GlucoMenu

Pre-Diabetes Treatment

2012-01-30T04:44:00.000-08:00

Last week I attended the Joslin Diabetes Critical Literature Analysis conference in Phoenix.

One of the presenters mentioned research will be presented later this year on giving low dose insulin to those with Pre-Diabetes with the thinking that it may help with preserving pancreas function… Of course, diet and exercise (along with weight loss) can be very helpful in treating Pre-Diabetes.

You can learn more about Pre-Diabetes treatment by visiting: GlucoMenu.com

The conference was at the Arizona Biltmore… I’m including a photo. Nice place!

Blood Sugar & Vinegar

2012-01-23T04:50:00.000-08:00

I've had several people ask about whether vinegar assists with reducing blood sugar. Here's what research shows...

Researchers have found that taking a few tablespoons of vinegar (not the pill form) each day can help to reduce post-prandial (2 hours after eating) blood sugar and A1c levels for those with type 2 diabetes. Acetic acid is the component of vinegar that seems to help with this blood sugar lowering effect by inhibiting digestion of carbohydrate.

You can read the entire response and learn more about Diabetes by visiting the following link:

Blood Sugar & Vinegar

GlucoMenu Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

2012-01-17T04:24:00.000-08:00

Here is a recipe to help you warm up from a cold January day!

GlucoMenu® Chicken Tortilla Soup

Recipe Ingredients:
1/3 cup onion, chopped
3 T. garlic, minced
1 T. olive oil
1 - 28 oz. can no salt added cut tomatoes
2 cups low sodium chicken broth
10 fl. oz. water
1 cup low sodium black beans
1/4 cup chopped green chilies
5 oz. roasted skinless chicken breast, diced
1 T. chili powder
2 t. ground cumin
1 t. black pepper
4 T. fresh cilantro
2 corn tortillas (6 inch in diameter), cut into strips

Recipe Directions:
1. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until onions are translucent.
2. Transfer to large pot. Add tomatoes, broth, water, and spices. Heat for 10 minutes.
3. Add beans, chicken and chilies. Simmer for additional 10 minutes.
4. Serve with tortilla strips as garnish.
5. Makes 4 servings.

Nutrition Facts per serving: Calories: 236, Carbohydrate: 28 g, Fiber: 7 g, Fat: 6 g, Protein: 19 g, Sodium: 504 mg

More diabetes recipes are available at GlucoMenu.com

Glucose Monitoring Contact Lens in Development

2012-01-10T04:46:00.000-08:00

Microsoft and UW are developing a contact lens that will allow people with Diabetes to monitor their glucose levels. Some of the information found in blood is also available on the surface of the eye. The new lens will transmit the data wirelessly.

Here is a link to read more:

Microsoft Functional Contact Lens

Exercise and Diabetes in 2012

2012-01-03T03:55:00.000-08:00

Lots of people heading back to the gym this time of year. Be sure to wash hands and clean equipment before and after use to avoid getting sick. Here's to great workouts in 2012!

Learn more about exercise and diabetes by visiting GlucoMenu.com

Diabetes and the Holidays

2011-12-19T04:57:00.000-08:00

Below is a link to our most recent newsletter that includes tips for holiday celebrations and an Artichoke Dip recipe.

GlucoMenu Holiday Newsletter

Remember to include exercise and be mindful of portion sizes while celebrating with family and friends. Happy Holidays!

Holiday Weight Gain?

2011-12-05T05:45:00.001-08:00

Holiday weight gain: fact or fiction?

Here is an interesting study that shows the average person gains about 1 pound during the holiday season (however some gain as much as 5 pounds).

Holiday Weight Gain Study

GlucoMenu Beverage Guide

2011-11-28T10:17:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder what beverages you can drink if you have diabetes? Here is a link to the GlucoMenu Beverage Guide which contains over 150 Diabetes Friendly Beverages. This list was created since many people with diabetes struggle with what beverages they can consume without having much effect on their blood sugar.

