Using an insulin pump is a great way to simplify your diabetes management. But as with all mechanisms, the possibility of a malfunction is a fact of life. So what should you do if a malfunction happens while you’re away for the weekend or on vacation?

For people with diabetes, there are three great tips to keep in mind in case of insulin pump malfunctions when on vacation or away from home:

• First, keep a troubleshooting guide on hand at all times for reference. Print out a hard copy and keep in your car or luggage, or save the file to your wireless device or laptop. This way you can always check the equipment first for an easy fix. For example, if air bubbles in the tubing or you can see or smell insulin leaking, you can consult the guide and discover how to troubleshoot these problems. If you suspect it is a mechanism malfunction, contact your pump company right away. Before leaving home, write down the company’s contact information and your model number in case the pump is lost and you can’t look for the number on the unit. Also, write down your rates and ratios for when the new pump arrives. You should calibrate the new pump’s settings as soon as you get it out of the box.
• It is also recommended that you take along a back-up of insulin pen injections. These can be used while awaiting the replacement shipment. A supply of your long-acting insulin can help you wait out the shipping time.
• Finally keep an emergency prescription from your doctor with you, but check the expiration date before you leave to make sure everything is up to date.

The above scenario shouldn’t discourage you from using an insulin pump. Indeed, they are especially useful for on-the-go people who travel often. Along with relaxation, vacations are often known for the mishaps, too. Lost luggage, airport delays, and bad weather are just a few challenges a traveler can face. Be prepared. Creating a checklist before leaving and having all of your information with you can help combat unforeseen circumstances and provide you with peace of mind.

If you are considering an insulin pump, let us help you choose from a number of options. To pick the right one for you, call us today at 1-866-403-6287 to speak with one of our friendly staff members, or visit the Focus Express Mail Pharmacy website for more information.

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The A1c  test is a blood test that provides information about a person’s average levels of blood glucose, also called blood sugar, over the previous 3 months. The A1c test is sometimes called the hemoglobin A1c, HbA1c, or glycohemoglobin test. The A1c test is the primary test used for diabetes management and diabetes research.

 

According to the Mayo Clinic, a normal A1c level can range from 4.5 to 6 percent for someone who does not have diabetes. On the other hand, someone who's had uncontrolled diabetes for a long time might have an A1C level above 8 percent.

When the A1c test is used to diagnose diabetes, an A1c level of 6.5 percent or higher on two separate tests indicates you have diabetes. A result between 5.7 and 6.4 percent is considered prediabetes, which indicates a high risk of developing diabetes.

For most people who have previously diagnosed diabetes, an A1c  level of 7 percent or less is a common treatment target. But, remember, the higher your A1c level, the higher your risk of diabetes complications.

Here's how the A1c level corresponds to average blood sugar level, in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) and millimoles per liter (mmol/L):

A1c level	Estimated average blood sugar level
5 percent	97 mg/dL (5.4 mmol/L)
6 percent	126 mg/dL (7 mmol/L)
7 percent	154 mg/dL (8.5 mmol/L)
8 percent	183 mg/dL (10.2 mmol/L)
9 percent	212 mg/dL (11.8 mmol/L)
10 percent	240 mg/dL (13.3 mmol/L)
11 percent	269 mg/dL (14.9 mmol/L)
12 percent	298 mg/dL (16.5 mmol/L)
13 percent	326 mg/dL (18.1 mmol/L)
14 percent	355 mg/dL (19.7 mmol/L)

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If you are looking to simplify your diabetes management, an insulin pump may be right for you. Insulin pumps can be used by those with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes but are most useful for people with busy schedules. While it can be discreetly hidden in clothing, this small device monitors blood glucose levels by administering insulin doses as needed or as scheduled through both basal and bolus doses.

Many people with diabetes benefit from the convenience, flexibility and accuracy of using an insulin pump but it is especially helpful to people with some specific, yet common everyday characteristics. An insulin pump may be the right option for people with diabetes:

ñ Who take insulin and have difficulty regulating their blood sugar.

