Diabetes Education

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New Research: Lack of Sleep Tied to Higher Risk of Diabetes in Kids

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child-166062_1920.jpg

A recent UK study suggests that children who don’t get enough sleep are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than kids who typically sleep longer. Each additional hour of sleep children get at night is associated with lower body weight, more lean muscle mass, and less accumulation of sugars in the blood. Since obesity and high blood sugars are contributing factors to developing type 2 diabetes, you can see the possible correlation.

This study, based on 4,525 children ages 9 or 10, found that kids who slept less were more likely to be extremely overweight or obese and have more body fat. Children who got less sleep on average per night were also more likely to have a risk factor called insulin resistance, where their bodies don’t respond normally to insulin. An additional factor, insufficient sleep also affects the level of hormones that control appetite, making kids hungrier and increasing cravings for sweet and salty snacks.

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that children ages 6 to 12 should get 9 to 12 hours of sleep each night. “Getting enough sleep helps keep our appetite in check and is protective against insulin resistance,” said James Gangwisch, a psychiatry researcher at Columbia University who wasn’t involved in the study.

Read the entire Reuters article.

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Best of CGM – Essential Info from Our Most Helpful CGM Blogs

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Dexcom & Medtronic CGM Systems (Photo by Emily Lewis)

Dexcom & Medtronic CGM Systems (Photo by Emily Lewis)

If you are living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) can help you make more informed treatment decisions that can lead to better glycemic control. Learn more about CGM through three of our most valuable blogs from the last year.

Blog 1: Try CGM for More Insights & Tighter Diabetes Monitoring

This article covers the basics and answers questions like:

  • Why is CGM so helpful?
  • How does CGM work?
  • How do insulin pumps and CGM work together?
  • Who can benefit from CGM?
  • How does Healthy Living help you get started with CGM?

Blog 2: The Top 11 Questions about CGM & What You Need to Know

This blog covers these more detailed questions:

  1. What information will I get from Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)?
  2. Can I set a safe range for my blood glucose readings?
  3. Do I still have to test my blood sugar when I am using CGM?
  4. What parts make up a CGM system?
  5. Do I need an insulin pump to use CGM?
  6. What types of CGM systems are available right now?
  7. How long can I wear CGM sensors before I need to change them?
  8. Can I use the same insertion site for my insulin pump and CGM sensors?
  9. Can parents and other care team members access a patient’s CGM data?
  10. Can I view CGM data on a smartwatch?
  11. Is CGM covered by insurance?

Blog 3: Apple Watch’s Non-Invasive Glucose Tracker: Said to Become the "Holy Grail" in Diabetes

This blog describes what we currently know about the process and progress Apple is making in creating a continuous blood glucose sensor that does not break the skin to pair with the Apple Watch.

We love to help.

You can reach our Insulin Pump & CGM Therapy Team for more information via phone call at 866.779.8512 (Option 2) or text message at 248.577.9903.

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CGM Basics: Clarifying the System & Benefits in 5 Questions

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Checking CGM data on an iPhone, image from pexels.com.

Checking CGM data on an iPhone, image from pexels.com.

Over a big group dinner the other night, I found out that there is a considerable amount of confusion about both what CGM is and the differences between CGM and insulin pumps. Hopefully this blog will help shed some light on these questions!

1. What information will I get from Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)?

CGM measures glucose in the tissue fluid throughout the day and night, about every five minutes, and sends the collected data to a receiver, phone, or insulin pump. This information can tell you how your glucose levels are trending, so you can make better decisions about your insulin dosing.

2. How can CGM help me manage diabetes better?

A continuous glucose monitor is a small wearable device system that tracks your glucose throughout the day and night, notifying you of highs and lows so you can take action. A CGM system consists of 3 parts:

  • Small, under-the-skin sensor that measures glucose levels
  • Transmitter that attaches to the sensor and transmits data
  • Receiver that displays real-time glucose information

3. Are there additional benefits of CGM?

Continuous glucose monitoring can help you make the best possible decisions since you'll be able to see your trend data provided by the CGM instead of basing choices only on a number from a blood glucose meter reading. You can also set thresholds for high and low numbers, and the CGM will alert you when it senses your glucose levels have moved out of the safe range you set.

4. Is CGM covered by insurance?

Yes, CGM is covered by many insurance plans. Our Insulin Pump & CGM Therapy Team can help you obtain a prescription from your doctor, navigate the insurance verification process, and place your CGM system order. They also help customers with CGM supply refills.

5. What is the difference between CGM & insulin pumps?

Continuous glucose monitoring collects information on your blood glucose levels. This information can be used for proper insulin dosing through your insulin pump. CGM and insulin pumps can be used separately (a person can use just one or the other) or together.

