| What to Eat at the Ballpark | |
 Stadium food is notoriously high in carbs, sodium, and calories, not to mention unhealthy additives. Here's how to navigate the concession stand safely. Read the article. | |
Friday, July 29, 2011
What To Eat At The Ballpark
Chilled Cucumber Soup
| Chilled Cucumber Soup | |
 Cucumbers and garlic are both in season now, and this soup puts them to good use, combining them with blood-sugar lowering, tummy trimming, diabetes superfood ingredients. Get the recipe. | |
11 Foods You Should Be Eating
 | 11 Foods You Should Be Eating |
 These lifesaving, anti-diabetes foods should be in your kitchen right now. Find out what they are. | |
Thursday, July 28, 2011
More Recipes-Diabetic Connect
Chicken Picatta: Easy, Elegant, and Only 1g Carbs!
Fine dining doesn't have to be expensive or complicated! This new chicken picatta recipe will dress up your dinner table—and it only takes a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time. Surprise your family tonight!
New Breakfast Idea: Maple-Bacon Oven Pancake Imagine all of these great tastes rolled into one: eggs, bacon, melted cheddar cheese, pancakes and maple syrup. Just 12 minutes in your oven and this fabulous dish is ready to eat—with only 13g carbs! |
5 Fun Diabetic-Friendly Snacks-Diabetic Connect
5 Fun Diabetic-Friendly Snacks
When you get the munchies, you can still stick to your diabetic diet. Here's a great variety of recipes for fun, delicious snacks that can double as side dishes too. Spicy fries, cheesy bruschetta, tasty bean salad ... mmmmm! Try them all!
When you get the munchies, you can still stick to your diabetic diet. Here's a great variety of recipes for fun, delicious snacks that can double as side dishes too. Spicy fries, cheesy bruschetta, tasty bean salad ... mmmmm! Try them all!
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Recipe of the Week-Diabetes Daily
Sauteed Fresh Corn with Herbs / 17g carbohydrates
"It's the heart of summertime, and the perfect time of year for fresh corn. If you're like me, you hate getting the kernels stuck in your teeth. Instead of eating it off the cob, I slice it and saute it in some butter. With a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a little salt and pepper it tastes like it's off the cob, but without the dental floss!" - Elizabeth
"It's the heart of summertime, and the perfect time of year for fresh corn. If you're like me, you hate getting the kernels stuck in your teeth. Instead of eating it off the cob, I slice it and saute it in some butter. With a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a little salt and pepper it tastes like it's off the cob, but without the dental floss!" - Elizabeth
Diabetes Outrage-Diabetes Daily
Diabetes Outrage
Today, we need you to take action.
The United Nations is hosting a summit on Non-Communicable Diseases in September. We need President Obama to attend and demand better support for people with diabetes.
It is an outrage that insulin was discovered 90 years ago and children are still dying of diabetes. It's an outrage that 1/2 a billion people will have diabetes in 20 years.
Please visit the International Diabetes Federation's "O IS FOR OUTRAGE" website. There you can fill out a post card that will be sent to the President of the United States on your behalf.
1. Visit O_is_for_OUTRAGE
2. Select a postcard or write your own message.
3. Submit your form to the IDF
4. The IDF will handle all of the mailing.
Today, we need you to take action. The United Nations is hosting a summit on Non-Communicable Diseases in September. We need President Obama to attend and demand better support for people with diabetes.
It is an outrage that insulin was discovered 90 years ago and children are still dying of diabetes. It's an outrage that 1/2 a billion people will have diabetes in 20 years.
Please visit the International Diabetes Federation's "O IS FOR OUTRAGE" website. There you can fill out a post card that will be sent to the President of the United States on your behalf.
1. Visit O_is_for_OUTRAGE
2. Select a postcard or write your own message.
3. Submit your form to the IDF
4. The IDF will handle all of the mailing.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Assemble Your Own (Medical) A and More-Team-Reverse Diabetes
Assemble Your Own (Medical) A-Team
Mr. T would surely pity the fools who didn’t recruit all available medical professionals to help manage their diabetes. Your regular doctor may watch over your diabetes in general. But because it affects your whole body, diabetes takes your own personal A-Team to be properly managed. It’s up to you to recruit the professionals you need, and when you do, you’ll be more in control of your diabetes. Here are eight ways to ensure that you’re getting the attention, information, and treatment that’s best for you.
See a specialist. If your blood-sugar readings aren’t showing any improvement, even after following your doctor’s advice closely for at least 12 weeks, ask to see a diabetes specialist, also called a diabetologist. This doctor specializes in treating people with diabetes and is usually an endocrinologist. However, not all endocrinologists specialize in diabetes, so ask before making an appointment.
Get some diabetes education. Ask your primary care physician for a referral to a certified diabetes educator. This professional, usually a registered nurse, dietitian, or pharmacist, has specialized diabetes training. He or she can help you learn and apply behaviors that will help improve your blood-sugar control, answer questions about your medications, show you how to give yourself insulin shots, check your blood sugar, and more. Many are employed in a Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) program whose services are reimbursed by Medicare. If your doctor doesn’t offer DSME in his office, call your local hospital to request diabetes education.
Check in with a dietitian. What you eat and when you eat it affects your blood sugar more than any other lifestyle choice. If you have diabetes, you need an eating plan tailored just for you to help you meet your blood-sugar goals. The person who can provide that plan is a registered dietician (RD) who specializes in helping people with diabetes. She’ll help you understand healthy food choices and plan meals to fit your lifestyle. Not all registered dietitians specialize in diabetes, so make sure you are referred to one who does. Some RDs are also certified diabetes educators.
Look for an ophthalmologist. Chronic high blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the retina (the inner layer of your eye), increasing your chances of vision disorders and even blindness. You need to have an annual comprehensive eye exam with an ophthalmologist. He will dilate your pupils to get an extra-close look for any changes in your eyes. If you are referred to a new eye doctor, be sure to ask if he is familiar with spotting and treating diabetic eye disorders.
Go to the dentist twice a year. You learned when you were a kid that sugar causes cavities. Well, having high blood sugar can wreak havoc on your teeth, too. Bacteria that cause gum disease and cavities are more opportunistic—that is, nastier—when blood sugar is not well controlled. That’s why people with diabetes are more prone to gum disease, which has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. In addition to regular dental visits, you need to brush and floss daily, and give yourself a monthly checkup for any sores, tenderness, or redness of your gums.
Step up to a foot expert. It’s awfully hard to imagine that a simple blister or cut could lead to foot amputation, but if the injury turns into an ulcer that becomes infected, it’s all too possible. That’s why it’s critical to take good care of your feet. A podiatrist will check for any sores, blisters, bruises, cracks, or cuts that are resistant to healing, as well as check for tingling or numbness in your feet. He can test for nerve problems to see if you can detect different sensations. Ask your doctor how often you should see a podiatrist, and make sure to go to one who specializes in caring for people with diabetes.
Pump up with a personal trainer. More and more doctors recommend personal trainers, exercise professionals who will work with you to design a fitness program that meets your goals. But you need to express a willingness to go. If you really want to stick with an exercise program, trainers who have experience working with people with diabetes can be especially helpful. So always ask before you sign up. Your local hospital or diabetes support group can also provide a recommendation.
Seek counseling. Mental health professionals such as psychologists, social workers, or family counselors can offer support for dealing with the personal and emotional side of living with diabetes. Social workers may be able to connect you with resources such as free medication programs for people who can’t afford their drugs or free transportation to doctor’s appointments. Psychologists and family counselors will be able to offer individual or family counseling to help you deal with the stress and depression that sometimes accompanies a chronic disease.