GlucoMenu Beverage Guide

Thanksgiving & Diabetes

2011-11-21T09:52:00.000-08:00

Our most recent newsletter includes a Pumpkin Pie recipe for Thanksgiving:

GlucoMenu Newsletter

Remember to include some exercise on Thanksgiving to balance the festivities. Have a great Thanksgiving!

Diabetes Self-Management Study

2011-11-14T04:57:00.000-08:00

We've been conducting a Diabetes Self-Management Study over the past several weeks and I wanted to share some preliminary results... ALL study participants have lost weight! I am proud of everyone's hard work and find it really motivating when I see the updates each week.

Here's a link to more information about the study:

http://GlucoMenu.com/new_research/study/diabetes_study.asp

Diabetes & Stevia Sweetener?

2011-10-12T12:08:00.000-07:00

Here is a question I recently received from someone with diabetes:

Q: I was wondering if Stevia sweeteners are safe with someone who has diabetes? I was recently diagnosed as having diabetes.

A: An extract from the stevia plant called rebiana has recently been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. This sweetener contains little or no calories.

Brand names for rebiana include Truvia and PureVia. Rebiana will be found in products such as beverages as well as in single serve packets.

The American Diabetes Association’s website lists Stevia, Saccharin, Aspartame, Acesulfame potassium, and Sucralose under the subject of Low Calorie Sweeteners.

You can learn more by visiting GlucoMenu.com

Diabetes Self-Management Study

2011-10-04T16:46:00.000-07:00

We are currently conducting a study among those with Pre-Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes who are interested in taking a more active role in their own health care...

You can learn more by visiting:

http://GlucoMenu.com/new_research/study/introduction.asp

High Cholesterol & Diabetes

2011-09-15T12:07:00.000-07:00

Here is a question I recently received from someone with diabetes:

Q. In addition to having diabetes, I have high cholesterol. What can I order?

A. “If it has eyes, it has cholesterol.” Cholesterol is only found in animal products. Plant foods will not contain cholesterol and may contain fiber which can be helpful in lowering cholesterol as well as making you feel full. Here are a few tips to help guide you when ordering:

choose baked or grilled skinless chicken breast or seafood instead of high fat meats,
opt for egg whites instead of whole eggs to eliminate the yolk (the source of cholesterol and fat in an egg),
select healthier fats such as olive or canola oil instead of butter or margarine,
choose baked or steamed vegetables instead of fried foods,
ask for sauces to be served on the side to limit high fat cream and cheese sauces,

Be sure to ask your server how foods are prepared. Choose items that are grilled, baked, steamed, or roasted to limit added fat.

You can read more by visiting GlucoMenu.com

Can you reverse type 2 diabetes?

2011-08-27T07:17:00.001-07:00

Here is a question I recently received from someone with Type 2 Diabetes:

Q. Can you reverse diabetes? My husband was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes a few months ago.

A. No, type 2 diabetes cannot be reversed, but complications can be minimized with good blood sugar control. There are many things you can do to control blood sugar.

Eating right to support blood sugar control and a healthy body weight. This includes reading food labels, spreading carbohydrates evenly throughout the day, and reducing fat.
Exercise for overall health and improved insulin sensitivity. Set aside time to exercise everyday.
Weight loss if overweight. Current research indicates a 5-10% weight loss can help with tighter blood sugar control.
Testing blood sugar and taking medications as needed.

The good news is that people can take control of their diabetes by eating right, exercising on a regular basis, and testing blood sugar. Good blood sugar control starts with you!

You can read more by visiting: GlucoMenu

Diabetes and Fruit Juice?

2011-08-18T05:22:00.000-07:00

Here is a question I received from someone with diabetes:

Q: I am not a great water drinker and tend to go for the juices. Frozen orange juice and canned apple juice are two of my choices. Is frozen orange juice considered sugar free?