 

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Can Turmeric Help Manage Diabetes? What the Evidence Says…

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Curcumin, which is found in the spice turmeric, has been found to help control blood sugar, improve insulin sensitivity, reduce diabetes-related complications, and even prevent diabetes. Check out this article to learn about turmeric, a potential positive addition to your existing diabetes management plan.

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Advanced Insulin Pump Workshop Offers Great New Insights

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A few weeks ago, when Healthy Living attended the JDRF TypeOneNation Summit in Belleville, our team members chose different breakout sessions to attend. We all learned a lot, and I want to take some time to pool our knowledge and share it with you!

Our Insulin Pump & CGM Therapy team attended a workshop that went in depth on insulin pump therapy, presented by Dr. Lowell Schmeltz. Here are some of the things that Crystal and George learned from the course.

Advanced Features Improve Results

Insulin pumps include many advanced features and functions that patients searching for tighter control of their diabetes can utilize. These optional features can make pumping more complicated, but if used correctly can greatly improve the results of pump therapy.  One example is that some pumps offer is a dual-wave bolus, which contains a normal bolus as well as a second wave of insulin that is delivered over time. This is especially beneficial when eating foods that are high in fat and carbs, like pizza.

Insulin Pump Therapy Requires Focus

Pump users and caregivers need to remember a lot of information and continually go through a number of steps to maintain control with their insulin pumps. Dr. Schmeltz explained that the biggest issue that comes up for individuals using the pump goes back to the basics – entering their carbs for meals. He believes that people should read packages and measure their food for accurate carb counting (instead of estimates and guesses).

Simplifying for Encouragement

Dr. Schmeltz really engaged with attendees and had a great way of simplifying complicated concepts to make pump users feel comfortable with the idea of trying new things. One more of his recommendations was for patients to download their pump data between physician visits so their doctor can review their status at appointment time and make any necessary changes to their regimen.

We also were excited to learn about some of the new pump technology that is being tested, including the artificial pancreas. This new technology is much closer to being available to patients than many of us realized!

 

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Omnipod Insulin Pumps Wow with Many Unique Benefits

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Image courtesy of Wikipedia Commons

Image courtesy of Wikipedia Commons

Many people have come to know the benefits of the Omnipod. This community of “Podders” appreciate many really awesome features that make the Omnipod tubeless insulin pump different.

Waterproof + No Disconnect

The Omnipod is waterproof (and sweat-proof), for showering, bathing, swimming, surfing, or dancing in the rain. Because of this, there is never a need to disconnect from the pump. Omnipod’s waterproof qualities also mean that it’s a great pump for active people – adults and kids alike! This pump truly offers continuous insulin delivery with three days of nonstop insulin with no need to disconnect.

Tubeless Convenience

The small, lightweight (weights just 25 grams with an empty reservoir) Omnipod insulin pumps are tubeless, and they can attach to your body at any place where you could inject insulin. This means you can be as discreet as you want to be with your pump insertion site. Plus, there are no tubes to tangle!

Easy to Use

With the Omnipod, you will not be tied to an injection schedule or tethered to an insulin pump. The system is made up of two parts: the tubeless Pod and the Personal Diabetes Manager (PDM), kept nearby to wirelessly program insulin delivery. The PDM has a built-in FreeStyle blood glucose monitor, and the Omnipod can be used with any CGM system.

It has an uncomplicated needle insertion process – the cannula inserts hands-free, and you never have to see the needle. The Omnipod is cleared for people of all ages who have diabetes and use insulin…including children and teens.

Healthy Living Knows the Omnipod System

Matt Montagne, our VP of Strategy & Innovation at Healthy Living shared, “The Omnipod solution is a great option for those people with an active lifestyle who want an easy-to-use and reliable system. Healthy Living has been providing this solution to members for many years – we know it well and appreciate its many benefits!”

Reach out to our Insulin Pump & CGM Therapy Team for more information, or to start the process of obtaining an Omnipod pump. They will verify your insurance to find out if it’s covered for you. Call 866.779.8512 (Option 2), text us at 248.577.9903, or chat with us at myhlms.com.

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V-Go Anywhere with Your Insulin Delivery

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Healthy Living meeting with the V-Go rep.

Healthy Living meeting with the V-Go rep.

“It is easy, discreet, always there.”

This past week, Healthy Living employees had the opportunity to hear from a few company representatives about the V-Go product. V-Go has been around since 2012, however not many providers and patients are aware of its capabilities for improving patient adherence and outcomes. The company representatives gave us a better understanding of the V-Go system so we can more effectively support customers considering V-Go as a treatment and therapy option.

Informative Past Post about V-Go

A few weeks back, Emily wrote about the V-Go on our blog and since then we have been growing our knowledge on this new technology daily. According to Emily’s post, the V-Go provides a steady rate of insulin 24 hours a day (basal). It allows patients to give themselves a dose of insulin with snacks and during mealtimes (bolus). 

