70 points higher on certain days, and the answer could be that certain stressful events…perhaps on the job or in personal life…. are to blame.”

Week of 2-7-05

“ What is the link between diabetes and depression? And can one cause or lead to the other? Studies show that the two are related but there is no proof that either illness causes the other. What is known is that treating depression can help both your mood and your diabetes control. Depression is at least twice as common in people with diabetes, and stress can temporarily raise blood glucose. Having diabetes can be stressful in itself because it’s not easy to cope with every day. If you feel depressed, you might lose your will power to eat right and exercise and monitor your blood sugar. And when blood glucose is high, your energy level is down and the resulting physical problems can damage you emotionally.”

“ Ninety percent of people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes suffer nerve damage or diabetic neuropathy. It could be that too much glucose interferes with their circulation and their nerves don’t get enough nutrients. Signs of nerve damage include a tingling or burning sensation in the arms, legs and feet, usually worse at night. Or perhaps a person is less sensitive to heat and cold or there is numbness. For some people, these symptoms are just annoying. For others, there is severe pain which makes sleep and work difficult. Many studies prove that controlling diabetes can reduce the risk of neuropathy, or nerve damage, by up to 60 percent.”

Week of 1-31-05

“ What do you do if your husband or wife has diabetes and refuses to talk about it? This is a common and frustrating problem for many diabetics and their spouses. A typical case might involve a man with Type 2 diabetes whose wife doesn’t think that he takes care of himself. One way she could get involved is to join her husband on doctor’s visits and sessions with a diabetes educator. In fact, there are support groups for diabetics and their families. If your husband or wife refuses to let you become involved, then try talking to his or her doctor. But remember that the doctor is limited in what can be discussed with you…..until your spouse gives the okay.”

“Can carbohydrates from some foods raise your blood sugar faster than other foods? About 20 years ago, researchers developed a ‘Glycemic Index’, which ranks foods according to how they affect blood sugar. The index helped show that not all carbohydrates raise blood glucose by the same amount. For example, the research showed that potatoes raised blood glucose more quickly than fruit, while beans raised blood glucose more slowly. While the Glycemic Index was considered valuable research, its use is not currently recommended by the American Diabetes Association, which maintains that it is more important to focus on the total amount of carbohydrates in a meal, rather than on the source of the carbohydrate.”

Week of 1-24-05

“ One of the biggest concerns for diabetics is how their illness affects organs like their eyes. Researchers in England studied patients with Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. The blood pressure goal for one group was tight: a reading of 150 over 85. The goal for the other group was less restrictive: 180 over 105. Researchers found that those diabetics whose blood pressure was tightly controlled experienced less damage to their eyes than those whose blood pressure was higher. In short, the study shows that those people who keep their blood pressure under control can dramatically slow the progression of retinal damage, reducing the risk of blindness by about 25-percent!”

“ Don’t underestimate the power of aspirin in the treatment of diabetes. Daily aspirin is usually recommended for people who are at increased risk of heart disease because it thins the blood and takes strain off the heart. Diabetics are at risk for heart disease, and while many are on an aspirin regiment, many others are not. A report in the Archives of Internal Medicine shows that women age 50 to 64 and men and women younger than the age of 50 are under using aspirin. This is an effective and inexpensive method for diabetics to help prevent a heart attack. Doctors may play a key role in making diabetic patients aware of the importance of taking aspirin.”

Week of 1-17-05

“ Ever notice that your blood sugar is higher in the morning when you wake up, compared to when you went to bed? It’s almost like you were sleep walking and ate cake and ice cream during the middle of the night! Some people have reported glucose levels before bed at a level of 120, but find an increase of up to 200 the next morning. There may be several reasons, like whether you ate too much the night before, which could keep blood sugar high all night long. Cutting back on food intake plus a little exercise and medication might help. Keep in mind what the body was designed to do: the liver normally releases glucose during the night to provide energy for when you sleep and to start the next day. But remember that too much of a good thing……… is not good at all.”

“ What does alcohol do to blood sugar? It’s a common misperception that alcohol turns to sugar and raises blood glucose. Actually, the opposite is true. Alcohol can actually lower blood glucose. Alcohol is more like a fat than a carbohydrate. When calories from alcohol are not used for immediate energy, they are changed to fat and stored. Alcohol also inhibits the liver from making glucose, so if you haven’t eaten, you run the risk of low blood sugar, a process than can last 8 to 12 hours after you had your last drink. Best to talk with your doctor about this, but as a general guideline, the American Diabetes Association says that women should have no more than one drink a day, and no more than two for men. And never take extra insulin or medicine with alcohol, and don’t drink on an empty stomach.”

Week of 1-10-05

“High blood sugar can affect your mood and your ability to think. A study published in the medical journal “Diabetes Care” focused on twenty patients with Type 2 Diabetes who were about 61 years old. These patients were receiving various kinds of treatment, including medicine and insulin. Researchers found that an excessive rise in blood glucose adversely affected not only the speed with which the patients processed information, but also that it impaired their ability to remember. They also reported reduced feelings of happiness, agitation, and anxiety. Patients with abnormally high blood sugar also reported feeling lethargic and tired.”

“A person’s waistline, rather than a person’s weight, is the truest indicator of an increased risk for diabetes or heart disease. Reuters Health Information quotes a health expert who says fat on the stomach or abdomen, commonly known as “beer gut”, is more dangerous than extra pounds on the thighs. That’s because the fat cells around the waste pump out chemicals that can damage the insulin system. Thicker waistlines may double to quadruple the risks, compared to people whose waistlines are thinner. Men with waistlines of 40 or more and women whose waists are more than 35 inches are at an incredibly high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.”

Week of 1-3-05

“Many of us have diabetes and don’t even know it. For some, this chronic illness won’t be diagnosed until it has caused serious damage, like a heart attack or kidney failure. In fact, it’s estimated that one out of every ten Central Ohioans will develop diabetes, an unforgiving disease which hinders the body’s ability to process sugar. That’s the bad news. The good news is that major damage can be prevented by first confirming diabetes through blood glucose testing, and then making a commitment to control it. There are several types, but most common are Type 1 and Type 2. People with Type 1 control their blood sugar with insulin, Type 2 through diet, exercise and sometimes medication. But the key is consistent monitoring of blood sugar.”

“What are the warning signs of diabetes? Maybe you feel tired all the time, your vision is blurry, you are thirsty, you have cuts or bruises that take a long time to heal, or you have tingling or numbness in your feet. Victims of Type 1 diabetes need insulin shots or an insulin pump to control blood sugar. Those with Type 2 control it through diet, exercise, or possibly medication. If you are over the age of 45, you have a family history of diabetes and you are overweight, you are at risk for Type 2 diabetes. It used to be that people were considered “borderline diabetic” or “pre-diabetic”. But those terms are no longer recognized. It’s kind of like being a little bit pregnant: either you are, or you aren’t.”