A: Fruit juices are definitely NOT sugar free. Juice tends to be one of the quickest ways to increase blood sugar.

Instead of juices, you might look at sugar free drink mixes containing little or no calorie (Crystal Light, Sugar Free Kool-Aid, Diet Soda, etc.)
Add a lemon, lime, or orange wedge to cold water to add flavor.
Limit beverages with caffeine as these actually deplete the body of water.

You can also visit Food Picker on GlucoMenu for an analysis of several popular beverages (as well as thousands of foods).

You can read more by visiting GlucoMenu.com

Diabetes and High Blood Pressure

2011-08-10T15:58:00.000-07:00

Here is a question I recently received from someone with diabetes:

Q. What should I order when eating out to limit sodium? In addition to having type 2 diabetes, I have high blood pressure.

A. Limiting sodium when dining out can be challenging. It is important to ask questions about how items are prepared. Here are some tips to help guide you when ordering:

choose baked or grilled lean meats (such as skinless chicken or turkey breast) over smoked, cured, or processed meats (such as ham or bacon),
ask that foods are not salted when being prepared,
request sauces on the side to help limit sodium,
ask that foods are seasoned only with herbs or spices that are salt free,
order fresh vegetables when possible since canned or frozen items may contain added sodium.

You can read more by visiting GlucoMenu.co m

Avoiding Over Snacking & Diabetes

2011-07-25T11:03:00.001-07:00

Here is a question I recently received from someone with diabetes:

Q. I am a student and I'm home all day alone so I get bored and want to munch. Also, I'm going from a very large calorie daily intake to only 1200 calories a day (which is what my doctor told me to do but haven't been able to stick with). Do you have any tips on how to get through the day without creeping into the kitchen?

A. It can be very difficult being at home alone with the temptation of eating. It does take time for your body to adjust to a lower calorie level. Stick with it though, you will get used to the smaller portions. A few suggestions...

Try drinking water throughout the day. I find ice water with a small wedge of lemon, lime or orange helps to curb my appetite in between meals. You could also choose other low calorie/low carbohydrate drinks such as Crystal Light, diet soda, coffee or tea, etc.
The American Diabetes Association lists sugar free gelatin as a free food. This may help to curb your appetite as well.
If you absolutely need a snack, choose non-starchy raw vegetables. Choose raw broccoli, cauliflower, celery, etc. These vegetables are low in calorie but high in fiber and will help you to feel full longer.
Some people find chewing sugar free gum helps to curb their appetite as well.
Slow down when eating. It takes a little bit of time for your brain to realize that your stomach is full.
Try "distractions" such as gardening, reading, working on the computer, visiting with friends, house cleaning to keep your mind off food and the kitchen.

You can read more by visiting GlucoMen u.com

High Blood Sugar and Diabetes

2011-07-17T07:08:00.000-07:00

Here is a question I recently received from someone with diabetes...

Q. I noticed right after lunch I get really tired. I try and walk for 10 minutes and it seems to help. Any suggestions?

A. Some people experience sleepiness an hour or two after eating if their blood sugar is running high. Test your blood sugar before and after eating lunch. If your blood sugar is high after lunch, consider:

measuring portion sizes to confirm the amount you are eating, and if portion sizes are correct,
cutting back the carbohydrate in the lunch meal (for instance if you normally eat 8 crackers with your lunch, cut back to 4-5) to see if there is a difference in your sleepiness.

Exercise does tend to improve alertness so walking can help as well. I would also suggest speaking with your doctor to see if he or she has any recommendations because diabetes care is specific to each individual (e.g. medications, other health issues, etc).

You can learn more by visiting GlucoMenu.com

When to Exercise?

2011-07-07T15:16:00.001-07:00

Here is a question I recently answered from someone with diabetes...

Q. Am I understanding correctly that one needs to exercise after eating during the day? For instance, I notice that in the Food Picker section, you talk about how long one would walk to work off the amount of calories just eaten. Can you comment on that?