ñ Who are either pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

ñ Who are always on the go or travel often.

ñ Who are physically active or participate in sports.

ñ Especially adolescents, who are going through a lot of physical changes.

ñ Who are looking to simplify their diabetes management.

For those who decide to use an insulin pump, it is still very important to monitor blood glucose levels; however, new technology allows continuous monitoring for those who use the pump and can report blood sugar levels every five minutes to maintain proper levels. Also, the small size allows it to go anywhere you go so you can always be aware of spikes and drops.

Although insulin pumps may seem challenging at first, most people who use them agree that the benefits far outweigh any disadvantages. Learning to use a pump is simple and, though it can be an initial expense, the ease, comfort, and security of using an insulin pump is worth it.

If you decide an insulin pump is right for you, the next step is to investigate the many options available. If you have questions about which insulin pump to choose, contact us at Focus Express Mail Pharmacy. We have more than 100 combined years of experience in diabetes supplies, and we specialize in insulin pump therapy. Call us, toll-free, at 1-866-403-6287 to speak directly with one of our pharmacists.

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Deciding whether or not your child should use an insulin pump is a big decision and a huge responsibility. However, it can make daily life much more manageable, especially for growing children, as they monitor blood sugar levels and deliver doses of insulin into the blood stream.  

Using an insulin pump effectively can be challengingfor both children and adults, as it must be closely monitored first by the parents and then the child as they grow older.  Multiple doses are given and blood sugar must be checked four to eight times a day, which is daunting, but the benefits of using an insulin pump far outweigh the struggles.

Who Benefits from an Insulin Pump?

Many children, even those as young as 12 days old, have used insulin pumps with much success. An insulin pump may be the right option for children with Diabetes:

ñ  Who are already taking insulin or who have problems with sustaining proper blood sugar levels.

ñ  Who are going through growth spurts and whose bodies are dramatically changing.

ñ  Who play sports or are very active.

ñ  Or for parents who would like to maintain better control and monitoring to ensure an insulin pump is providing effective levels of insulin to their children.

What Do Kids Say about Insulin Pumps?

Children all over the world are talking about their own positive experiences with using an insulin pump. It's clear that insulin pumps can provide more control and flexibility, especially wireless pumps which allow children of all ages to be more active. Playing on the playground or on sports teams like any other child is just one of the many reasons for children to use an insulin pump.

What to Remember

The main key to assisting and teaching your child with diabetes to successfully use an insulin pump is to remember that it takes time. Parents and caregivers must understand how to monitor the pump, and also be able to teach the child as they grow how to properly maintain it themselves. While the age of children using insulin pumps differs, the amount of responsibility varies depending on the age and developmental skills of the child.

Interested in speaking with a pharmacist about the many options of insulin pumps for children? The expert staff at Focus Express Mail Pharmacy has been specializing in diabetes supplies for more than 100 combined years and they are waiting to help you at

1-800-403-6287 toll-free.

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To a person with diabetes, eating can become a hassle rather than something to enjoy. Going to restaurants can be difficult, time consuming, and expensive. But dinner doesn't have to be so stressful. With these fast and healthy alternatives, a mouthwatering meal can be on your table in less than 30 minutes every day.

Diabetes Recipe 1: Asian Lemon Chicken

Instead of having sweet & sour chicken, try Asian Lemon Chicken. In less than 25 minutes, this flavorful chicken and peppers dish will hit the spot. Low calories, low carbs, and high protein make it nearly perfect.

Diabetes Recipe 2: Hawaiian Calzone

Eating regular pizza for a person with diabetes could cause their blood sugar to skyrocket due to the extremely high amounts of carbohydrates, but you can still enjoy a delicious doughy dinner.  The Hawaiian Calzone, consisting of several bold ingredients like Canadian bacon, pineapple, and a scrumptious mix of cheeses incorporated into a flaky, soft crust, will  put your taste buds in a state of nirvana.