Facts about V-Go

The V-Go is for adult patients and despite the confusion, the V-Go is not an insulin pump. For individuals who are constantly on the go and do not want the bother of multiple daily injections, the V-Go may be an excellent option. The V-Go allows the user to load insulin into the device for a rapid-onset dose of insulin. The device is wearable, discreet, and disposable, however it does need to be changed every 24 hours with a new, insulin-filled, V-Go device. The V-Go is extremely versatile as it can be worn when showering and sleeping.

How Can I Start V-Go?!

Even though the V-Go is not known to many people, it can be a positive substitute for other therapies and injections. Here at Healthy Living, we can verify your insurance and collect all of the necessary documentation needed to receive the V-Go as a medical or pharmacy benefit. There is a process to apply for the V-Go, and the coverage is dependent on your insurance company. With most commercial plans that Healthy Living Medical Supply works with, just a prescription is required from your doctor. However, some plans do require authorization. For plans that need authorization, criteria may include a patient’s qualifying blood work and lab work, tracked by the patient and the doctor. The authorization process takes about two weeks, however the length of time depends on the type of insurance.

What Our Fabulous Reps Say about the V-Go

George K., one of Healthy Living’s customer care representatives, sat down with me to chat about his experience with setting customers up with the V-Go. He said that he has seen an increased interest in the product, and customers who do choose the V-Go usually tend to stay with it.

Healthy Living’s Meeting with V-Go Company Representatives

Some studies have shown that multiple daily injections create challenges for patient adherence. Kris Euler, the V-Go company representative who spoke with Healthy Living employees said, “75% of people do not inject insulin away from home - V-Go increases the chance for people to perform their shots while they are outside of their home." With V-Go, the patient can receive their insulin hassle-free with a simple click of a button. It is known for its overall ease of use.

Further Questions and Information

If you have any other questions about the V-Go and all its benefits, please do not hesitate to contact our Customer Care team at Healthy Living at (866)779-8512. We strive to provide you with the highest standard of service and want to increase your knowledge about different therapy options to help you manage your diabetes the best way possible.

 

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Replay: Meet the Glucagon App - A Place to Learn & Prepare

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A view of the Lilly Glucagon app in the App Store.

A view of the Lilly Glucagon app in the App Store.

Lilly Glucagon is designed to treat patients with diabetes and severe hypoglycemia. Do you have a Glucagon kit at home, and do you and your loved ones know how to use it?

You can get a white teaching kit from Lilly by calling (800)LILLY-RX. And to learn more, you could try the mightily helpful Glucagon phone app, simply called “Glucagon.” You can use this app to go through a practice simulation of using Glucagon in an emergency, including how to mix (swirl) the powder and liquid and where to inject (thigh, arm, or buttocks).

Most importantly, there is a special section with instructions for an actual emergency, with animated pictures and audio directions.

The Glucagon app also has a section about “My Kit Information” to help you track where you are keeping your kit(s) in the house and when they expire. There is a function to set reminders to make sure you update your Glucagon kit before passing the expiration date.

In the app's content, you can learn more about this critical emergency treatment tool, including:

  • When it's appropriate to use Glucagon
  • Contraindications and precautions
  • Details about severe low blood sugar
  • Glucagon tips
  • Other helpful diabetes links

Glucagon, Scripts, and Your Insurance

Glucagon is covered by most insurance companies, but it's different for each. It also requires a doctor's prescription. If you are interested in obtaining a Glucagon kit, call Healthy Living Pharmacy at (866)779-8512 (Option 4). Our pharmacy team can help you get set up, including calling the doctor to request a prescription on your behalf.  You can also send us your written prescription, or we can transfer your script from another pharmacy if that would be helpful to you.

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The Top 11 Questions about CGM & What You Need to Know

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If you are living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) can help you make more informed treatment decisions that can lead to better glycemic control. 

Top 11 Questions about CGM

1. What information will I get from Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)?

CGM measures glucose in the tissue fluid throughout the day and night, about every five minutes, and sends the collected data to a receiver, phone, or insulin pump. This information can tell you how your glucose levels are trending, so you can make better decisions about your insulin dosing.

2. Can I set a ‘safe range’ for my blood glucose readings?

You can set thresholds for high and low numbers, and the CGM will alert you when it senses your glucose levels have moved out of the range you set.

3. Do I still have to test my blood sugar when I am using CGM?

With CGM, to calibrate the sensor, you will still have to test your blood sugar 2-4 times per day, depending on the CGM system you have.

4. What parts make up a CGM system?

A CGM system consists of three parts:

  • A small under-the-skin sensor that measures glucose levels
  • A transmitter that attaches to the sensor and transmits data
  • A receiver that displays real-time glucose information

5. Do I need an insulin pump to use CGM?

No – although some CGM systems can tie in with a pump, CGM can be used independently.