A. With regards to exercise suggestions in the Food Picker section, we show the duration of exercise just to illustrate the energy required to burn off the food or beverage selected (e.g. tells you how far you have to walk if you choose this item).

While its certainly a good idea to exercise each day, when you exercise is up to your personal preference and whether your doctor suggests a certain time. Probably the best time to exercise is a time of day that you can make consistent.

I tend to do better exercising in the morning since it helps to energize my day. Some people like to exercise at the end of their day or after work to help reduce stress levels. Others like to exercise mid day during lunch.

The key is to exercise every day!

You can read more Diabetes Q&A by visiting GlucoMenu.co m

Other Carbohydrate & Diabetes

2011-06-30T19:41:00.000-07:00

Here is a question I recently answered from someone with diabetes wondering about "Other Carbohydrate":

Q. I've noticed General Mills MultiGrain Cheerios and several other products list "Other Carbohydrate? on their nutrition facts label. What is "other carbohydrate" and why aren't they included in the total carbohydrate count?

A. The amount of Other Carbohydrate is included in the Total Carbohydrate listed on the food label.

Other carbohydrate includes items such as complex carbohydrate without fiber.

You will notice the Multigrain Cheerios label lists 23 grams total carbohydrate. Just below that, it lists 3 grams dietary fiber, 6 grams sugars, and 14 grams other carbohydrate.

These 3 types of carbohydrate add up to 23 grams (which is the total carbohydrate listed).

You can read more Diabetes Q&A by visiting GlucoMenu.com

Diabetes & Alcohol

2009-12-19T05:50:00.000-08:00

Here is a question I received from someone with diabetes wondering about whether they could still consume alcohol:

What are your comments about having a couple of glasses of red wine with supper? Cheers!

Answer: Having diabetes does not mean you have to give up alcohol, so long as your alcohol consumption is in moderation.

Moderation in alcohol terms equates to having 1 or less alcoholic beverage each day if you are a woman and 2 or less alcoholic beverages each day if you are a man.

You’ll also want to speak with your doctor about whether consuming alcohol is acceptable considering your specific health issues and medications you are taking.

Some research supports alcohol having protective benefits against heart disease. This is controversial because alcohol can be harmful as it increases risk for some cancers and adds empty calories to the diet.

Alcohol generally reduces blood sugar and can lead to hypoglycemia. Judgment can be affected when drinking and one may not be aware of hypoglycemic symptoms due to impairment from overindulging.

If you are going to have a drink, it is recommended you do so with a meal. Food aids in delaying absorption of alcohol.

You can learn more about diabetes by visiting the following link:

http://glucomenu.com/

GlucoMenu Newsletter

2009-12-04T12:49:00.001-08:00

Here is a link to the most recent GlucoMenu Newsletter from November 30 - December 6, 2009. It includes a turkey panini recipe and diabetes related topics including grocery shopping, risk factors, and more.

http://www.glucomenu.com/newsletter/09/4709/

Diabetes & Fiber

2009-11-20T12:27:00.000-08:00

Here is a question I received from someone wondering about fiber and diabetes:

What do you think of ground flax seed to enhance the fiber in my diet? I was told that it would help with my constipation too.

Answer: Why not just adopt a diet that is high in fiber? Focusing on a variety of high fiber foods will offer the benefit of additional vitamins and minerals as well.

The ground flax seeds we have encountered contain 4 grams of fiber per ounce but also contain 14 grams of fat.

You should talk with your doctor or dietitian about what type of foods to include in your diet to increase fiber and alleviate constipation.

Most people should strive to consume 25-35 grams of dietary fiber each day. What do you think of ground flax seed to enhance the fiber in my diet? I was told that it would help with my constipation too.