Diabetes Recipe 3: Indian-Spiced Chicken with Tomato Chutney

Miss the fire of your local Indian restaurant? Try Indian-Spiced Chicken with Tomato Chutney.  Rated “outstanding,” this perfect blend of coriander, curry, and cumin will set your mouth on fire. Serve with a side of vegetables.

Diabetes Recipe 4: Go Vegetarian Sloppy Joes

For a great alternative to the family favorite Sloppy Joe, go meatless! Not only do you get three servings of vegetables, but you also get 10 grams of protein with every serving! This meal is great when you are on the go, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

Diabetes Recipe 5:  Roasted Salmon with Maple Glaze

With this Roasted Salmon with Maple Glaze, it will feel like you're eating dinner seaside. The interesting combination of maple syrup, salmon, sea salt, and cracked black pepper is sure to please your pallet, and all for under 315 calories.

Have a sweet tooth? 

An extensive list of sugar free recipes can be found here. More great recipes for people with diabetes can also be found on the Focus Express Mail Pharmacy website.

At Focus Express Mail Pharmacy, we are here to help you get your medications and supplies as quickly and stress-free as possible. Please contact us at 1-866-403-6287 with your questions or visit us at  www.FocusPharmacy.com

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We all know the importance of managing our cholesterol levels, but oftentimes we neglect the importance of controlling our triglycerides. Triglycerides are fat molecules that circulate and build up in the blood and are created from the carbohydrates and fatty foods that we eat. Maintaining proper triglyceride levels is critical. According to the American Heart Association, having triglycerides above 150 mg can lead to serious medical problems such as heart disease and stroke. Let's take a closer look at why it is important, especially for those with diabetes, to watch this number carefully.

The causes of high triglycerides in people with diabetes are vast. Not maintaining proper insulin and glucose levels as well as obesity can put you at greater risk. Sometimes, medical obstacles such as renal failure, a resistance to insulin, several thyroid disorders, genetics, as well as many medications, can also cause triglyceride levels to skyrocket.

For people with diabetes who have high triglycerides, the first place to start in lowering this number is making a diet change. Foods that are high in sugar, fat, and carbohydrates should be replaced with healthier choices including fresh fruit, lean meats, fish that contain omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and tuna, and 100% whole grain whenever possible. A good diet for people with diabetes who are trying to lower their triglyceride levels often begins with altering their diets to 1200 calories every day. You can find healthy recipes for people living with diabetes on our website.

Although adopting better eating habits is important, there are other ways a person with diabetes can lower their triglyceride levels. Drinking less alcohol, getting plenty of exercise, and maintaining better control of their diabetes are all ways to lower triglycerides. Also, a person who smokes can lower their triglyceride levels by quitting as soon as possible.

Sometimes, taking these steps is not enough and your doctor may prescribe medication.  Ultimately, implementing these changes will help improve your triglycerides as well as your blood sugar.

In addition to providing information on diabetes, insulin pumps and supplies, the courteous and experienced staff at Focus Express Mail  Pharmacy have extensive insurance experience in helping their customers reduce their out of pocket costs to almost nothing. If you have any  questions regarding how much simpler and less expensive you can get your supplies for your diabetes, please call us toll-free at:

1-866-403-6287 or visit www.FocusPharmacy.com

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Insulin Pump Basics 101

If you are a person with diabetes and have been giving yourself daily individual injections, you know that constantly managing your blood sugar and insulin levels is a major responsibility in your everyday life. With an insulin pump, you can eliminate that stress and enjoy the freedom of living your life the way you want. Instead of planning your food and exercise activity to correspond with your insulin needs, a pump allows your insulin to be delivered to you when you need it, making the levels more precise.

Although modern insulin pumps offer many features designed to improve your healthcare, their primary purpose is to administer insulin to those with diabetes. Because insulin levels can be monitored and calculated based on each person's individual needs, insulin pumps tend to be more effective in providing consistency. Insulin pumps supply rapid acting insulin in different ways. If a person has increased blood glucose levels or needs to even out blood sugar levels with specific foods that have been eaten, pumps will deliver a bolus dose. Different sized boluses are specifically used depending on what kinds of food and how much of an insulin need there is. Pumps use basal dosages consistently during periods when you are not consuming food, such as when you are sleeping at night. 