6. What types of CGM systems are available right now?

Medtronic and Dexcom both offer CGM systems with different features.

7. How long can I wear CGM sensors before I need to change them?

You can wear sensors for 5-7 days, depending on which CGM system you are using.

8. Can I use the same insertion site for my insulin pump and CGM sensors?

No, CGM and an insulin pump require two different sites.

9. Can parents and other care team members access a patient’s CGM data?

Yes, certain models of CGM systems are compatible with the iPhone to allow care team members to remotely monitor CGM data via text alerts and/or an iPhone app. This can be especially helpful to parents who have children with diabetes, as they can monitor their blood sugar levels from afar (for example, the daughter is at school and her dad is at work).

10. Can I view CGM data on a smartwatch?

Yes, Dexcom G5 will display CGM on an Apple Watch. Visit Dexcom's Apple Watch page to learn more.

11. Is CGM covered by insurance?

Yes, CGM is covered by many insurance plans. Our Insulin Pump & CGM Therapy Team can help you obtain a prescription from your doctor, navigate the insurance verification process, and place your CGM system order. They also help customers with CGM supply refills.

You can reach George and Crystal on the Healthy Living Insulin Pump & CGM Therapy Team at (866)779-8512 (Option 2) and learn more about CGM and the systems we offer at myhlms.com/cgm.

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Telling the Truth about 8 Insulin Pump Therapy Myths

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The Healthy Living Insulin Pump & CGM Therapy Team receives all kinds of questions every day. I sat down with them to learn more about what ‘myths’ or misconceptions people have about insulin pumps. Then, we figured out the best way to explain the truth of the situation!

#1

Myth: An insulin pump is implanted in the body and requires surgery to get started.

Fact: Insulin pumps are worn outside of the body as devices and are attached to a removable site that the patient changes every three days.

#2

Myth: Insulin pumps are big and bulky.

Fact: An insulin pump is about the same size as a small flip phone or a pager (and about half the size of a regular cell phone).

#3

Myth: Pumps are permanent.

Fact: Insulin pumps are removable and can be taken off for showering or swimming, but back-up insulin (shots) must be used.

#4

Myth: With an insulin pump, there is no longer a need to test blood sugar.

Fact: When using an insulin pump, patients still need to test their blood and count carbs. It is recommended to test blood sugars at least four times daily.

#5

Myth: Someone needs to be ‘tech savvy’ to figure out how to use an insulin pump.

Fact: If you can operate a cell phone or remote control, you should be able to work with an insulin pump. Thankfully, pump manufacturers offer great customer support and training.

#6

Myth: Using an insulin pump is more painful than multiple daily injections.

Fact: Inserting an insulin pump site hurts about the same as one shot, but the site only must be changed every three days. The frequency works out to well over 1,000 shots a year with multiple daily injections (MDI), with a little over 100 insertions a year with an insulin pump.

#7

Myth: Pumps are only used for people with Type 1 Diabetes.

Fact: Many insurances cover insulin pumps for people with Type 2 Diabetes, and insulin pump therapy can be a great contribution to the work of managing T2D.

#8

Myth: Insurance won’t cover insulin pumps.

Fact: Our Insulin Pump & CGM Therapy Team can work with customers, their doctors, and their insurance companies to help people with diabetes obtain insurance-covered pumps. Call Crystal and George at (866)779-8512 (Option 2) to check out your options.

WE LOVE TO HELP.

  • Call us @ (866)779-8512 or text us @ (248)577-9903.
  • Reach us through online chat at myhlms.com.
  • Sign up for the Healthy Living Blog at myhlms.com/subscribe.
  • Check out our online store at store.myhlms.com for accessories and over-the-counter medications.
  • Visit myhlms.com/providers to electronically complete and sign prescriptions for patients.
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Try CGM for More Insights & Tighter Diabetes Monitoring

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Dexcom & Medtronic CGM

Why is CGM so helpful?

Maybe you have heard of ‘CGM’ – this refers to Continuous Glucose Monitoring, a system that helps patients with diabetes make more informed treatment decisions that can lead to better glycemic control.

CGM delivers fast and reliable glucose readings every five minutes or so to a receiver, a phone, or an insulin pump - logging hundreds of readings a day. A finger-prick blood glucose check gives only one reading at a time, in the moment it is taken. With only this piece of information, it's hard to know if blood glucose is staying steady, rising, or falling.

With CGM, patients can also set thresholds for high and low numbers, and the CGM alerts them when it senses their glucose levels are moving out of the safe range they set. 

How does CGM work?

A continuous glucose monitor is a small, wearable device system that tracks glucose levels throughout the day and night, notifying patients of highs and lows so they can take action when needed. A CGM system consists of three parts:

·      A small, under-the-skin sensor that measures glucose levels

·      A transmitter that attaches to the sensor and transmits data

·      A receiver that displays real-time glucose information

How do insulin pumps and CGM work together?