Featured Recipe
Citrus & Spinach Salad
As a perfect summertime salad, fresh leaf spinach is tossed with fruit and their juices and then drizzled with a creamy and sweet balsamic dressing. A few crumbles of prosciutto are sprinkled on top, so you get all of the flavor without adding much fat!
Mr. T would surely pity the fools who didn’t recruit all available medical professionals to help manage their diabetes. Your regular doctor may watch over your diabetes in general. But because it affects your whole body, diabetes takes your own personal A-Team to be properly managed. It’s up to you to recruit the professionals you need, and when you do, you’ll be more in control of your diabetes. Here are eight ways to ensure that you’re getting the attention, information, and treatment that’s best for you.
See a specialist. If your blood-sugar readings aren’t showing any improvement, even after following your doctor’s advice closely for at least 12 weeks, ask to see a diabetes specialist, also called a diabetologist. This doctor specializes in treating people with diabetes and is usually an endocrinologist. However, not all endocrinologists specialize in diabetes, so ask before making an appointment.
Get some diabetes education. Ask your primary care physician for a referral to a certified diabetes educator. This professional, usually a registered nurse, dietitian, or pharmacist, has specialized diabetes training. He or she can help you learn and apply behaviors that will help improve your blood-sugar control, answer questions about your medications, show you how to give yourself insulin shots, check your blood sugar, and more. Many are employed in a Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) program whose services are reimbursed by Medicare. If your doctor doesn’t offer DSME in his office, call your local hospital to request diabetes education.
Check in with a dietitian. What you eat and when you eat it affects your blood sugar more than any other lifestyle choice. If you have diabetes, you need an eating plan tailored just for you to help you meet your blood-sugar goals. The person who can provide that plan is a registered dietician (RD) who specializes in helping people with diabetes. She’ll help you understand healthy food choices and plan meals to fit your lifestyle. Not all registered dietitians specialize in diabetes, so make sure you are referred to one who does. Some RDs are also certified diabetes educators.
Look for an ophthalmologist. Chronic high blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the retina (the inner layer of your eye), increasing your chances of vision disorders and even blindness. You need to have an annual comprehensive eye exam with an ophthalmologist. He will dilate your pupils to get an extra-close look for any changes in your eyes. If you are referred to a new eye doctor, be sure to ask if he is familiar with spotting and treating diabetic eye disorders.
Go to the dentist twice a year. You learned when you were a kid that sugar causes cavities. Well, having high blood sugar can wreak havoc on your teeth, too. Bacteria that cause gum disease and cavities are more opportunistic—that is, nastier—when blood sugar is not well controlled. That’s why people with diabetes are more prone to gum disease, which has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. In addition to regular dental visits, you need to brush and floss daily, and give yourself a monthly checkup for any sores, tenderness, or redness of your gums.
Step up to a foot expert. It’s awfully hard to imagine that a simple blister or cut could lead to foot amputation, but if the injury turns into an ulcer that becomes infected, it’s all too possible. That’s why it’s critical to take good care of your feet. A podiatrist will check for any sores, blisters, bruises, cracks, or cuts that are resistant to healing, as well as check for tingling or numbness in your feet. He can test for nerve problems to see if you can detect different sensations. Ask your doctor how often you should see a podiatrist, and make sure to go to one who specializes in caring for people with diabetes.
Pump up with a personal trainer. More and more doctors recommend personal trainers, exercise professionals who will work with you to design a fitness program that meets your goals. But you need to express a willingness to go. If you really want to stick with an exercise program, trainers who have experience working with people with diabetes can be especially helpful. So always ask before you sign up. Your local hospital or diabetes support group can also provide a recommendation.
Seek counseling. Mental health professionals such as psychologists, social workers, or family counselors can offer support for dealing with the personal and emotional side of living with diabetes. Social workers may be able to connect you with resources such as free medication programs for people who can’t afford their drugs or free transportation to doctor’s appointments. Psychologists and family counselors will be able to offer individual or family counseling to help you deal with the stress and depression that sometimes accompanies a chronic disease.
Featured Recipe
Citrus & Spinach Salad As a perfect summertime salad, fresh leaf spinach is tossed with fruit and their juices and then drizzled with a creamy and sweet balsamic dressing. A few crumbles of prosciutto are sprinkled on top, so you get all of the flavor without adding much fat!
Serves 6
Ingredients:
Salad
2 large navel oranges
1 large ruby-red grapefruit
6 cups baby spinach leaves, washed
1 small cantaloupe, peeled and cut into bite-size chunks
4 scallions, white parts only, very thinly sliced
4 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto, cut into shreds
Dressing
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons light cream
2 teaspoons honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Salad
2 large navel oranges
1 large ruby-red grapefruit
6 cups baby spinach leaves, washed
1 small cantaloupe, peeled and cut into bite-size chunks
4 scallions, white parts only, very thinly sliced
4 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto, cut into shreds
Dressing
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons light cream
2 teaspoons honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Preparation:
1 Make the dressing: Place the vinegar, oil, cream, honey, salt, and pepper into a pint-size jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Cover and shake until well blended.
2 Make the salad: Use a citrus zester or peeler to remove fine shreds of zest from one orange. Set aside. Working over a medium bowl to catch the juices, peel the oranges and grapefruit using a serrated fruit knife; be sure to remove all of the white pith. Cut between the membranes of the fruits, lift out the fruit sections, and place in the bowl with the juices.
3 Add 2 tablespoons of the combined grapefruit and orange juices to the dressing and shake again to blend. Taste and add more citrus juice, salt, and pepper, if desired.
4 Place the spinach in a large serving bowl. Add the orange and grapefruit sections and any juices in the bowl, the cantaloupe, and scallions. Toss to evenly distribute the ingredients among the spinach leaves. Shake the dressing once more, then pour it over the salad and toss again. Scatter the shredded prosciutto over the top of the salad and sprinkle on the orange zest. Serve immediately.
1 Make the dressing: Place the vinegar, oil, cream, honey, salt, and pepper into a pint-size jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Cover and shake until well blended.
2 Make the salad: Use a citrus zester or peeler to remove fine shreds of zest from one orange. Set aside. Working over a medium bowl to catch the juices, peel the oranges and grapefruit using a serrated fruit knife; be sure to remove all of the white pith. Cut between the membranes of the fruits, lift out the fruit sections, and place in the bowl with the juices.
3 Add 2 tablespoons of the combined grapefruit and orange juices to the dressing and shake again to blend. Taste and add more citrus juice, salt, and pepper, if desired.
4 Place the spinach in a large serving bowl. Add the orange and grapefruit sections and any juices in the bowl, the cantaloupe, and scallions. Toss to evenly distribute the ingredients among the spinach leaves. Shake the dressing once more, then pour it over the salad and toss again. Scatter the shredded prosciutto over the top of the salad and sprinkle on the orange zest. Serve immediately.
Per serving: 193 cal, 11 g fat (3 g sat), 19 g carbs, 7 g protein, 3 g fiber, 21 mg chol, 471 mg sodium
Great Ideas
Great Ideas
5 Safe, Smart Exercise Tips
Exercise improves your body’s use of insulin. In fact, putting your muscles into action is like flooring your car’s accelerator—it instantly boosts the demand for fuel. Instead of gasoline, your body’s high-octane juice is glucose. Exercise enough and your body will pull glucose straight from the bloodstream, meaning lower blood sugar for hours after you work out. When exercising during these summer months, take a little care with these five tips.
Drink lots of water. Lots more than you may think. Experts recommend at least one-half to one cup of water every 15 minutes. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty, either. If needed, set a watch that beeps every 15 minutes to remind you to sip.
Avoid hot stuff. If it’s particularly hot outside, find an indoor venue for your workout—at home, in a gym, or a mall. But don’t just pay attention to the temperature. Be wary of humid weather because it will be difficult for your body to cool down. Exercise indoors when the heat index (a measurement based on temperature and humidity) is 105 degrees or higher.
