Saturday, May 28, 2011

Free Diabetes Meter - What Are the Benefits?

Diabetes, cancer and heart disease are representative of the chronic diseases that are considered to be leading causes of disability and death according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Among adults, diabetes is responsible for the majority of cases of kidney failure, blindness and non-traumatic amputations of the lower extremities. Almost 24 million people in the US have been diagnosed with diabetes and the number of new cases is increasing each year. Furthermore, many cases remain undiagnosed, and these numbers are estimated to be between six to eight million. The disease can be controlled, so a free diabetes meter is just the thing most folks need.

Having diabetes means your blood sugar or blood glucose is too high. A diabetes meter only needs a drop of blood to test the level of glucose in your bloodstream at any given moment. Blood sugar is typically measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), but these units are rarely referred to when discussing the target range. Before meals or first thing in the morning before breakfast, the target range is 70 to 130 for most people. An hour or two after eating a meal, the target level should be lower than 180. A free diabetes meter or glucometer can be used at home to test your blood sugar levels at regular intervals.

There are many sources for a free diabetes meter. A number of online companies offer free meters and test supplies to those who qualify by filling out a short survey. There are also advertisements in popular magazines, especially health and fitness magazines, that explain how to get your free glucose meter. You can also find brochures in the doctor's office, drug store and other health facilities. You can also receive free cookbooks, meal planners and recipes for diabetics. All this can help you maintain acceptable blood sugar levels in order to ward off the serious and devastating complications of the disease.

Your free diabetes meter can provide quick and accurate results regarding your blood glucose levels. If the level is too high, that can alert you to cut back on white bread or pasta during your next meal. Although it is a little more complicated than that, it still gives you an idea on how to use the diabetes meter in conjunction with meal planning. After each test, record your results in a log book. Over time you will see trends that will help you better manage diabetes.

Chad Nellis is a health and wellness professional in San Diego where he helps Diabetics with Free Diabetes Meter and Yoga at Yoga For Athletes. Chad's goal is to help people find fulfillment in all aspects of their lives by utilizing events, tools, and strategies that make the process of health and personal growth exciting & entertaining

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chad_Nellis

Chad Nellis - EzineArticles Expert Author

View the original article here

No comments:

Post a Comment