You can learn more about diabetes and diet by visiting the following link:

http://glucomenu.com/new_research/default.asp

GlucoMenu Newsletter

2009-11-11T09:39:00.000-08:00

Here is a link to the most recent GlucoMenu newsletter from November 9-15, 2009. It includes a Mushroom Rice Soup recipe as well as a Diabetic Beverage Guide:

http://www.GlucoMenu.com/newsletter/09/4409/

GlucoMenu Newsletter

2009-10-23T04:32:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to the most recent GlucoMenu newsletter from October 19-25. This newsletter features the below breakfast burrito as well as information on blood sugar ranges.

GlucoMenu® Breakfast Burrito

Recipe Ingredients:
1/4 cup egg substitute
1/4 cup bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1/4 cup mushrooms, sliced
1/2 oz. low sodium mozzarella cheese
1 Mission low carb soft taco size tortilla

Recipe Directions:
1. Pour egg substitute into non-stick skillet. Begin to cook on medium heat.
2. As eggs begin to solidify, add vegetables and cheese and gently fold mixture. Continue to heat until eggs are cooked.
3. Serve mixture on tortilla.
4. Makes 1 burrito.

Nutrition Facts per serving:Calories: 223, Carbohydrate: 23 g, Fiber: 12 g, Fat: 7 g, Protein: 18 g, Sodium: 445 mg

http://www.glucomenu.com/newsletter/09/4209/

GlucoMenu Newsletter

2009-10-15T10:21:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to the most recent GlucoMenu Newsletter from October 12-18, 2009. It includes the below granola recipe and diabetes related topics including glucose tolerance test, sugar, and more.

GlucoMenu® Cranberry Almond Granola

Recipe Ingredients:
1/4 cup wheat germ
2 t. brown sugar
2 T. honey
1 t. vanilla extract
2 T. canola oil
2 T. water
1 t. ground cinnamon
1 3/4 cup dry oatmeal
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1/4 cup dried cranberries

Recipe Directions:
1. In mixing bowl, combine oats and wheat germ, set aside.
2. Blend water, cinnamon, brown sugar, honey, oil, and vanilla.
3. Stir cinnamon mixture into oats.
4. Spread mixture onto large, shallow pan.
5. Bake at 275 degrees for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
6. Add cranberries and almonds and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Cool and store in air tight container.
8. Makes five servings.

Nutrition Facts per serving:Calories: 262, Carbohydrate: 36 g, Fiber: 5 g, Fat: 11 g, Protein: 7 g, Sodium: 2 mg

http://www.glucomenu.com/newsletter/09/4109/

GlucoMenu Newsletter

2009-10-08T11:50:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to the most recent GlucoMenu Newsletter (October 5-11, 2009). Included in this week’s newsletter is the below Turkey Rice Soup recipe as well as information on sweeteners, and diabetes treatment.

GlucoMenu® Turkey Rice Soup

Recipe Ingredients:
6 oz. roasted skinless, boneless turkey breast, diced
3 cups fat free, reduced sodium chicken broth
1 cup water
1/3 cup dry wild rice
1/4 cup onions, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1/2 cup carrots, sliced
1 T. garlic, minced
1 t. black pepper
1 t. dried thyme

Recipe Directions:
1. In a large pot, simmer rice, onion, garlic, celery, and carrot in broth and water. Simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Add turkey, pepper, and thyme. Cover and allow to simmer for an additional 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
3. Serve.
4. Makes 4 servings.

Nutrition Facts per serving:
Calories: 140, Carbohydrate: 15 g, Fiber: 2 g, Fat: 1 g, Protein: 18 g, Sodium: 464 mg

http://www.glucomenu.com/newsletter/09/4009/

Diabetes & Weight Loss

2009-10-05T12:45:00.001-07:00

Here is a question I received regarding how to lose weight:

How do I lose 60 pounds in 6 months? What things should I be considering before going ahead? Any info much appreciated. I am very grateful for your help. Thanks.

Answer: Its great that you are interested in reaching a healthy body weight. Those with a healthy body weight will have a reduced risk for diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and heart disease.