Breathe through hard efforts. Do you ever find yourself holding your breath while exercising? This can be dangerous, especially for people who have diabetes. Not only does it raise your blood pressure, but it also raises the pressure within your eyes and can worsen eye diseases such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. When you are lifting weights or exerting yourself, make a point to exhale during the hard part and inhale as you relax.
Keep tabs on hypoglycemia. When you’re physically active, it’s easy to mistake symptoms of hypoglycemia for the effects of exercise. Among the signs of dangerously low blood sugar are profuse sweating, rapid heartbeat, trembling, extreme hunger, difficulty thinking, blurred vision, loss of coordination, and “just not feeling right.” If you suspect you have hypoglycemia, stop exercising immediately and eat some raisins, hard candy, water with fruit juice added to it, or glucose tablets.
If you feel pain, stop. Exercise is supposed to make you feel better, not knock you flat. So, if you start to feel uncomfortable or short of breath when you are exercising, immediately reduce your degree of exertion or stop exercising altogether.
Drink lots of water. Lots more than you may think. Experts recommend at least one-half to one cup of water every 15 minutes. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty, either. If needed, set a watch that beeps every 15 minutes to remind you to sip.
Avoid hot stuff. If it’s particularly hot outside, find an indoor venue for your workout—at home, in a gym, or a mall. But don’t just pay attention to the temperature. Be wary of humid weather because it will be difficult for your body to cool down. Exercise indoors when the heat index (a measurement based on temperature and humidity) is 105 degrees or higher.
Breathe through hard efforts. Do you ever find yourself holding your breath while exercising? This can be dangerous, especially for people who have diabetes. Not only does it raise your blood pressure, but it also raises the pressure within your eyes and can worsen eye diseases such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. When you are lifting weights or exerting yourself, make a point to exhale during the hard part and inhale as you relax.
Keep tabs on hypoglycemia. When you’re physically active, it’s easy to mistake symptoms of hypoglycemia for the effects of exercise. Among the signs of dangerously low blood sugar are profuse sweating, rapid heartbeat, trembling, extreme hunger, difficulty thinking, blurred vision, loss of coordination, and “just not feeling right.” If you suspect you have hypoglycemia, stop exercising immediately and eat some raisins, hard candy, water with fruit juice added to it, or glucose tablets.
If you feel pain, stop. Exercise is supposed to make you feel better, not knock you flat. So, if you start to feel uncomfortable or short of breath when you are exercising, immediately reduce your degree of exertion or stop exercising altogether.
Chilled Seafood Salad-dLife
 | Chilled Seafood Salad |
 An elegant salad of shrimp and scallops with a hint of fresh lemon. Get the recipe here. Check out the dLife Recipe Finder to find more delicious favorites. Afterward, be sure to return to share your review of these recipes. | |
Could It Be Neuropathy?
 | Could it Be Neuropathy? |
 Maybe that tingling sensation is diabetic peripheral neuropathy, but then again maybe it's not. Do you know the signs to look for and what treatment options are available? Take the quiz and take control. | |
Monday, July 25, 2011
Steamed About Diabetes? Let's Vent
| Steamed about Diabetes? Let's Vent! |
 If you have ever felt angry, frightened, or overwhelmed about diabetes, this online discussion is for you. Our members are venting, and they're also offering uplifting advice and support. No one really understands what it's like to have diabetes until they have it themselves. Here's your chance to say what's on your mind and learn from others who really know how you feel.  |
Vitamin D May Cut Risk of Diabetes
| Vitamin D May Cut Risk of Diabetes |
 Have scientists found a simple way to help prevent diabetes? Exciting new research suggests that the higher your level of vitamin D, the lower your chance of developing type 2 diabetes. And vitamin D costs only pennies per pill—or you can get it for free from sunshine. |
Video: Which Drug Combination Should You Avoid
Video: Which Drug Combinations Should You Avoid?
Do you take diabetes medicine at the same time as other pills? Some common drugs can be dangerous or even deadly when taken together. And sometimes one medication can reduce the effectiveness of another. In this brief video, a pharmacist identifies drug combinations you should beware of. And that includes both prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies.
Do you take diabetes medicine at the same time as other pills? Some common drugs can be dangerous or even deadly when taken together. And sometimes one medication can reduce the effectiveness of another. In this brief video, a pharmacist identifies drug combinations you should beware of. And that includes both prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies.
More on diabetes medications:
Type 2 Diabetes Medications
Amylinomimetics for Diabetes
Thiazolidinediones for Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 Diabetes Medications
Amylinomimetics for Diabetes
Thiazolidinediones for Type 2 Diabetes
Friday, July 15, 2011
How Cool Is This?!?-Meet Coco, 1st Disney Character With Diabetes
Meet Coco, 1st Disney Character with Diabetes
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At this year's Children With Diabetes conference, Disney introduced a special new character named Coco.
Coco is a young monkey with type 1 diabetes! Or, as Leighann Calentine affectionately mused, a MWD.
She sports a trendy diabetes bracelet and is friends with Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and the rest of the gang.
Coco is the star of an upcoming book called Coco and Goofy's Goofy Day.
Lorraine, who blogs about her son Caleb's experience with diabetes, explains the moral of the story:
Coco shows Goofy that she can go to the party, play games, win contests, and eat cake and ice cream. This is an important message that we’ve seen delivered in other stories. Lilly Diabetes and Disney take the story a progressive step further.
Coco and other guests partake in but don’t overdo it when it comes to treats. Goofy however, because it’s his birthday, chooses to eat anything and everything he can. As a result of these choices, Coco and others are still going strong and playing and having fun at the end of the party. Goofy, on the other hand, doesn’t feel well and his friends have to take him home in the wagon he brought for Coco because he was worried she would need it because of her diabetes.
The lesson: moderation is important for all people, not just those with diabetes.
Thank you, Disney, for giving kids with diabetes someone like them to stand next to Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy!
Your Turn
Future books in the series will tackle diabetes topics faced by kids and tweens. What topics do you think they should cover?
This article comes to you from the link below:
Savory Summer Grilling and More-Diabetic Connect Recipes
Savory Summer Grilling That's Low in Carbs
Here's a super selection of sizzling recipes for the grill that will delight your family or guests. They're so good that your only problem may be deciding which one to try first! And they're amazingly low in carbs, from 9g to as low as 1g per serving.
With only 151 calories and 6g carbs, this tasty tuna salad can help you lose weight and watch your carbs too. It's a satisfying meal that's rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber. And with only 5 ingredients, you can make it in minutes!
They're fun to make and fun to eat—and so refreshing on a hot summer day! Blend juicy strawberries and dairy-fresh yogurt for a creamy frozen treat that's good for you—with only 6g carbs!
Here's a super selection of sizzling recipes for the grill that will delight your family or guests. They're so good that your only problem may be deciding which one to try first! And they're amazingly low in carbs, from 9g to as low as 1g per serving.
Grilled Chicken Adobo
Mini Burgers
Hot Shrimp with Cool Salsa
Grilled Portabella with Mozzarella Salad
Mini Burgers
Hot Shrimp with Cool Salsa
Grilled Portabella with Mozzarella Salad
Light Lunch: Tuna Salad is Low in Calories and Carbs
Cool Off with Strawberry Yogurt Ice Pops!
Your Instant Kitchen Makeover-Reverse Diabetes
Your Instant Kitchen Makeover
We all love makeover shows on television. The ugly duckling gets turned into a beautiful princess. Or the too-small house is renovated so the down-on-its-luck family can have a chance at a better life. What’s not to love? Makeovers have all the elements of a great story—and, of course, the big, happy reveal at the end.