There are a few different types of insulin pumps. A traditional pump has tubing connected to a cannula that is then inserted into the skin of a person with diabetes, but there are also pumps that do not have tubes. Depending on your individual needs, you may want to choose the tubeless pump if you are very active or if you play sports.  If you have a child, you may want to get one with a lock to keep the dosages correct. The pumps hold reservoirs ranging from 176 to 315 units of insulin. Typically, a younger and smaller person would require the lower end, closer to 176 units while some adults use more than 300 units. Watch this video to learn more about how insulin pumps work and more on the benefits.

Although the first insulin pumps were invented decades ago, there have been many strides in the accuracy as well as the development of several options and upgrades in these kinds of supplies. Not only are they commonly waterproof and small enough to fit in a pocket, but many feature glucose monitoring, carb calculators, and are compatible with software programs to help you maintain your medical history and analysis online too.

If you think you may be ready to discuss more about how insulin pumps work, call Focus Express Mail Pharmacy at 1-866-403-6287 to speak with a Pharmacist. We are experts in insulin pumps and supplies and would love to help you obtain your pump for little or no expense.

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With so many different Insulin Pumps available for those with diabetes, choosing the right one to fit your lifestyle can be intimidating, confusing, and just plain overwhelming. If simply eliminating the need for individual injections isn't enough of a reason to work through the many features, consider that insulin pumps also mean more control, less side effects, and increased accuracy in insulin levels. Here are some differences that may help you decide which one is right for you:

Tech Friendly Pumps 

For those of us who can't imagine life before the internet and those who wouldn't dream of being caught anywhere without your smartphone, there is an insulin pump for you. Staying connected and having fun while keeping up with your diabetes has never been easier, especially with the Bluetooth capabilities of the Accu-Chek system. The Accu-Chek Spirit Insulin Pump includes Accu-Chek's Pocket Compass software, featuring a bolus calculator, electronic diary, and a graphic display.

More Control

Some insulin pumps are designed for people who want more flexibility over their healthcare and the MiniMed Paradigm line of insulin pumps helps ensure your ability to carefully monitor all aspects of your individual concerns. The Medtronic MiniMed Paradigm Revel offers so many features to help you retain control while staying informed, including constant insulin tracking with the Bolus Wizard Calculator, Glucose monitoring built right in, and the ability to dispense more specific basal and bolus insulin units to fit your needs. The  Animas IR1250 Insulin Pump also features an endless array of tools and it is waterproof!

Always on the Move

For the adventurer out there, falling from planes and hiking to places most of us have never seen, try the OmniPod Insulin Pump. Not only is it lightweight, wireless, and waterproof, but the tubing free design makes this pump incredibly easy to slip into a pocket or purse, making this insulin pump perfect for people always on the go.

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You may get the proper amount of exercise, eat healthy foods and practice good personal hygiene, but chances are at some time or another, you will become sick. The guidelines for taking care of yourself for a "bad cold" are easy enough: drink plenty of liquids, get extra of rest,  and treat the symptoms. Time will take care of the rest. Yet if you are a person living with diabetes, taking care of yourself when you are sick is a bit more involved. You need to know what you should eat, how often you should check your blood sugar, and when to call a doctor.

What you should eat if you’re sick

Just as you might moderate your children’s diet when they are sick by providing them with clear broth, gelatin, applesauce and other food that is easy on the stomach, you want to handle your sickness with the same care. The additional key however, is to manage your glucose level. Your blood glucose level can become elevated if you are sick, but if you are unable to eat, your blood glucose level can become dangerously low. Click on these eating guidelines  to help you make the proper decisions on how to take good care of you, while still managing your diabetes.