You will want to make sure you are eating a balanced diet with sufficient nutrients.

First, talk with your doctor about your weight loss goals and discuss how much weight your doctor recommends losing. Ensure that you do not have any health issues that need to be addressed. Also, discuss exercise with your doctor.

While it seems appealing to lose weight quickly, the general rule of thumb for safe weight loss is 1 to 2 pounds per week.

Here are some tips to help you with your weight loss:

Increase your activity! The more you move, the more calories you burn. You might choose structured activities such as joining an intramural team sport or taking exercise classes. Also, simple day-to-day choices increase activity such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, going for a walk instead of watching TV, or walking the golf course instead of using a golf cart.
Cut out sodas and other sugary beverages. These beverages pack a lot of calories without offering other nutrients. Choose water or other low calorie, low sugar beverages (such as Crystal Light, etc.).
Limit empty calorie snacks such as chips, cookies, cakes, etc.
Get your whole family involved. When everyone is eating healthy & exercising, temptation to overeat or choose empty calorie foods is lower.
Increase your fiber intake. Fiber is naturally found in grains, vegetables and fruits. One of the benefits of fiber is that it helps to keep you full longer.
Focus on whole grains instead of refined flour foods. Choose whole grain bread over white bread, select brown rice over white rice, and choose whole grain cereal instead of sugar ones.
Include vegetables and fruits in your diet as snacks as well as part of meals (choose whole vegetables and fruits over juice).
Include low-fat dairy products and lean protein sources.
Watch portion sizes of high fat foods such as salad dressing. Limit other high fat foods such as fried foods, butter, etc.

Stay motivated and remember it takes time to lose weight just as it takes time to gain weight. You can do it!

GlucoMenu Newsletter

2009-10-01T05:06:00.000-07:00

A link to the GlucoMenu Newsletter from September 28 - October 4, 2009 is below. Included in this newsletter is the below Carrot Raisin Muffin recipe along with information on diabetes & omega-3 fats, and more.

GlucoMenu® Carrot Raisin Muffins

Recipe Ingredients:
1 1/3 cup wheat flour
1/2 cup all purpose flour
2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. ground nutmeg
1/2 t. ground cloves
1/2 t. ground cinnamon
1/2 cup egg substitute
8 fl. oz. lowfat buttermilk
3 T. canola oil
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 T. honey
1 t. vanilla extract
1 1/2 cup shredded carrot
1/3 cup raisins
1/4 cup chopped walnuts

Recipe Directions:
1. Combine flours, powder, nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Set aside.
2. In medium mixing bowl, mix egg substitute, buttermilk, oil, applesauce, honey, and vanilla. Stir egg mixture into flour mixture.
3. Stir in carrots, raisins, and walnuts.
4. Spoon batter into non-stick muffin pan.
5. Bake at 400 degrees for about 20 minutes or until inserted toothpick comes out clean.
6. Makes 8 muffins.

Nutrition Facts per muffin: Calories: 244, Carbohydrate: 36 g, Fiber: 4 g, Fat: 9 g, Protein: 8 g, Sodium: 169 mg

http://www.glucomenu.com/newsletter/09/3909/

Pre-Diabetes newly diagnosed

2009-09-29T07:46:00.001-07:00

Here is a question I received regarding someone who was recently diagnosed with Pre-Diabetes:

The doctor told me that my blood tests show that if I do not change my ways I will be diabetic no later than next year, 2 years at the very most. I guess the only good news is my cholesterol is low and my LDL and HDL are in the right limits.

I gave up smoking and just started throwing food in mouth instead. But it has been the last few years that I have been fighting depression and weight gain, so I've really got myself into a mess now. So, if you think your plan can help, it's not if I don't know that what I eat is not good for me. A lot of it is I am tired after working all day at the computer and the stress of my job sometimes is overwhelming.

What do you suggest?

Answer: It certainly sounds like you are motivated!