Why not have your own diabetes-busting makeover? The special guest star in this makeover: your kitchen. A well-stocked, kitchen is your greatest ally to eat better and live healthier. Keeping the right foods at your fingertips lets you put together fast, blood-sugar friendly meals and grab healthy treats when you want a snack. You’ll be able to enjoy food without being sidetracked by temptations that makes blood sugar spike and packs on pounds.
The first step is to clear your kitchen of foods with too many calories, refined carbohydrates, fat, or sugar. Pick up every item; if it’s unhealthy, give it away; if it’s been there for over six months, throw it out. Put items that other family members eat in a designated (and hard to reach) area. Stock up on the right edibles; you can add a few to your shopping list each week.
Let’s turn on the makeover magic!
Pantry
Toss, give away, or move:
Breakfast cereals high in sugar
Cornflakes
Butter-flavored microwave popcorn
Candy
Canned fruit in heavy syrup
Cereal bars
Cookies, chips, crackers
Corn and sunflower oil
Cream soups
Non-diet soda and juice drinks
Packaged foods with hydrogenated oils or trans fats
Sugar-sweetened iced tea or lemonade
Shortening
White bread and rice
Restock with:
Applesauce
Barley
Broth, low-sodium
Cereal, 3 grams of fiber per serving
Cooking spray
Fruit, canned in juice
Garlic, onions, fresh
Legumes, canned or dried
Mushrooms
Oatmeal, rolled oats
Oils, olive or canola
Pasta, whole-grain
Peanut butter
Popcorn kernels
Potatoes, sweet potatoes, yams
Raisins
Rice, brown
Salmon, canned
Sugar substitute
Soups, low-sodium broth-based
Tomatoes, tomato sauce, no salt added
Tuna, canned in water
Vegetables, canned
Vinegars
Whole-grain breads
Whole-grain crackers
Whole-wheat flour
Refrigerator
Toss, give away, or move:
Full-fat cheeses, mayonnaise
Full-fat milk products, sour cream, yogurt
Sodas, sweetened teas, juice “drinks”
Butter, margarine with trans fats
Restock with:
Margarine, 0 trans/saturated fats
Hard cheeses such as Parmesan
Eggs and/or egg substitute
Milk, yogurt low or nonfat
Lean beef, chicken, turkey, or pork
Fruit and vegetables, assorted fresh
Freezer
Toss, give away, or move:
Breaded fish sticks, fish fillets, and chicken
French fries and potato nuggets
Full-fat ice cream
Vegetables in butter or cream sauces
Frozen dinners and snack foods
Bacon and full-fat breakfast sausage
Restock with:
Breads, whole-grain
Fruit, no sugar
Sugar-free frozen fruit pops
Chicken breasts
Edamame
Fish fillets, shelled shrimp, scallops, unbreaded
Ground turkey or lean ground beef
Meatless burgers
Vegetables, no sauce
Featured Recipe
Potato & Zucchini Tortilla
The tortilla, Spain’s most famous tapas, or snack, is made from the simplest of ingredients—eggs, onions, and potatoes—cooked like a flat omelet and served warm or cold, cut into wedges. Like an artist on a blank canvas the tortilla begs creativity, and all kinds of extra, healthy ingredients can be added, such as asparagus, peas and mushrooms.Serves 8
We all love makeover shows on television. The ugly duckling gets turned into a beautiful princess. Or the too-small house is renovated so the down-on-its-luck family can have a chance at a better life. What’s not to love? Makeovers have all the elements of a great story—and, of course, the big, happy reveal at the end.
Why not have your own diabetes-busting makeover? The special guest star in this makeover: your kitchen. A well-stocked, kitchen is your greatest ally to eat better and live healthier. Keeping the right foods at your fingertips lets you put together fast, blood-sugar friendly meals and grab healthy treats when you want a snack. You’ll be able to enjoy food without being sidetracked by temptations that makes blood sugar spike and packs on pounds.
The first step is to clear your kitchen of foods with too many calories, refined carbohydrates, fat, or sugar. Pick up every item; if it’s unhealthy, give it away; if it’s been there for over six months, throw it out. Put items that other family members eat in a designated (and hard to reach) area. Stock up on the right edibles; you can add a few to your shopping list each week.
Let’s turn on the makeover magic!
Pantry
Toss, give away, or move:
Breakfast cereals high in sugar
Cornflakes
Butter-flavored microwave popcorn
Candy
Canned fruit in heavy syrup
Cereal bars
Cookies, chips, crackers
Corn and sunflower oil
Cream soups
Non-diet soda and juice drinks
Packaged foods with hydrogenated oils or trans fats
Sugar-sweetened iced tea or lemonade
Shortening
White bread and rice
Restock with:
Applesauce
Barley
Broth, low-sodium
Cereal, 3 grams of fiber per serving
Cooking spray
Fruit, canned in juice
Garlic, onions, fresh
Legumes, canned or dried
Mushrooms
Oatmeal, rolled oats
Oils, olive or canola
Pasta, whole-grain
Peanut butter
Popcorn kernels
Potatoes, sweet potatoes, yams
Raisins
Rice, brown
Salmon, canned
Sugar substitute
Soups, low-sodium broth-based
Tomatoes, tomato sauce, no salt added
Tuna, canned in water
Vegetables, canned
Vinegars
Whole-grain breads
Whole-grain crackers
Whole-wheat flour
Refrigerator
Toss, give away, or move:
Full-fat cheeses, mayonnaise
Full-fat milk products, sour cream, yogurt
Sodas, sweetened teas, juice “drinks”
Butter, margarine with trans fats
Restock with:
Margarine, 0 trans/saturated fats
Hard cheeses such as Parmesan
Eggs and/or egg substitute
Milk, yogurt low or nonfat
Lean beef, chicken, turkey, or pork
Fruit and vegetables, assorted fresh
Freezer
Toss, give away, or move:
Breaded fish sticks, fish fillets, and chicken
French fries and potato nuggets
Full-fat ice cream
Vegetables in butter or cream sauces
Frozen dinners and snack foods
Bacon and full-fat breakfast sausage
Restock with:
Breads, whole-grain
Fruit, no sugar
Sugar-free frozen fruit pops
Chicken breasts
Edamame
Fish fillets, shelled shrimp, scallops, unbreaded
Ground turkey or lean ground beef
Meatless burgers
Vegetables, no sauce
Featured Recipe
Potato & Zucchini TortillaThe tortilla, Spain’s most famous tapas, or snack, is made from the simplest of ingredients—eggs, onions, and potatoes—cooked like a flat omelet and served warm or cold, cut into wedges. Like an artist on a blank canvas the tortilla begs creativity, and all kinds of extra, healthy ingredients can be added, such as asparagus, peas and mushrooms.
Ingredients:
1 1/2 pounds new potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 red onion, finely chopped
1 zucchini, diced
2 slices reduced-fat bacon, chopped
6 eggs
2 tablespoons
Chopped fresh parsley
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 1/2 pounds new potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 red onion, finely chopped
1 zucchini, diced
2 slices reduced-fat bacon, chopped
6 eggs
2 tablespoons
Chopped fresh parsley
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Preparation:
1 Place the potato cubes in a saucepan and add water to cover. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat slightly and cook for 3 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
2 Heat the oil in a heavy 10-inch nonstick skillet. Add the potatoes, onion, zucchini, and bacon, and cook over a moderate heat until the potatoes are tender and lightly golden, about 10 minutes, turning and stirring from time to time.
3 Preheat the broiler to high. In a bowl, beat the eggs with 1 tablespoon cold water. Add the parsley and pepper to taste. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables in the skillet and cook until the egg has set, about 3 to 4 minutes, lifting the edges to allow the uncooked egg mixture to run onto the pan.