Right now, there are only two manufacturers of CGM – Medtronic and Dexcom – and their products have different strengths and features:

·        Dexcom CGM can be used with any pump, or without a pump.

·        The Dexcom G5 CGM can use the iPhone as receiver, which is great for caregivers of young kids with diabetes (for example, they can see the data when they’re at work and their child is at school).

·        The Tandem t:slim G4 insulin pump pairs with the Dexcom G4 CGM to allow users to view their CGM data directly on the color touchscreen pump.

·        Medtronic has integrated systems where their insulin pumps and CGM work together – the MiniMed® 530G with Enlite CGM and the MiniMed® 630G with the Guardian CGM.

·        Medtronic’s CGM, integrated with their pumps, provides Threshold Suspend, which suspends insulin delivery if it detects that a patient’s glucose levels are dropping below the safe range.

Learn more about the unique features of Dexcom and Medtronic CGM. 

Who can benefit from CGM?

Many different kinds of people use and benefit from CGM, including people with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, from kids to older adults. This is a good step toward using an insulin pump and getting used to the regimen of having an infusion site to change. For Dexcom CGM, patients change the site every seven days, and for Medtronic CGM, patients need to change the site every six days.

How does Healthy Living help you get started with CGM?

Healthy Living can help with enrollment for CGM and ongoing, monthly supply refills. The enrollment process is very similar to insulin pump enrollment. Many Healthy Living patients use CGM, because it gives them the opportunity for tighter monitoring and better diabetes management.

Is there any new CGM technology on the horizon?

The Abbott Freestyle Libre Glucose Monitor is in use in Europe and has been receiving glowing reviews. With these features, this meter is especially exciting:

·        Very tiny glucose sensor (0.2 inches in length, about the thickness of a hair) with a simple insertion process

·        Water resistant, plastic, on-body patch the size of a one-dollar coin

·        Sensor that remains inserted for 14 days and does not require finger-stick calibrations

·        One-hour startup time

This CGM is currently under review in the U.S. by the FDA. It looks like it will be an effective option for patients to gain better insight into their blood sugar levels while coming in at a very competitive price point. Check out this article to learn more.

We are monitoring the FDA approval process for the Abbott CGM and should be able to provide this exciting new product to our customers when it becomes available.

Ready to learn more about CGM?

When you are ready to consider putting this beneficial CGM technology to use for your own diabetes management, call Crystal and George - our Insulin Pump & CGM Therapy Team - at (866)779-8512.

    WE LOVE TO HELP.

    • Sign up for the Healthy Living Blog at myhlms.com/subscribe.
    • Call us @ (866)779-8512 or text us @ (248)577-9903.
    • Reach us through online chat at myhlms.com.
    • Check out our online store at myhlms.com/shop for accessories and over-the-counter medications.
    • Visit myhlms.com/providers to electronically complete and sign prescriptions for patients.

    WE MAKE MANAGING YOUR DIABETES SUPPLIES EASY.

    • We work with many insurance plan partners.
    • You can approve your refills via text or phone.
    • Our company’s focus is excellence in customer service.
    • In addition to providing supplies, we also have a mail-order pharmacy.
    • Diabetes is our specialty, and we’re prepared to help!

     

     

     

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    Keep Learning - A Visual Guide to Type 2 Diabetes

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    Sometimes conditions like Type 2 Diabetes can be hard to understand, and hard to explain to others. WebMD offers a great overview of Type 2 Diabetes in Slideshow: A Visual Guide to Type 2 Diabetes.

    Go at your own pace to learn about Type 2 Diabetes, or use this slideshow as a tool to educate your friends and family members. The presentation has interesting and clear images and photos, and simple, easy-to-understand descriptions and explanations. Its value is in its simplicity and clean presentation.

    The slideshow teaches about these areas of Type 2 Diabetes:

    ·        Prevention

    ·        Symptoms

    ·        Diagnosis

    ·        Treatment

    ·        Details of the condition

    ·        Risk factors

    ·        Long-term effects

    Keep learning and empowering yourself with knowledge about diabetes!

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    Starting Insulin Pump Therapy Is Easy When Healthy Living Handles the Details

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    The Healthy Living Insulin Pump Therapy Team: George and Crystal collectively have 24 years of experience serving people with diabetes.

    The Healthy Living Insulin Pump Therapy Team: George and Crystal collectively have 24 years of experience serving people with diabetes.

    If someone with diabetes is interested in beginning to use an insulin pump, the best thing they can to do is call the Healthy Living Insulin Pump Therapy Team (meet the stellar lineup of George and Crystal). They make what can be a very complicated enrollment process very easy.