Pre-Diabetes is unique in that weight loss, following a healthy diet to support weight loss, and regular physical exercise can help to delay onset of type 2 diabetes (National Diabetes Prevention Program).
Here's a link for more information about Pre-Diabetes:

Pre-Diabetes Information

GlucoMenu Newsletter

2009-09-25T07:31:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to the most recent GlucoMenu newsletter. This week's newsletter includes a Turkey Panini recipe, diabetes & sweeteners and much more.

http://www.glucomenu.com/newsletter/09/3809/

Diabetes & Gluten?

2009-09-23T08:34:00.000-07:00

Here is a question I received from someone about whether they should avoid gluten products:

Should I be eating gluten free products? How do I know if I am allergic to a food item?

Answer: There is no reason to eliminate gluten unless you have an allergy or intolerance to it. Some research shows that those with type 1 diabetes are at greater risk for Celiac disease.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the lining of the small intestine is damaged. Gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley, and a few other grains) triggers this. Symptoms of Celiac disease may include abdominal cramping, diarrhea, fatigue, anemia, and weight loss.

Celiac disease is different from a gluten allergy.

Prior to eliminating gluten in your diet, discuss your concerns with your doctor. Ask your doctor about being tested for Celiac disease and also ask about whether you should be tested for a gluten allergy.

Diabetes & Hunger

2009-09-21T10:47:00.001-07:00

Below is a question I received from someone wondering about ravenous hunger and diabetes:

Lately, I have had difficulty controlling my eating and my sugar has been elevated. I find myself, always, hungry and most of the time ravenous. I need some good advice.

Answer: Excessive hunger can be a symptom of hyperglycemia. Other symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, and blurred vision. Talk with your physician about your elevated blood sugar levels and excessive hunger to evaluate whether adjustments in your treatment should be made.

After speaking with your doctor, you may also want to speak with a dietitian about including foods in your meal plan that keep you satiated (feeling full or satisfied).

Foods with fiber, protein, or fat tend to make you feel full for a longer period of time and may curb hunger. Fibrous foods include vegetables, whole grains, beans and legumes, and fruits (whole fruits not juice). Lean protein foods include poultry, seafood, lean meats, and low fat cheese. Heart healthy fats include nuts, olive oil or canola oil (use caution with fats especially if you are trying to lose weight).

Diabetes & Fruit

2009-09-18T10:17:00.000-07:00

People with diabetes often wonder about whether fruit is ok to eat. Here is question I received about which fruits are lower in sugar:

I have Type 2 diabetes. I need to know which fruits are lower in sugar. Which ones would be a better choice for me to eat?

Answer: It is important when choosing fruit to pay attention to portion sizes. You might measure out portions at the beginning to get an idea of a portion.

One small apple, 3/4 cup of berries, or 1 cup of melon is a serving of fruit.

Choose whole fruit over fruit juice more often. Whole fruit contains fiber and may not be absorbed into your bloodstream as quickly compared to fruit juices.

As whole fruits become more processed (juiced, pureed, mashed) there is potential for greater impact on blood sugar as a result of less fiber.

GlucoMenu Newsletter

2009-09-17T07:35:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to our most recent newsletter. This week's newsletter includes a lemon muffin recipe, carbohydrate versus sugar, and much more:

GlucoMenu Newsletter September 14-20, 2009

Diabetes & Glucose Tolerance Test

2009-09-16T04:16:00.000-07:00

Below is a question I received about glucose levels.

My glucose tolerance test was at 105 - how high/low is that compared to acceptable levels?

Answer: It depends on what type of test you had (was it a fasting glucose test or an oral glucose tolerance test?). If it was a Fasting Plasma Glucose test, a glucose level of 100-125 indicates pre-diabetes. Your doctor will have the test results and be able to answer questions specific to you.