4 When there is just a little uncooked egg on the top, place the pan under the hot broiler and cook for 2 minutes to set the top. Slide the tortilla out onto a plate or board and allow to cool for 2 to 3 minutes. Cut into small wedges and serve warm, or leave to cool completely before cutting and serving.
1 Place the potato cubes in a saucepan and add water to cover. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat slightly and cook for 3 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
2 Heat the oil in a heavy 10-inch nonstick skillet. Add the potatoes, onion, zucchini, and bacon, and cook over a moderate heat until the potatoes are tender and lightly golden, about 10 minutes, turning and stirring from time to time.
3 Preheat the broiler to high. In a bowl, beat the eggs with 1 tablespoon cold water. Add the parsley and pepper to taste. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables in the skillet and cook until the egg has set, about 3 to 4 minutes, lifting the edges to allow the uncooked egg mixture to run onto the pan.
4 When there is just a little uncooked egg on the top, place the pan under the hot broiler and cook for 2 minutes to set the top. Slide the tortilla out onto a plate or board and allow to cool for 2 to 3 minutes. Cut into small wedges and serve warm, or leave to cool completely before cutting and serving.
Per serving: 161 cal, 8 g fat (2 g sat), 16 g carbs, 7 g protein, 2 g fiber, 162 mg chol, 95 mg sodium
Great Ideas
Great Ideas
Rx for Better Sleep
It may seem a hard to connect the dots between sleep and diabetes. But the quality of your sleep is directly tied to your overall health and blood-sugar levels. We might joke about someone snoring so loud it makes the windows rattle, but that could be a sign of a potentially dangerous sleep disorder called sleep apnea. When you have sleep apnea, your breathing stops or becomes very shallow hundreds of times a night, depriving your body of oxygen, increasing your heart rate, and preventing you from entering the important stage of deep sleep that restores your body and mind. Here are some ways to sleep more soundly.
Check for symptoms. When the soft tissue in the back of the throat relaxes, it blocks the passage of air until your airway opens, often with a loud choking or gasping sound. You are more likely to have sleep apnea if you snore loudly or have a large neck—women with a neck size of more than 16 inches; men, 17 inches. Other signs include waking up three or more times a night to go to the bathroom and feeling sleepy despite getting eight or more hours of sleep. Mention any of these symptoms to your doctor.
Breathe easy. A few habits before and at bedtime can lead to a better slumber. First, stop smoking; it contributes to snoring. Have a light meal or dinner and skip the alcohol at least six hours before bed. Use a Breathe Right strip, which pulls the nostrils open wider, significantly reduce snoring. They’re available in team colors, so you can pretend to be your favorite athlete.
Test in the wee-hours. If you’re counting sheep by the herds, time to check your blood-sugar levels. This week, check your blood sugar more often to see if you’re hitting the target goals set with your doctor. High and low blood sugar can affect sleep quality. And take one more step: Set your alarm for 3 a.m. for another check. If your levels are normal, that’s great. If they’re low, it might explain why you’re waking up in the night. If sugar levels are below 75 mg/dL, have a small snack. Discuss any ongoing pattern of low blood sugar with your doc.
Drop pounds. As if bathing suit weather wasn’t enough incentive to shed a few pounds, losing even a little weight can improve your sleep. For instance, lose 10 percent of your body weight and sleep apnea can improve 26 percent, according to one University of Wisconsin Medical School study. And extremely overweight folks who dropped 25 to 50 percent of their body weight saw a 70 to 98 percent decrease in sleep apnea.
Check for symptoms. When the soft tissue in the back of the throat relaxes, it blocks the passage of air until your airway opens, often with a loud choking or gasping sound. You are more likely to have sleep apnea if you snore loudly or have a large neck—women with a neck size of more than 16 inches; men, 17 inches. Other signs include waking up three or more times a night to go to the bathroom and feeling sleepy despite getting eight or more hours of sleep. Mention any of these symptoms to your doctor.
Breathe easy. A few habits before and at bedtime can lead to a better slumber. First, stop smoking; it contributes to snoring. Have a light meal or dinner and skip the alcohol at least six hours before bed. Use a Breathe Right strip, which pulls the nostrils open wider, significantly reduce snoring. They’re available in team colors, so you can pretend to be your favorite athlete.
Test in the wee-hours. If you’re counting sheep by the herds, time to check your blood-sugar levels. This week, check your blood sugar more often to see if you’re hitting the target goals set with your doctor. High and low blood sugar can affect sleep quality. And take one more step: Set your alarm for 3 a.m. for another check. If your levels are normal, that’s great. If they’re low, it might explain why you’re waking up in the night. If sugar levels are below 75 mg/dL, have a small snack. Discuss any ongoing pattern of low blood sugar with your doc.
Drop pounds. As if bathing suit weather wasn’t enough incentive to shed a few pounds, losing even a little weight can improve your sleep. For instance, lose 10 percent of your body weight and sleep apnea can improve 26 percent, according to one University of Wisconsin Medical School study. And extremely overweight folks who dropped 25 to 50 percent of their body weight saw a 70 to 98 percent decrease in sleep apnea.
How to Prevent Diabetes Infections-Diabetic Connect
How to Prevent Diabetes-Related Infections
People with diabetes get more infections—and the infections may be more serious. Here is must-read information about infections and diabetes that could save you from life-threatening complications. You'll learn how to avoid infections, symptoms to watch for, when to call a doctor, and how infections can be treated.
People with diabetes get more infections—and the infections may be more serious. Here is must-read information about infections and diabetes that could save you from life-threatening complications. You'll learn how to avoid infections, symptoms to watch for, when to call a doctor, and how infections can be treated.
More about infections and diabetes:
Skin Infections and Complications
Susceptibility to Infections in Persons with Diabetes
Join our discussion on hospital infections
Skin Infections and Complications
Susceptibility to Infections in Persons with Diabetes
Join our discussion on hospital infections
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Hypoglycemia a Factor in a High-Speed Police Chase-Diabetes News Hound
Hypoglycemia a Factor in High-Speed Colorado Police Chase
A 59-year old man in Colorado has being charged with a handful of traffic violations, including careless driving, after he led police on a high-speed chase. Initially, police suspected the driver was drunk, but later learned he was diabetic and suffering from a hypoglycemic event, according to a recent article from ABC affiliate Channel 13.Click below to read the full article:
Hypoglycemia a Factor in High-Speed Police Chase-Diabetes News Hound
Can Diet Alone Reverse Type 2 Diabetes-Diabetes UK
I'm not sure about this. This article states that with an extremely low-calorie diet (600 calories per day) that Type 2 Diabetes can be reversed. DEFINITELY DO NOT TRY THIS WITHOUT CONSULTING WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN FIRST!
Click on the link below to read this article:
Can Diet Alone Reverse Type 2 Diabetes-Diabetes UK
Click on the link below to read this article:
Can Diet Alone Reverse Type 2 Diabetes-Diabetes UK
This is Disturbing to Me-Mom Charged in Diabetic Son's Death After Relying on Faith-Based Healing
This story is disturbing to me. I believe in God and I believe in praying to God when our children are ill and asking for healing. But, I also believe we have a responsibility to our children to give them every chance to live a full and productive life also. There should be, in my opinion, a combination of faith, prayer and modern medicine when it comes to taking care of our children's health and well-being. Read this article and tell me what you think:
Mom Charged in Son's Death-Diabetes News Hound
Mom Charged in Son's Death-Diabetes News Hound
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Quick and Easy Diabetic Dishes With Only 5 Ingredients-Diabetic Connect
| Quick and Easy Diabetic Dishes With Only 5 Ingredients Nothing beats a delicious meal—unless it's a delicious meal that's also easy to make. Each of these diabetic recipe favorites has only 5 ingredients. That means less time in the kitchen, and more time to relax and enjoy them! We've included 5-ingredient recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert—try them all! Saturday Skillet Breakfast Turkey Pesto Pita Sandwich Cream Cheese Crockpot Chicken Soft Peach Ice Cream—No Sugar Added
|  | ||||||
Beat Diabetes on an Airplane-Reverse Diabetes
Beat Diabetes on an Airplane
For many of us, summertime means vacation time. Get out that bright, splashy-colored Hawaiian shirt, plaid shorts, and big, floppy hat, because it’s time for fun and relaxation. If you have diabetes, you need to get from point A (your house) to point R&R (your vacation getaway) in a healthy way. Diabetes doesn’t limit your ability to travel. But you need to plan ahead and take precautions so that while you’re getting away from it all, your blood sugar isn’t getting away from you. Whether you’re loading up the family wagon or hopping a jet, these 10 sensible tips will make your travel smoother and vacation more enjoyable.
