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Everything you need to know about HbA1c

Everything you need to know about HbA1c

Hemoglobin A1c, HbA1c, A1c… You have probably heard these letters and numbers before. However, what do they actually mean? What is an HbA1c test? What is a “normal” HbA1c level? What can you do to lower your HbA1c? These are great questions. Well, we’ve put together everything you need to know about HbA1c here. What is the HbA1c test? Hemoglobin is the part of your blood that carries oxygen. It’s what gives your blood its red color. When glucose is processed by your body and enters your bloodstream, a small amount of it...

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The Benefits of Staying Active

The Benefits of Staying Active

Physical activity is good for everyone, but for people living with diabetes, it can make a big difference in keeping your blood sugar level managed. Not only that, but staying active allows your cells to process insulin more efficiently, improving your overall A1c levels. The many benefits to staying active Physical activity is one of the cornerstones of managing your diabetes, because the list of benefits for people living with diabetes is long. Physical activity can1: Improve...

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What you need to know about Hypoglycemia

What you need to know about Hypoglycemia

Understanding blood sugar levels and how it affects your body is very important. Regular checking of your blood sugar and knowing the signs of blood sugar that is too high or low can help you take action quickly. The goal is to help keep you safe and ensure your glucose levels are in range. In this article, we'll look at what hypoglycemia is and its symptoms. Hypoglycemia occurs when your blood glucose drops too low. The body responds to low blood glucose with warning signs that may be different from one person to another. Some warnings...

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Coming to terms with a diabetes diagnosis

Coming to terms with a diabetes diagnosis

You’ve just received the news: you or your child are living with diabetes. After the initial shock, you’ll probably experience a whole range of emotions and have a ton of questions. It’s a normal process that’s unique to everyone, and it may include the following stages: Denial. You don’t believe the diagnosis. Anger. You feel a sense of injustice, or anxiety that turns into revolt. Bargaining. You partially accept the situation, but question...

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Building a sense of community

Building a sense of community

You may be surprised to learn that an entire diabetes community exists in Canada, and possibly in your area. Consider getting involved with a local association or a support group. After all, who better to understand the diabetes-related issues you face than someone also affected by the disease or a healthcare professional who has in-depth knowledge on the subject? A sense of community can improve your overall well-being, which means you may find the extra inspiration you need to stick to your eating, physical activity and blood glucose testing...

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Adolescente regardant sa pompe à insuline

One Insulin Pump, Five Scenarios

Your insulin pump is a stalwart ally in everyday life, but some situations will require special attention (or a bit of ingenuity) from you; here are five examples. In the shower or bath. Most pumps are resistant to splashes, but cannot be submerged in water. You have two options: either disconnect your pump or find a safe place for it. If you choose the first option, check your blood sugar before and after the disconnection and don’t spend more than an hour without your pump. If you’d rather keep it with you, you can place it on the edge of the tub or in the soap...

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Managing diabetes for kids

Managing diabetes for kids

A diagnosis of diabetes should not diminish your child’s quality of life. You and your child will have additional responsibilities over the years, but the added self-discipline may work in your child's favour. As a parent of an infant or toddler newly diagnosed with diabetes, your child’s diagnosis may affect you much more than it does your child. After all, your child is fully dependent upon you for all care, not just diabetes treatments. Even as your child begins walking and talking, diabetes will be a very small part of their world. Children live in the moment. The blood glucose test or injection that was...

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Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia (or “low blood sugar”) occurs when blood glucose levels fall below 4 mmol/L. At first, symptoms may be benign—irritability, mild nausea—but if the situation is not addressed, hypoglycemia can lead to fainting or even coma. Signs Symptoms caused by adrenaline secretion (adrenergic or neurogenic) These symptoms are usually the first to appear and should be considered "alarm bells": Trembling ...

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Young women eating a donut

Put A Stop To Cravings!

People living with diabetes often think they have to ban all unhealthy foods. Yet, dealing with your cravings, rather than trying to eliminate them, is the best way to prevent possibly damaging binges. Defuse high-calorie bombs. Bored? Stressed? Cravings often arise in response to a psychological need. Outsmart them: dive into a novel, or go for a walk or a run. Self-indulgence or true hunger? All you had for lunch was a green salad? It’s no surprise that your stomach is growling! Add some fibre and protein to...

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