Check your blood sugar often

When you are ill, it is important to check your blood sugar every four hours. Not only does this help you determine your blood sugar level, how much insulin you need to take, or when it is important to eat something, but checking your blood sugar levels can let you know if you have to test for ketones, a waste product that your body often produces (if you have Type 1 Diabetes) when you are under stress.

When you should contact a doctor

Should your blood glucose levels remain outside of safe levels or if your condition worsens, you may need to contact your healthcare provider. When you contact your physician, be sure to have important information ready regarding the length of your illness, your recent blood sugar levels, and your physical condition.

If you have questions regarding how to take care of your diabetes when you are sick, or need information on insulin pumps and supplies for diabetes, please do not hesitate to Focus Express Mail Pharmacy toll free at 1-866-403-6287 to speak directly with a pharmacist or one of our diabetes specialists.

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The advantages of using an insulin pump are many, especially when compared to individual insulin injections.  Greater flexibility and more control over your diabetes ensures that you are doing everything you can to be at optimum health. Better controlled blood sugar numbers precisely demonstrate the hefty benefits of the insulin pump.

But, let's take a closer look at why you should consider using an insulin pump for your diabetes rather than individual injections.

Insulin Pump v. Insulin Injections:

Ø The first and most obvious advantage with using an insulin pump is there is no need for painful individual injections. The pump is conveniently worn around your waist and a small cannula, attached to an infusion set, is inserted under the skin allowing for easier diabetes management. Instead of multiple injections per day, the cannula is changed every 3 days.

Ø Insulin pumps are more accurate than traditional injections and give you the freedom to live the way you want by having a continual delivery of insulin. Whether you are facing a tough week at work or running a marathon, the insulin pump allows you more freedom without having to calculate insulin to make up for a high carbohydrate meal or excessive exercise, and the pump also prevents severely low blood sugar.

Ø The pump can also be adjusted so you have even better control over your health and can monitor the correct dosages based on your blood sugar allowing better control and fewer swings in blood glucose levels. This greatly reduces the risk of dangerously low blood sugar.

Ø Many symptoms are reduced when switching to an insulin pump, including lower A1C levels. Most users also experience fewer swings in blood sugar levels as well as less hypoglycemic episodes. 

Whether you use an insulin pump or traditional injections, it is important that you continue to check blood sugar levels several times a day.

If are you wondering if an insulin pump is right for you, call us at 1-866-403-6287 and we will be happy to answer your questions. As a well known authority in  insulin pumps for people with diabetes, Focus Express Mail Pharmacy  specialists are highly knowledgeable about medical insurance coverages as well as all supplies for diabetes.  We have more than 20 years of experience in helping people with diabetes obtain pumps for little, if any, expense. Call Now!

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The holidays are just around the corner. For most of us, that means ditching our diets for the next few months and enjoying the food fest that is about to occur. For those of you living with diabetes, you can’t afford to throw your hard work and dedication out the window and eat what you want; your well-being means too much.

How can you enjoy the holidays and not be excluded from the rest of your family and friends?  I have put together a delicious, diabetic-friendly holiday menu everyone will be sure to enjoy.

It is important to focus on flavor when preparing your diabetic-friendly menu. Make sure to incorporate many different herbs and spices, and focus on seasonal fruits and vegetables. Focusing on flavor eliminates the need to cover your food in butter, cream, gravy and salt. You should use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Canned fruits and vegetables are loaded with extra salt and sugar.

Let’s start with the main dish, or the meat. Turkey is the centerpiece at many a holiday gatherings. How does Southern Roast Turkey with Bourbon Peach Glaze sound? If turkey isn’t popular in your house, you can serve a Spiral-Cut Ham with Slow-Roasted Asparagus and Lemon-Thyme Sauce.

Most holiday side dishes are full of carbohydrates. Keep the classics if you must, but offer up some surprising new dishes, too. For instance, Brussels Sprouts with Chestnuts and Sage or Roasted Autumn Vegetables are sure to be new favorites this year.

