Q. I tested my blood
this morning with my sister’s glucose monitor.
It was 120. I have diabetes,
right?
A. A home monitor
provides relatively accurate information about blood sugar levels, but is not
precise enough to diagnose diabetes – that must be done in a doctor’s
office. A fasting blood sugar level of
126 mg/dl or higher is considered a diabetic level, but must be repeated to
confirm the results. If your blood sugar
tests higher than normal, yet not high enough to be diabetes, you may have pre-diabetes. If this is the case, you may be able to avoid
or delay its development by losing some weight and by increasing your physical
activity. Please visit your doctor to
check this out.
Q. Can people with
diabetes drink tomato juice?
A. They sure
can! Tomato juice contains very few
carbohydrates (about 7 grams per 6 ounces) and shouldn’t affect your blood
sugar level in any significant way unless you consume a large amount. Today’s diabetes meal plans are far more
flexible than in the past. They allow
individuals with diabetes to enjoy the foods they love as long as they are
eaten in appropriate portion sizes. A dietitian can help you plan ways to add
many of your favorite foods back into your day.
Q. My father was
just diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. I
purchased a few books for him, but he found them very technical and
overwhelming. Can you suggest a book that
is easy to understand?
A. I have the
perfect book! Your First Year with
Diabetes uses humor and expert information to make learning about
diabetes
a breeze. It teaches you how to manage
your diabetes day to day, week to week, and month to month. It was written by Theresa Garnero, a past
AADE Diabetes Educator of the Year and…a stand-up comedian! The book is published by the American
Diabetes Association. I think your father will enjoy it and will learn a great
deal.
Q. Can massage help
my diabetes?
A. Many people
believe it can. A relaxing massage may
help reduce stress, which is always a plus.
Some studies suggest that massage can also improve blood sugar levels
and lessen the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy (nerve problems). Massaging an injection site may also increase
insulin absorption.
Q. I struggle with
food portions when I eat out at a restaurant.
Is there an easy way to estimate serving sizes?
A. Your hand is a
measuring tool that goes with you everywhere you go. Here are a few ways to use it:
- Tip of the thumb to
the first knuckle = 1 teaspoon
- Whole thumb up to
the second knuckle = 1 Tablespoon
- The palm of your
hand = 3 ounces of cooked meat
- Tight fist = ½ cup
or 1 cup for a large hand
- Loose fist or open
handful = 1 cup or approximately 1 ½ cups for a large hand
*This article originally appeared in 2009
**please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diabetes regimen.
- For more great articles by Janis Roszler, visit the e-version of our magazine at walgreensdiabetes.com
- For more great articles by Janis Roszler, visit the e-version of our magazine at walgreensdiabetes.com
