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Diabetic Supply

Diabetes affects over 246 million people Estimates suggest it affects about 20 per cent of the population in the developed world. It is the fourth leading cause of death, and yet, there still is no cure for diabetes. Fortunately, you can control the disease with insulin, or other medications. In fact it is generally easy to find a diabetic supply source due to the large numbers of people affected.

Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas to help your blood cells absorb and use glucose. People with diabetes either don’t produce any, or don’t produce enough insulin. Sometimes your body just doesn’t use it effectively. When you aren’t burning insulin to create energy, the sugar stays in your blood. That’s where it plays havoc with your health, leading to everything from heart and kidney disease, to blindness or amputation.

People with what as known as type one diabetes can’t produce any insulin. People with type two may still be able to produce some insulin, but they have trouble keeping their blood sugar level normal. Some pregnant women will experience gestational diabetes.

People who are diagnosed with diabetes often need to take insulin or other medications to control their disease. Your doctor will tell you what you will need to keep in your home diabetic supply kit. Insulin must be injected into the fat under the skin to be effective. So you will need to use syringes, pens, or a pump to do this. Insulin comes in different forms to suit your needs, and your treatment plan. Some people will be able to use an insulin inhaler. Your doctor will also discuss which form of insulin injection is best for you. Your doctor will tell you the best way to store your diabetic supply. Insulin usually needs to be kept refrigerated.

A blood glucose meter will be part of your diabetic supply kit. It will include a lance. It will also have disposable lancets to prick your finger for a drop of blood. You place the blood on a new test strip each time. This is inserted in the blood glucose meter so you can monitor your blood glucose levels. There are several different types of meters to choose from. You may want to shop at a diabetic supply store to view the different models. Some are more portable, some are easier to read, and some may be less painful.

You will also need to think about what you eat. You will need to limit sweets, and count carbohydrates. You could also buy a book or chart explaining the glycemic index of food. This rates food on how fast the glucose is absorbed into the blood. The slower it absorbs, the better it is for you. Sometimes you can buy special diabetic foods at your local diabetic supply store. There are even sugar free candies and treats at your diabetic supply store. Drug stores will usually have every type of diabetic supply. A registered dietician can help you plan your menu.

Sometimes lifestyle changes can help you manage diabetes. You should take a brisk walk, or play a game of basketball with the kids. Try to aim for about a half hour of exercise each day. Try to work up a bit of a sweat. You may not have the energy at first, but ironically, exercise usually boosts your energy. With proper management, you will live a long and energetic life despite diabetes.

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