Check with your doc. It’s always a good idea to have a thorough exam before going on a trip. Knowing everything is fine and dandy will ease the travel anxiety you might experience before hitting the road.
Prep for security. Expect your diabetes supplies to be noticed and possibly questioned by airport security. But rest assured, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will allow you to board a plane with insulin, syringes, and an insulin-delivery system. You can carry lancets on board as long as they’re capped and can carry a glucose meter with a manufacturer’s name printed on it. At the security checkpoint, mention to the screener that you’re diabetic and have your supplies. That little heads-up will make the process smoother and quicker.
Bring along scripts. While prescriptions or a doctor’s letter aren’t necessary when traveling, it’s a good idea to have them handy. If you have them, it makes it much easier to refill any medication. Also, have your doctor provide a printout of all your medications in case you need medical attention on vacation. And also be sure that nonprescription items are clearly labeled and in their original containers.
Keep supplies close. Especially if you’re traveling by plane, keep your insulin, syringes, test strips, and other supplies in your carry-on luggage and within arm’s reach. You could pack extra supplies in your checked luggage, but be sure you have enough at hand to endure tarmac delays or summertime traffic jams.
Double up supplies. Bring about twice as much diabetic supplies as you think you’ll need. It’s easier to carry extra than to get more on the road.
Wear life-saving bling. If you don’t already have one, get a medical ID bracelet or necklace that alerts people that you have diabetes and provides emergency numbers.
Pack a snack. Wherever you go, take a portable snack, such as an apple, energy bar, banana, raisins, or cheese and crackers in case your blood sugar starts to dip when you don’t have immediate access to food. If you munch on snacks en route, don’t forget to replenish your supplies.
Eat by the clock. When traveling, stick to your regular mealtime schedule to keep your blood sugar stable. When that’s not possible, carry glucose tablets and be alert to symptoms of low blood sugar, such as nervousness, sweating, and crankiness. If you feel a hypoglycemic episode coming on while driving, pull over and take several glucose tablets. Wait at least 10 or 15 minutes for the feeling to pass before becoming a road warrior again.
Soothe your soles. Pack two pairs of comfortable shoes, so you can air out one pair while strolling around in the other. Shoes should be broken in before the trip, so leave new ones at home. Be cautious around places that can harm your tootsies. For example, wear water shoes at the beach to protect your feet from hot sand, rough sidewalks, and sharp pebbles. Bring a baggie with several sheets of moleskin and bandages as a first-aid kit for your feet.
Zone in on zones. Traveling across time zones can throw off your normal insulin and meal schedule. A good rule of thumb: When adding hours to your day as you travel west, you may need to take more insulin. When losing hours by traveling east, you may need less. And to ease into a new time zone, stick to your old schedule one evening, then switch your watch and your insulin schedule the morning after you arrive.
Featured Recipe
Roasted Red Pepper and Chickpea Dip with Pita Chips
The chickpea is a near-perfect food, delicately flavored and rich in protein, fiber, folate, iron, and zinc. Not only that, but the chickpea is a culinary wonder that blends well in everything from soups to salads to stews—and in this deliciously healthy dip.
Serves 12
For many of us, summertime means vacation time. Get out that bright, splashy-colored Hawaiian shirt, plaid shorts, and big, floppy hat, because it’s time for fun and relaxation. If you have diabetes, you need to get from point A (your house) to point R&R (your vacation getaway) in a healthy way. Diabetes doesn’t limit your ability to travel. But you need to plan ahead and take precautions so that while you’re getting away from it all, your blood sugar isn’t getting away from you. Whether you’re loading up the family wagon or hopping a jet, these 10 sensible tips will make your travel smoother and vacation more enjoyable.
Check with your doc. It’s always a good idea to have a thorough exam before going on a trip. Knowing everything is fine and dandy will ease the travel anxiety you might experience before hitting the road.
Prep for security. Expect your diabetes supplies to be noticed and possibly questioned by airport security. But rest assured, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will allow you to board a plane with insulin, syringes, and an insulin-delivery system. You can carry lancets on board as long as they’re capped and can carry a glucose meter with a manufacturer’s name printed on it. At the security checkpoint, mention to the screener that you’re diabetic and have your supplies. That little heads-up will make the process smoother and quicker.
Bring along scripts. While prescriptions or a doctor’s letter aren’t necessary when traveling, it’s a good idea to have them handy. If you have them, it makes it much easier to refill any medication. Also, have your doctor provide a printout of all your medications in case you need medical attention on vacation. And also be sure that nonprescription items are clearly labeled and in their original containers.
Keep supplies close. Especially if you’re traveling by plane, keep your insulin, syringes, test strips, and other supplies in your carry-on luggage and within arm’s reach. You could pack extra supplies in your checked luggage, but be sure you have enough at hand to endure tarmac delays or summertime traffic jams.
Double up supplies. Bring about twice as much diabetic supplies as you think you’ll need. It’s easier to carry extra than to get more on the road.
Wear life-saving bling. If you don’t already have one, get a medical ID bracelet or necklace that alerts people that you have diabetes and provides emergency numbers.
Pack a snack. Wherever you go, take a portable snack, such as an apple, energy bar, banana, raisins, or cheese and crackers in case your blood sugar starts to dip when you don’t have immediate access to food. If you munch on snacks en route, don’t forget to replenish your supplies.
Eat by the clock. When traveling, stick to your regular mealtime schedule to keep your blood sugar stable. When that’s not possible, carry glucose tablets and be alert to symptoms of low blood sugar, such as nervousness, sweating, and crankiness. If you feel a hypoglycemic episode coming on while driving, pull over and take several glucose tablets. Wait at least 10 or 15 minutes for the feeling to pass before becoming a road warrior again.
Soothe your soles. Pack two pairs of comfortable shoes, so you can air out one pair while strolling around in the other. Shoes should be broken in before the trip, so leave new ones at home. Be cautious around places that can harm your tootsies. For example, wear water shoes at the beach to protect your feet from hot sand, rough sidewalks, and sharp pebbles. Bring a baggie with several sheets of moleskin and bandages as a first-aid kit for your feet.
Zone in on zones. Traveling across time zones can throw off your normal insulin and meal schedule. A good rule of thumb: When adding hours to your day as you travel west, you may need to take more insulin. When losing hours by traveling east, you may need less. And to ease into a new time zone, stick to your old schedule one evening, then switch your watch and your insulin schedule the morning after you arrive.
Featured Recipe
Roasted Red Pepper and Chickpea Dip with Pita ChipsThe chickpea is a near-perfect food, delicately flavored and rich in protein, fiber, folate, iron, and zinc. Not only that, but the chickpea is a culinary wonder that blends well in everything from soups to salads to stews—and in this deliciously healthy dip.