The last course is always the hardest to avoid: dessert. But you don’t need to remove yourself from the room while your family and friends indulge their sweet tooths. Make your own dessert to share, such as Plum and Apple Compote with Vanilla Custard or even your own diabetic-friendly Pumpkin Pie.

The holiday season does not need to be a time for worry and stress. Enjoy the time with your family and friends, gathering around the table to share in the delicious food that has been prepared in celebration. Just remember: no matter how careful you are with the food you prepare and eat, you still need to monitor your levels. Monitoring is key to managing your diabetes.

Now that my mouth is watering, I think I will go start my holiday feast early! Happy Holidays from all of us here at Focus Express Mail Pharmacy!

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Tis the season to eat, drink and be merry, so to speak. The holiday season is almost here and it can be a very difficult time when you have diabetes. Most celebrations are centered on food, mostly starchy, sugary foods at that. But you don’t need to exclude yourself from the celebration. You, too, can participate in the festivities; just use these tips to help you get through the next few months, while still managing your diabetes.

Start your day off right

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It is especially important for you to make sure that you eat a healthy, filling breakfast on the day of your celebration. Doing so will help curb your hunger cravings later in the day, making you less likely to overindulge.

Fill your plate with healthy choices

When the time comes to fill your plate, make sure that you are selecting healthier options. If you are the host, offer your guests steamed vegetables in lieu of the traditional casseroles, and make your potatoes with skim milk. If you are the guest, make sure to fill up the majority of your plate with white meat (no skin) and raw or steamed vegetables, allowing less room for the high-carb options, such as stuffing.

Skip the extras

You have a perfectly fine meal sitting in front of you. There is no reason to pour gravy all over it to hide the flavor. Skipping the gravy can greatly reduce the amount of carbs you consume. And since we mentioned carbs, skip the bread. Stuffing is made from bread, and you already have that on your plate. Politely pass the breadbasket to the next person. Make compromises with yourself, and exchange one carb for another.

Eat dessert

Being a diabetic does not mean that you can’t eat dessert. It does mean that you need to have a little more self-control. Take a smaller portion of the pie, and try to choose a less sugary option, such as pumpkin pie. Even better: have a small spoonful of each dessert; that way, you don’t have to choose just one. After dessert, invite your family members for a brisk walk, to get your metabolism up.

No matter how careful you are this holiday season, make sure that you monitor your levels at all times. The holidays can be a busy time. Double-check to make sure you have enough supplies to get you through this hectic time of year. If you find you are running low or are out, Focus Express Mail Pharmacy can get you your supplies in 24 hours. Be healthy and merry this season and year ‘round!

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As a person living with diabetes, you constantly hear how important it is to maintain healthy glucose levels. Managing your diabetes is a lifelong commitment. Did you know how important managing your diabetes is to your oral health, as well?  According to a recent study, there is a lack of awareness in diabetic patients and how the disease affects their teeth and gums.

Glucose is not only found in your blood; it can also be measured in your saliva.  A higher level of glucose results in a higher level of plaque in your mouth.  Properly managing your blood sugar levels will help prevent numerous oral issues:

1. Tooth Decay (Cavities)

Reduce consumption of starchy, sugary foods.  When these foods combine with the already-present bacteria in your mouth, you open the door to plaque. Over time, the plaque eats away the hard enamel of your teeth, causing cavities.

2. Gingivitis

Diabetes reduces your body’s ability to fight harmful bacteria. As plaque builds up on your teeth, it hardens and becomes tartar, (that hard stuff they scrap away when you get your teeth cleaned). As tartar and plaque build up on your teeth, your gums become irritated and start to swell and bleed; this is called gingivitis.

3. Periodontitis

If you ignore the signs of gingivitis, periodontitis will appear, rearing its ugly head.  This advanced gum disease destroys both the soft tissue and bone of your mouth.  Your gums will then start to pull away from your teeth, causing your teeth to loosen and eventually fall out.