    9 Steps to Collaborating with Healthy Living for a New Insulin Pump

    When a member, let’s call him ‘Hank,’ is interested in getting started with insulin pump therapy, our Insulin Pump Therapy Team sets the process in motion by:

    1.     Finding out if Hank has talked to his doctor about the pump request.

    2.     Verifying Hank’s insurance and finding out what kinds of pumps he qualifies for and the associated copays.

    3.     Explaining to Hank what insulin pumps are covered and their basic differences.

    4.     Encouraging him to personally research his options on pump manufacturer websites and talk to his doctor for a recommendation.

    5.     Facilitating the prior authorization process (required by some health plans), by gathering documents demonstrating medical necessity:

    ·       Blood sugar logs for the prior 60 days

    ·       Clinical notes from last two office visits

    ·       Proof of diabetes education

    ·       Qualifying lab results (A1c, fasting glucose, and C-peptide)

    6.     Confirming order details with Hank and shipping out his insulin pump, once approved by his insurance company.

    7.     Telling Hank about pump training, which is normally scheduled by the pump manufacturers.

    8.     Setting Hank up to get recurring orders for pump supplies, with refill reminders available via phone, text, or email. Members going on a pump also often like to get their test strips, glucometer, and pharmacy medications through Healthy Living so that everything comes in one box.

    9.     And down the road…obtaining prescriptions for refills on pump supplies for members as needed.

    Communication with the Doctor’s Office & Insurance Company Is Covered

    There are a lot of minutia to put together to obtain and start using an insulin pump, and the details require patience and lots of communication. Healthy Living collaborates directly with the doctor’s office and the insurance company for members. We take care of all documentation and information gathering, and request everything that is needed from the doctor.

    A Team Prepared to Serve by Years of Experience

    Healthy Living and our dedicated Insulin Pump Therapy Team has years (24 years collectively, between Crystal and George) of experience working with people with diabetes. Our company fosters empathy in employees, through the weeklong Wear-a-Pump Challenges and other ongoing education. Healthy Living works with all major insulin pump manufacturers, including OmniPod, Tandem Diabetes Care and Medtronic. We are fully prepared to help customers understand their options and enroll to start receiving the benefits of insulin pump therapy, making the process as smooth and effortless as possible!

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    3-Every-30: New Activity Recommendations from the American Diabetes Association

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    Leandra practices leg extensions.

    Leandra practices leg extensions.

    Get ready to keep moving. This November, the American Diabetes Association released evidence-based recommendations for physical activity and exercise. As part of blood glucose management and overall health, physical activity and exercise are recommended as a critical focus for all individuals with diabetes and prediabetes. Exercise is planned, structured physical activity (like jogging, elliptical, swimming, or strength training) and physical activity is any movement that increases energy use. 

    The American Diabetes Association suggests that all adults decrease daily sedentary time and recommends breaking up sitting with bouts of light activity. Their statement explains that interruptions of inactivity are highly beneficial for people with type 1 diabetes. This light physical activity should be a complement to more structured exercise sessions to improve blood glucose and insulin sensitivity. Improved heart health and weight loss are also benefits of this activity combination.

    3-Every-30

    Think “3-Every-30” – three minutes of activity for every half hour spent being relatively still. Here are some examples of light activities to intersperse with sitting:

    ·       Walking

    ·       Calf raises

    ·       Shoulder shrugs

    ·       Leg raises or extensions

    ·       Overhead arm stretches

    ·       Climbing stairs

    ·       Desk chair swivels

    ·       Torso twists

    ·       Standing hip extensions

    Other daily activities that reduce sitting time – such as yard work, house cleaning, walking the dog, and running errands – are also great ways to keep moving and improve health.

    Choose exercises and activities that work for your individual preferences and needs. The hope is that these behavior-changing strategies will help create a more natural, intentional lifetime of physical activity and improved health for many people.

    Learn much more, including details about the ADA’s recommendations:

    Physical Activity/Exercise and Diabetes: A Position Statement of the American Diabetes Association

    Three Minutes Every 30 Minutes – New Exercise Recommendation for Diabetes and Prediabetes

    WE LOVE TO HELP.

    • Reach us through online chat at myhlms.com.

    • Call us @ (866)779-8512 or text us @ (248)577-9903.

    • Sign up for the Healthy Living blog at myhlms.com/subscribe.

    • Check out our online store at myhlms.com/shop for accessories and over-the-counter medications.

    • Visit myhlms.com/providers to electronically complete and sign prescriptions for patients.

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    Raise Your Hands for the Big Blue Test

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    This month, the Big Blue Test finished their fall push to collect more than 150,000 Big Blue Tests by November 14th to raise awareness about the importance of exercise in connection with diabetes management and to raise funds for community organizations. Big Blue Tests started being logged in 2010, and as of November 18, 2016… more than 152,000 tests have been recorded – 2016 goal met!  