Serves 12
Ingredients:
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup rinsed, drained, and coarsely chopped jarred roasted red bell peppers
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
2 whole-wheat pita breads
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup rinsed, drained, and coarsely chopped jarred roasted red bell peppers
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
2 whole-wheat pita breads
Preparation:
1 In a small skillet set over low heat, heat the cumin until it becomes fragrant, about 2 minutes.
2 Puree the cumin, chickpeas, bell peppers, oil, lemon juice, garlic, and ground red pepper in a food processor until smooth. Scrape into a container and refrigerate until the flavors are blended, about 1 hour.
3 Preheat the oven to 350°F. Coat a jelly-roll pan with nonstick cooking spray. Separate the pitas along the edges to make four flat circles. Stack and cut them into six pie-shaped wedges. Spread in a single layer on the prepared pan and bake until golden, 12 to 15 minutes. Serve with the dip.
1 In a small skillet set over low heat, heat the cumin until it becomes fragrant, about 2 minutes.
2 Puree the cumin, chickpeas, bell peppers, oil, lemon juice, garlic, and ground red pepper in a food processor until smooth. Scrape into a container and refrigerate until the flavors are blended, about 1 hour.
3 Preheat the oven to 350°F. Coat a jelly-roll pan with nonstick cooking spray. Separate the pitas along the edges to make four flat circles. Stack and cut them into six pie-shaped wedges. Spread in a single layer on the prepared pan and bake until golden, 12 to 15 minutes. Serve with the dip.
Per serving (2 tablespoons): 33 cal, 1 g fat, 0 g sat fat, 4 g carbs, 1 g protein, 1 g fiber, 0 mg chol, 33 mg sodium, 8 mg calcium
Great Ideas
Great Ideas
5 Ways to Make Mexican Food Healthier
Whether you’re fixing Mexican food at home or eating out at your favorite south-of-the-border-themed restaurant, dining on this ethnic fare can be a blood-sugar challenge. Portions are usually huge, with tortillas bigger than your head, and piles of white rice and cheese smothering everything. To still say “ole,” here are five tips for Mexican dining.
1. Ditch the chips. Ask the waitperson to take away the tortilla chips. As the Mexican equivalent of a big breadbasket, those chips are loaded with carbs and fat (they’re fried, remember?).
2. Go soft. For your tacos or to scoop up healthy dips like guacamole, opt for soft tacos. The hard versions (or chips) are fried. Another reason to forget chips: Each one has about 1 gram or more of fat.
3. Be app smart. Fortunately, there are plenty of healthy appetizer choices for your Mexican fiesta. For example, order or make your own ceviches (marinated raw fish or seafood), and soups like spicy cold gazpacho (vegetable), black bean, and tortilla.
4. Make fajitas the main course. Made with lean beef, chicken, or shrimp and grilled with onions and peppers, fajitas don’t have fatty ingredients in other dishes.
5. Opt for black beans and rice. Even if you have a sensible entrée, side dishes can bust your diet plan. Because of the beans, this dish has a lower GL than rice alone. Just make sure the beans aren’t refried, because those hombres can be loaded with fat. Many Mexican restaurants offer black beans as an alternative to refried—a perfect choice.
2. Go soft. For your tacos or to scoop up healthy dips like guacamole, opt for soft tacos. The hard versions (or chips) are fried. Another reason to forget chips: Each one has about 1 gram or more of fat.
3. Be app smart. Fortunately, there are plenty of healthy appetizer choices for your Mexican fiesta. For example, order or make your own ceviches (marinated raw fish or seafood), and soups like spicy cold gazpacho (vegetable), black bean, and tortilla.
4. Make fajitas the main course. Made with lean beef, chicken, or shrimp and grilled with onions and peppers, fajitas don’t have fatty ingredients in other dishes.
5. Opt for black beans and rice. Even if you have a sensible entrée, side dishes can bust your diet plan. Because of the beans, this dish has a lower GL than rice alone. Just make sure the beans aren’t refried, because those hombres can be loaded with fat. Many Mexican restaurants offer black beans as an alternative to refried—a perfect choice.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Celebrate Living Well With Diabetes and Win! and More-Diabetic Living
We’re Living It! Photo Contest
| There are so many ways to celebrate your life—even with diabetes in the picture. Enter the We’re Living It! photo contest now for a chance to win $500! Just upload a photo from July 1-August 5 showing how you live well with diabetes. Then get ready to vote daily from August 15-August 28 for your favorites. Plus, find practical tips and delicious recipes to help you live your best. Diabetes doesn’t stop you and that makes us celebrate! |
| · | Successfully Manage Type 2 Diabetes |
| · | The Diabetic Chef’s Best Recipes |
| · | See Renee’s Extreme Diabetes Makeover |
| · | Finding Acceptance & Confidence with Diabetes |
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Worst Coctails for Blood Sugar and More-dLife Foodstuff
| Worst Cocktails for Blood Sugar | ||||||||||||||
 Which is worse, wine or champagne? Before heading to your 4th of July festivities, find out how your favorite libations rank. Go to the list now.
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Amazingly Healthy Food Swaps and More-Reverse Diabetes
Amazingly Healthy Food Swaps
You can easily tell the health-oriented food shoppers. They’re the ones reading the food labels on every box or bag they pick up at the store. More and more of us are doing this these days, and that’s a great thing: Learning the amount of carbs, sugar, fats, protein, and sodium in the food you eat is just what you need to better manage your diabetes.
Sadly, one of the best measures of a food’s impact on your blood sugar is nowhere to be found on food labels today. It’s the Glycemic Load, and it indicates how much one serving of a particular food raises your blood sugar. Most no-carb foods, like beef, have a zero GL because eating it has no immediate effect on your blood sugar. A food with GL of 10 (such as 1/2 cup of orange juice) or less is considered low—and a good choice for avoiding blood-sugar swings. A measure of 11 to 19 is a medium-GL food; and those foods with a GL of 20 or higher should be viewed with caution and weighed carefully against other choices you make during your day.
What’s the GL mean for meal planning? Keeping the GL in mind as you create a menu, can help you balance meals. You’re less likely to experience energy ups and downs throughout the day and you stand a better change of shedding weight when monitoring your GL. Coordinating the GL of foods before and after exercise will also ensure that you’ll make the most of your workouts.
GL measures for many foods are easily found online. The trick is to take a few moments as you do your meal planning to check out the GL levels of the foods you plan to include. If too many are above 10, consider making some swaps.
When using GL as a tool, be aware that the GL of any particular food is closely tied to portion size. If you have three or four servings of a low GL food, it won’t help manage your blood sugar. So, no fudging on portion sizes (especially if it’s fudge).
Here are some high GL foods and examples of low GL swaps.
Breads
Swap white bread GL 22
For whole-grain pumpernickel GL 10
Swap Middle Eastern flatbread GL 30
For wheat tortillas GL 6
Breakfast Cereals
Swap cornflakes GL 24
For All-Bran GL 9
Swap instant Cream of Wheat GL 22
For oatmeal from rolled oats GL 7
Beverages
Swap Coca-Cola GL 24
For tomato juice GL 4
Swap cranberry juice cocktail GL 36
For unsweetened grapefruit juice GL 7
Sweets
Swap Mar’s Bar GL 26
For M&Ms with peanuts GL 6
Swap jelly beans GL 22
For Nutella GL 4
Vegetables
Swap French fries GL 22
For raw carrots GL 3
Swap baked russet potato GL 26
For baked sweet potato GL 17
Dried fruit
Swap raisins GL 28
For grapes GL 8
Swap dates GL 25
For apricots GL 9
Featured Recipe
Fried Chicken
Don’t be shocked! This long-time favorite comfort food can actually be diabetes friendly. Swap the old deep-fried recipe for an oven-baked one without skin and with a lighter breading, and you’ll still have that savory, crispy taste you love.
