I am a diabetic but my home blood glucose measurements are always different from the ones done in the doctor’s office. Why?

The accuracy of blood glucose meters improves when they are used appropriately. So patient education on correct use and evaluating the results is important. Some of the most frequent errors at home in when using blood glucose machines include a soiled or contaminated meter, use of expired test strips, too little sample size and the failure to calibrate the machine prior to use. 

There are many glucose meters available and new models are constantly being released. The majority of newer machines are all calibrated with plasma glucose and thus the values obtained at home can be compared to the laboratory values.  Like all electronic devices, glucose machines are mainly distinguished based on their features. These features include the blood sample site, duration of test time, memory capability, ability to download data, alternate site testing and various software. Other machines can also help record your medications, doses, calorie intake and how much exercise you perform. Some of the latest devices even have voice prompts for the visually handicapped.

I am a type 2 diabetic. Can you tell me how accurate are devices for home glucose monitoring?

Monitoring of blood glucose at home is now widely practiced and accepted by most patients. Everyone agrees that home monitoring of glucose can help make management of diabetes a lot easier. However, there are a variety of home monitoring devices out on the market and choosing the right one is an overwhelming task for the average consumer.

Unlike laboratory measurement of blood glucose, the home devices have a wide range of accuracy. In fact, not all home glucose monitoring machines are the same when it comes to accuracy. The FDA calls for all blood glucose monitors to produce results within 20% of a reference measurement and there is hope that the newer generation of machines will result in only a 10% difference. The American Diabetes Association has gone one step further and demanded that all meters should produce readings within 5% of reference level. All the meters currently on the market do comply by FDA standard but they are not as accurate as the laboratory machine.  If you live in North America, do not buy machines from abroad as the quality of devices cannot be guaranteed

Can you tell me what supplements I can take to control my blood sugars?

Unfortunately, outside of insulin and the oral hypoglycemic drugs, there is nothing that can help lower your blood sugars. The majority of health supplements marketed for blood sugar control are junk, untested and do not serve any real medical benefit. Moreover, these supplements contain contaminants, many are even fake products and all of them are expensive.

If you have high sugars, the one thing you can is to exercise. There is a lot of evidence that regular exercise can help you lower your blood sugar, reduce your weight and even lower your cholesterol. It really does not matter what exercise you do, as long as you do something that is physical. There is no easy way out. Popping supplements has become an easy solution for everyone wanting to cure their medical problems. The problem with the health supplement market is that it is unregulated with no quality control. So if you want to leave a hassle free life with diabetes, start walking today. Walking is free, allows you to enjoy nature and does work-if you remain motivated.

I am a diabetic and my doctor says I should not use an electrical blanket. Why?

Well, this is not an absolute contraindication. 


Diabetics can use an electric blanket but it should be with care and the temperature should not be very high. The reason for this is that diabetics do lose their ability to sense pain. If there is excessive heat the diabetic may not be able to sense the pain and this can lead to a burn. 


Since diabetics have diminished blood supply to their legs, this small burn can quickly get out of control and easily lead to a full blown infection or an amputation. Diabetics should use caution with all electrical appliances.

Do I really need to buy diabetic shoes?

Feet are the most neglected part of our body both when it comes to health and cosmesis.


Diabetic individuals are always at a risk for developing life threatening infections even after minor trauma. Besides having poor circulation in the feet, diabetics also have loss of nerves and are unable to sense trauma. These individuals should wear corrective shoes to protect their feet. Corrective shoes are available that can stabilize and support all types of foot deformities. In addition the shoes are designed such that they reduce shock and pressure on the joints.


Today, diabetic individuals with foot problems can buy supportive shoe wear in all styles and designs. Besides elegance, one should buy shoes that are comfortable and protective.


Unfortunately the shoe industry has gotten together with certain health care professionals and is making a killing from selling expensive footwear to all diabetics. Some of the shoes cost more than $700. The statement that all diabetics need specially fitted shoes is a bunch of crap- this is only to make the health professionals get much richer at your expense.


So if you do not have money, buy a pair of slightly large sturdy shoes and pack it with cotton. Always maintain good hygiene, do not wear sandals and never let a podiatrist touch your feet without first getting an approval from your doctor. 

How often should I measure my blood sugars?

The testing for blood sugar levels is more rigorous just after the diagnosis of diabetes. Once the diagnosis of diabetes has been established, the measurement of blood sugars does depend on the type of diabetes and treatment.


Individuals who have type 1 diabetes need to measure blood sugar levels anywhere from 3-6 times a day, at least before and after each meal.
Individuals with diabetes who exercise also need to monitor their sugars before and after exercise and just before going to sleep.


Individuals with type 1 diabetes who are ill or have a change in their routine (like traveling), stress or have been diagnosed with other medical disorder may need more frequent monitoring of blood sugar levels.


Individuals with Type 2 diabetes generally require less frequent glucose monitoring. Most of these individuals need to monitor blood glucose 1-2 time’s day if they are on any type of diabetic medications. Individual who are managing their type 2 diabetes with diet and exercise alone need to monitor their sugars less often. 

My father has diabetes, is there a chance I will get diabetes?

Diabetes does have a genetic link. If one or more members of your family have diabetes, then your chances of developing diabetes are high. 

Studies indicate that diabetes tends to occur in 30% of people who already have family members with diabetes. 

In the meantime, you should continue to get your blood sugars tested regularly, change your diet and watch your weight. The lower the weight, the less likely you will develop diabetes.