    The Big Blue Test is a program of the Diabetes Hands Foundation, an organization that rallies communities to experience the impact that small changes can have on their health. Their mission is to bring together people touched by diabetes for positive change, to make sure that no one living with this condition ever feels alone. Instead of looking at the disease, Diabetes Hands Foundation seeks to understand, connect, and energize the millions of people living with diabetes.

    What Is the Big Blue Test?

    The Big Blue Test started in 2009 as a creative way to encourage people with diabetes to stay active. People can participate whether they are living with diabetes or not. Taking the Big Blue Test is easy:

    1. Test your blood glucose. If you do not have diabetes, you can skip this step.

    2. Get active. For 14 to 20 minutes, get up and get moving. You can walk, run, clean the house, swim, tap dance…whatever!

    3. Test again. On average, Big Blue Testers saw their blood glucose level drop 20% after 14-20 minutes of exercise.

    4. Share your results. Answer the questions in the right column of this page.

    It’s easy to forget how important exercise is as part of managing diabetes. In spite of how little time 14 to 20 minutes of exercise may sound like, most participants in the Big Blue Test experience an average blood sugar drop of 20%. This can be a significant drop for most people with diabetes.

    Each Big Blue Test helps participants and helps others. A generous $250,000 has been awarded in Big Blue Test grants by the Diabetes Hands Foundation over the past 4 years. Three non-profit initiatives will each receive $5,000 in funding during the fall 2016 campaign:

    ·       DiabetesSisters 

    ·       We Are Diabetes 

    ·       Riverside Community Diabetes Collaborative 

    To learn more about the Big Blue Test in action, check out a blog and video from Stacey Simms of Diabetes Connections, where she discusses a Big Blue Test event she organized at her son’s elementary school. And find out how to organize your own school event here.

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    Happy Healthy Living Holidays!

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    Thank you to Christina Hamilton, our guest blogger!

    Thank you to Christina Hamilton, our guest blogger!

    Focusing on What’s Important

    With the holidays fast approaching, it becomes an even more challenging time for someone living with diabetes to find their balance while partaking in the traditions and festivities of the season.  We hope that the information provided in this blog post will allow you to focus on the more important things in life this Thanksgiving, like giving thanks for the ones you love.

    Navigating the Holiday Feast with the American Diabetes Association

    Read on - the American Diabetes Association helps us by giving strategies for eating wisely at Thanksgiving.

    Turkey

    •        Turkey is a high-protein food and has no carbohydrates. A portion is about 3-4 ounces, which is about the size of your palm.

    •        Remove the skin on your turkey before eating it and choose white breast meat which is the leanest part of the bird.

    •        Roast your turkey instead of deep-frying it. Roasting is a cooking method that requires little-to-no added fat. Be sure to add some seasonings.

    Stuffing

    •        The main ingredient in most stuffing recipes is bread, so it’s high in carbohydrates and will need to be counted in your meal plan.

    •        One half cup of stuffing usually has about 15-30 grams of carbohydrate. Because it can vary, be sure to check the nutrition facts for your recipe.

    •        Add extra non-starchy veggies like onions, carrots, celery, and mushrooms to your stuffing and use whole grain or 100% whole wheat bread.

    Potatoes

    •        From buttery mashed potatoes to sweet potato casserole – these dishes can really pack in the carbohydrates, saturated fat, and calories.

    •        Keep portions small, especially if there is a lot of added cheese, butter, or cream. One-half cup of mashed potatoes usually has about 15 grams of carbohydrate.

    •        At the table, there’s no need to add a lot of extra sour cream or butter to your potatoes. Simply season them with a bit of freshly ground pepper or some trans-free margarine. Instead of sour cream, try non-fat Greek yogurt which is a much healthier alternative.

    •        Sweet potatoes are especially flavorful on their own – there’s no need for a lot of extra sugar or butter!

    •        If you’re in charge of the potatoes this year, choose a “made-over” potato recipe that uses healthier ingredients. See the recipe at the end of this blog for ideas!

    Green Bean Casserole & Vegetable Side Dishes

    •        Fill half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables. Choose vegetable side dishes that include roasted or cooked vegetables without creamy sauces.

    •        Offer to bring a delicious green salad for the occasion and serve the dressing on the side.

    •        Season veggie side dishes with fresh herbs or onions and garlic. 

    Cranberry sauce

    •        This usually has a lot of added sugar and is dense in carbohydrates – just two tablespoons have almost 15 grams of carbohydrate.

    •        If you absolutely cannot live without it, make sure you use just a tablespoon or two on top of your turkey. A little bit will go a long way!

    Try Something New

    Here is a recipe for herb and olive oil mashed potatoes to try this year from the Mediterranean Diabetes Cookbook by Amy Riolo. You can follow the recipe closely or combine the recipe with your traditional family favorite to add flavor to your potatoes in a healthier way.

    WE LOVE TO HELP.