Serves 6
You can easily tell the health-oriented food shoppers. They’re the ones reading the food labels on every box or bag they pick up at the store. More and more of us are doing this these days, and that’s a great thing: Learning the amount of carbs, sugar, fats, protein, and sodium in the food you eat is just what you need to better manage your diabetes.
Sadly, one of the best measures of a food’s impact on your blood sugar is nowhere to be found on food labels today. It’s the Glycemic Load, and it indicates how much one serving of a particular food raises your blood sugar. Most no-carb foods, like beef, have a zero GL because eating it has no immediate effect on your blood sugar. A food with GL of 10 (such as 1/2 cup of orange juice) or less is considered low—and a good choice for avoiding blood-sugar swings. A measure of 11 to 19 is a medium-GL food; and those foods with a GL of 20 or higher should be viewed with caution and weighed carefully against other choices you make during your day.
What’s the GL mean for meal planning? Keeping the GL in mind as you create a menu, can help you balance meals. You’re less likely to experience energy ups and downs throughout the day and you stand a better change of shedding weight when monitoring your GL. Coordinating the GL of foods before and after exercise will also ensure that you’ll make the most of your workouts.
GL measures for many foods are easily found online. The trick is to take a few moments as you do your meal planning to check out the GL levels of the foods you plan to include. If too many are above 10, consider making some swaps.
When using GL as a tool, be aware that the GL of any particular food is closely tied to portion size. If you have three or four servings of a low GL food, it won’t help manage your blood sugar. So, no fudging on portion sizes (especially if it’s fudge).
Here are some high GL foods and examples of low GL swaps.
Breads
Swap white bread GL 22
For whole-grain pumpernickel GL 10
Swap Middle Eastern flatbread GL 30
For wheat tortillas GL 6
Breakfast Cereals
Swap cornflakes GL 24
For All-Bran GL 9
Swap instant Cream of Wheat GL 22
For oatmeal from rolled oats GL 7
Beverages
Swap Coca-Cola GL 24
For tomato juice GL 4
Swap cranberry juice cocktail GL 36
For unsweetened grapefruit juice GL 7
Sweets
Swap Mar’s Bar GL 26
For M&Ms with peanuts GL 6
Swap jelly beans GL 22
For Nutella GL 4
Vegetables
Swap French fries GL 22
For raw carrots GL 3
Swap baked russet potato GL 26
For baked sweet potato GL 17
Dried fruit
Swap raisins GL 28
For grapes GL 8
Swap dates GL 25
For apricots GL 9
Featured Recipe
Fried Chicken Don’t be shocked! This long-time favorite comfort food can actually be diabetes friendly. Swap the old deep-fried recipe for an oven-baked one without skin and with a lighter breading, and you’ll still have that savory, crispy taste you love.
Serves 6
Ingredients:
6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 1 1/2 pounds)
Salt, to taste (optional)
Fresh-ground black pepper, to taste (optional)
1/4 cup fat-free milk
1 egg white, lightly beaten
1/2 cup cornflake crumbs
6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 1 1/2 pounds)
Salt, to taste (optional)
Fresh-ground black pepper, to taste (optional)
1/4 cup fat-free milk
1 egg white, lightly beaten
1/2 cup cornflake crumbs
Preparation:
1 Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
2 Rinse the chicken, pat dry, and season with the salt and pepper, if desired.
3 Combine the milk and egg white in a medium bowl. Place the cornflake crumbs in a shallow bowl or on a plate. Dip each chicken piece in the egg and milk, then roll in the cornflake crumbs until well coated.
4 Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer on the baking sheet. Spray the tops with cooking spray and bake until brown and crisp, 20 to 30 minutes.
Great Ideas
1 Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
2 Rinse the chicken, pat dry, and season with the salt and pepper, if desired.
3 Combine the milk and egg white in a medium bowl. Place the cornflake crumbs in a shallow bowl or on a plate. Dip each chicken piece in the egg and milk, then roll in the cornflake crumbs until well coated.
4 Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer on the baking sheet. Spray the tops with cooking spray and bake until brown and crisp, 20 to 30 minutes.
Great Ideas
Excuse-Proof Your Outdoor Exercise
To relive your childhood, you have to do one, simple thing: Open the door and go outside. Once you’re connected to the outdoors, you’ll rediscover your sense of playfulness. Before you know it, you’re moving your body, exercising without even thinking about it, and just plain having fun.
Too many of us are cooped up indoors all day and all night, except for when we go to and from our cars. Compare that with how much time we spent outside as kids. Mom had to literally drag us in sometimes, right? For your health and wellness, it’s time to return to that part of your childhood. Start with a goal of being outside at least two hours a day. It doesn’t have to be all at once, but over a week you can sneak outside for 15 minutes here and there, and it’ll add up. Outdoor time will help you break the grip of the indoor disease.
To make stepping outside easier, here’s how to hurdle over three typical excuses. See you on the other side of the door!
Excuse #1: I only have a few minutes; no time to do anything outside.
The way outside: Pour your coffee into a travel mug and wander around your backyard or around the block. You don’t have to go on an expedition, just step out for 5 or 10 minutes.
Excuse #2: It always takes too long to get ready to take a bike ride or find my sports equipment.
The way outside: The evening before, set out clothes and any gear you’ll need, like your bike helmet. If it’s all handy when you wake up, you’re more likely to suit up and go.
Excuse #3: It’s raining. It’s pouring. I’d rather be snoring.
The way outside: Take a cue from golfers and open up one of those huge golf-style umbrellas, go for a walk, and enjoy the outdoors. You’ll be surprised how relaxing and sensual the sound and feel of walking in the rain can be.
Too many of us are cooped up indoors all day and all night, except for when we go to and from our cars. Compare that with how much time we spent outside as kids. Mom had to literally drag us in sometimes, right? For your health and wellness, it’s time to return to that part of your childhood. Start with a goal of being outside at least two hours a day. It doesn’t have to be all at once, but over a week you can sneak outside for 15 minutes here and there, and it’ll add up. Outdoor time will help you break the grip of the indoor disease.
To make stepping outside easier, here’s how to hurdle over three typical excuses. See you on the other side of the door!
Excuse #1: I only have a few minutes; no time to do anything outside.
The way outside: Pour your coffee into a travel mug and wander around your backyard or around the block. You don’t have to go on an expedition, just step out for 5 or 10 minutes.
Excuse #2: It always takes too long to get ready to take a bike ride or find my sports equipment.
The way outside: The evening before, set out clothes and any gear you’ll need, like your bike helmet. If it’s all handy when you wake up, you’re more likely to suit up and go.
Excuse #3: It’s raining. It’s pouring. I’d rather be snoring.
The way outside: Take a cue from golfers and open up one of those huge golf-style umbrellas, go for a walk, and enjoy the outdoors. You’ll be surprised how relaxing and sensual the sound and feel of walking in the rain can be.
Easy Ways to Slash Sugar
Tips to Take Out Added Sugar
Take Control Tips
Lower Blood Sugar
| Added sugar can crop up in everything from yogurt to salad dressings. Desserts also pose a problem when trying to cut added sugar. Good news! We have the information you need to slash sugar, plus tips to make the most of sugar substitutes. |
| · | Choose This, Not That Low–Sugar Foods |
| · | Get the Skinny on Sugar Substitutes |
| · | Tips on Baking with Sugar Substitutes |
| · | Wow! 20 Low–Carb Dessert Recipes |
| · | Light Dessert Secrets from the Test Kitchen |
Take Control Tips
| · | Fun Ways to Get Fit Together |
| · | Start Now! Tips to Lower A1C |
| · | Plate Method Meal Ideas |
Lower Blood Sugar
| · | What You Should Know |
| · | 13 Tips to Control Blood Sugar |
| · | Lower Your Morning Highs |
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