Any type of gum disease is much more severe in diabetic patients. Not only does gum disease occur more frequently and take longer to heal, but infections can cause your glucose levels to rise, thus complicating, or even advancing your diabetes. Studies show if you can treat your gum disease, you will have a better chance of controlling your diabetes. 

Take these steps to maintain good oral health:

1. Brush, at least twice a day. It is recommended by dentists to brush your teeth after every meal, but you can chew a piece of sugarless gum if you don’t have your toothbrush with you.
2. Floss daily. Flossing is an important step in removing plaque between your teeth. If flossing is a hard habit for you to establish, try using floss sticks, which make it easier.
3. Go to the dentist.  Schedule bi-annual cleanings and remind your dentist you have diabetes. They can advise you on proper treatments and watch for signs of problems.

At Focus Express Mail Pharmacy, we understand the commitment you have to controlling your diabetes.  We want to empower you with the tools you need to be successful. Remember to include these dental habits into your routine. Your teeth and gums will thank you!

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As Old Man Winter creeps in to greet us, it is time to start thinking about ways to stay healthy and fit this winter season.  It can be a challenge to stay active and eat well during the cold months.  Here are some great ways to exercise, eat healthy and stay safe all season long.

Get Moving

Cuddling up on the couch with a soft, cozy blanket and warm cup of tea is awfully inviting when the thermometer starts icing over, but it is crucial to your health to keep your body moving this season.  We all know the benefits of exercise, but getting the blood flowing will also help warm you up.  Give these exercises a try:

• Winter sports (skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating): You don’t feel like you’re exercising as much when you are having fun.  Make a weekend trip out of it and enjoy exercising with your whole family.
• Walk: If you enjoy daily walks, why do they have to stop in the winter? Take your walk inside – malls, indoor tracks, or even inside your own home will work.
• Get to work: Shovel the driveway (and maybe even your neighbor’s) or clean your house.  Household chores gets the whole body moving and can burn a lot of calories. Use caution when shoveling snow – stay hydrated, don’t overdo it, and check with your doctor first if you have any health issues, like heart disease, that might be stressed by shoveling heavy snow.

There are numerous ways to keep active this winter.  Doing various types of activities will help fight the boredom of the season, and exercise is a great way to keep your blood glucose levels in check.

Stay Warm

No matter what activity you are doing this winter season, make sure you stay warm.  Circulation problems are common among diabetic patients. The cold can also affect your diabetes equipment.

1.     Layer up: Wearing layers will help keep you warm and dry while outdoors.  Don’t forget gloves, hats and socks.

2.     Protect your equipment: Meters are temperature sensitive.  The cold can affect their accuracy.  Cold temperatures can also cause your insulin to deteriorate.  To prevent any issues, place your equipment inside your clothing to allow your body heat to keep it warm.

3.     Don’t forget about your feet: Make sure to wear sturdy, supportive, water- and slip-resistant shoes when doing any outdoor activities.

Eat Right

During the winter season, it is common to overeat or opt for quick, less healthy take-out options.  Try these healthier, quick-to-fix dinners:

1.     Crock pot: Place a lean piece of meat and some hearty vegetables in a crock pot in the morning before you leave, and when you get home from work, you will have a fully cooked, healthy meal.

2.     Soup/Stew/Chili: Nothing warms you up in the winter months like a good bowl of soup or chili. Make a large pot on the weekend, and you can eat for days.  Soups and chili also freeze really well.  Make cooking dinner during the week a breeze by freezing soups ahead of time.

3.     Freezer Meals: On the weekend, make several of your favorite dishes that freeze well (lasagna, spaghetti sauce, favorite casserole dishes).  Pull one out each night to warm up and have a full cooked meal in minutes. The warmth from the oven will make the whole house warmer, too.

It is always tough on those cold days to get out and exercise and eat well.  However, you can’t use the cold as an excuse for your health and well-being.  Get out there and enjoy the weather.  You can eat well, exercise and enjoy these next few months.  Please remember to check with your physician before you make any changes to your fitness routine.  From all of us at Focus Express Mail Pharmacy, have fun and stay warm!

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