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    • Check out our new online store at myhlms.com/shop for accessories and over-the-counter medications.

    • Visit myhlms.com/providers to electronically complete and sign prescriptions for patients.

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    Meet the Glucagon App - A Place to Learn & Prepare

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    A view of the Lilly Glucagon app in the App Store.

    A view of the Lilly Glucagon app in the App Store.

    Lilly Glucagon is designed to treat patients with diabetes and severe hypoglycemia. Do you have a Glucagon kit at home, and do you or your loved ones know how to use it?

    You can get a white teaching kit from Lilly by calling (800)LILLY-RX. And to learn more, you could try the mightily helpful Glucagon phone app, simply called “Glucagon.” You can use this app to go through a practice simulation of using Glucagon in an emergency, including how to mix (swirl) the powder and liquid and where to inject (thigh, arm, or buttocks).

    Most importantly, there is a special section with instructions for an actual emergency, with animated pictures and audio directions.

    The Glucagon app also has a section about “My Kit Information” to help you track where you are keeping your kit(s) in the house and when they expire. There is a function to set reminders to make sure you update your Glucagon kit before passing the expiration date.

    In the app's content, you can learn more about this critical emergency treatment tool, including:

    ·        When it's appropriate to use Glucagon

    ·        Contraindications and precautions

    ·        Details about severe low blood sugar

    ·        Glucagon tips

    ·        Other helpful diabetes links

    WE LOVE TO HELP.

    • Reach us through online chat at myhlms.com.

    • Call us @ (866)779-8512 or text us @ (248)577-9903.

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    • Check out our new online store at myhlms.com/shop for accessories and over-the-counter medications.

    • Visit myhlms.com/providers to electronically complete and sign prescriptions for patients.

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    From the Archives – How to Safely Dispose of Expired Medications

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    Thank you to Mira Patel, Healthy Living Pharmacist, for contributing to this post.

    When medications have expired or are no longer needed, the question becomes, “How do I safely get rid of these drugs?” There are a few ways to dispose of medications that are safe for people, animals, and the environment.

    Medication Disposal Options

    The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) sets up collection sites nationwide for National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. The goals of this day is to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.

    Local law enforcement and waste management authorities can also take expired/unused medications back. There are collectors registered with the DEA that can help with unneeded drugs. Visit the Diversion Control Division website of the Drug Enforcement Administration or call (800)882-9539 for more information.

    Home Disposal

    If none of the above options are available, consumers can also dispose of medications in their household trash when these guidelines are followed:

    1. Mix pills with dirt, kitty litter, or used coffee grounds and put it in a sealed plastic bag. (Do not crush tablets and capsules.)
    2. Throw the plastic bag in household trash.
    3. Before throwing away empty pill bottles, make sure to remove all personal and doctor’s information from the bottle.

    There are some medications that are very harmful and can be fatal with even one dose if ingested by someone other than the patient who was prescribed that specific medication. For these meds, it is crucial to find a take-back program or DEA collector. If that is not possible, one may safely flush the medication down the toilet or in a sink (as a last resort). Find a list of these drugs here.

    WE LOVE TO HELP.

    • Reach us through online chat at myhlms.com.
    • Call us @ (866)779-8512 or text us @ (248)577-9903.
    • Sign up for the Healthy Living blog at myhlms.com/subscribe.
    • Check out our new online store at myhlms.com/shop for accessories and over-the-counter medications.
    • Visit myhlms.com/providers to electronically complete and sign prescriptions for patients.
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    This Amazing Researcher Is Creating the Smart Patch - It Uses Microneedles to Release Insulin

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    Check out this article in Diabetes Forecast featuring Zhen Gu, biomedical engineer and researcher, who is reducing the need for needles in diabetes care. He is creating a “smart patch” which uses microneedles to release insulin in tune with the body’s needs. Amazing!

    Zhen Gu, researcher from University of North Carolina

    Zhen Gu, researcher from University of North Carolina

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    Dr. Bernstein’s Low-Carb Diabetes Diet

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    A legend in the diabetes community, Dr. Richard Bernstein was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in the mid-1940s. He has helped bring about many changes in lifestyle and medical treatment for people with diabetes since then. As part of this process, Dr. Bernstein became an endocrinologist and created a specialized low-carbohydrate diet, used by many people today.

    Check out the great story about Dr. Bernstein’s life, many contributions, and specific health recommendations on Diabetes Daily.

    We're here to help!

    • Reach us through online chat at myhlms.com.
    • Text us @ (248)577-9903.
    • Check out our new online store at myhlms.com/shop for accessories and over-the-counter medications.
    • Visit myhlms.com/providers to electronically complete and sign prescriptions for patients.
    Dr. Bernstein highlights the difference between a high- and low-carb diet on blood sugars.

    Dr. Bernstein highlights the difference between a high- and low-carb diet on blood sugars.