The American Diabetes Association states the following:

"In order to determine whether or not a patient has pre-diabetes or diabetes, health care providers conduct a Fasting Plasma Glucose Test (FPG) or an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT). Either test can be used to diagnose pre-diabetes or diabetes. The American Diabetes Association recommends the FPG because it is easier, faster, and less expensive to perform.

With the FPG test, a fasting blood glucose level between 100 and 125 mg/dl signals pre-diabetes. A person with a fasting blood glucose level of 126 mg/dl or higher has diabetes.

In the OGTT test, a person's blood glucose level is measured after a fast and two hours after drinking a glucose-rich beverage. If the two-hour blood glucose level is between 140 and 199 mg/dl, the person tested has pre-diabetes. If the two-hour blood glucose level is at 200 mg/dl or higher, the person tested has diabetes."

People Using GlucoMenu

2009-09-11T12:46:00.000-07:00

Here is some feedback I received this week from a customer using GlucoMenu.

"Your program is great! No more wondering what to have for dinner! I am eating so healthy and enjoying it!

My family has joined me to be supportive and like the menus too. We are all losing weight!

My grocery bill has also been reduced. I am a new diabetic and really depend on your menus. I was tested at the clinic lab a week after starting your program and my blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure had all been reduced markedly.

I know I need to stay with this program! Thank you so much for the great work you are doing, Christine!"

Diabetes & Fiber

2009-09-10T13:53:00.000-07:00

Here is a question I received about choosing foods that are good sources of fiber.

I am in the military and currently stationed in Kuwait. Although the meals are great, I have a hard time putting items together for a 1200 cal diet and I'm not sure of which items are the best for fiber. Please help.

Answer: Choosing whole grains instead of refined flour (wheat bread and brown rice instead of white bread and white rice for example), whole vegetables and whole fruits instead of juice can help increase fiber.

Fiber is a type of carbohydrate found in fruits, vegetables, and grains. Not only do fibrous foods contain many vitamins and minerals, fiber also packs health benefits including:

Delaying sugar into the blood stream – slows how quickly sugar goes into your bloodstream and therefore may reduce peaks of blood sugar levels,
Reducing body weight – helps to make you feel full longer and may displace “empty calorie” foods,
Reducing blood cholesterol – if you have heart problems or high cholesterol, eating high fiber foods may help to reduce your blood cholesterol levels,
Alleviating constipation – helps to improve regularity.

Paying attention to nutrition facts on food labels and nutrition analysis when available for meals served can be helpful in counting calories and determining fiber content.

According to the American Diabetes Association, if a food contains 5 or more grams of fiber, you can subtract 1/2 of the grams of fiber from the total carbohydrate amount.

Diabetes & A1c test

2009-09-09T05:50:00.000-07:00

Below is a question I received from someone with diabetes asking about their A1c level.

What should my A1c level be?

Answer: An A1c test is a blood test that reveals how your blood sugar has been over the past 2-3 months. This test can show high blood sugar you are not aware of as a result of blood sugar testing times. Strive for an A1c close to that of a healthy person (4-6%).

The American Diabetes Association recommends an A1c goal for those with diabetes of less than 7%. The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists recommends an A1c goal for those with diabetes of less than 6.5%.

It is important to discuss blood sugar control goals with your doctor or diabetes educator so you know what to personally try to achieve. While you already have a primary care physician, you may want to see a specialist in diabetes (Endocrinologist). An Endocrinologist is medical doctor who specializes in diseases including diabetes.

Welcome!

2009-09-08T13:37:00.000-07:00

My name is Christine and I am a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator.

I have always been interested in nutrition. When my dad was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, I became interested in diabetes care as well. My grandfather also had type 2 diabetes. Research indicates family history of diabetes increases risk. Because of my family history with diabetes, I have a vested interest in the treatment and prevention of the disorder.

I started this blog for diabetes and nutrition related discussions. My hope is to discuss many diabetes topics to help with daily management. Please feel free to add your diabetes experiences, comments and questions.