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Diabetic Care, Food as Medicine, Products

Harnessing the Power of Food as Medicine: Transforming Diabetes, Sleep Apnea, and Overall Health

eastern-medtech / August 27, 2024

Anyone trying to manage a chronic illness or who is at all concerned with wellness will have encountered the concept of “food as medicine.” The idea is simple yet profound, which might explain the nod of approval it has received from pop culture and medical practitioners alike. Here’s the gist: the foods we eat have the power to prevent, manage, and even reverse chronic health conditions. This is an impactful claim for people dealing with sleep apnea, and other related health issues. Essentially, it suggests that intentional dietary choices can be transformative. Let’s consider how harnessing the power of food as medicine can improve your health and well-being, particularly in managing diabetes, sleep apnea, and overall health. The finer points of “food as medicine.” The notion of food as medicine is rooted in the belief that a nutritious diet can play a pivotal role in maintaining health and preventing disease. Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, supposedly said, “Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.” Regardless of who said that, if anyone in particular, this ancient wisdom is increasingly supported by modern science, which shows that dietary habits are closely linked to the risk of developing chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea. By choosing foods that nourish the body, reduce inflammation, and stabilize blood sugar levels, you can support your body’s natural healing processes and improve your overall quality of life. Can a healthy diet transform diabetes? Diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes, is closely linked to dietary habits. Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for individuals with diabetes, and food plays a central role in achieving this balance. So, how you can harness the power of food to manage (or better yet!) prevent diabetes? Prioritize low glycemic index (GI) foods Foods with a low glycemic index release glucose slowly into the bloodstream, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels. Incorporating low-GI foods into your diet can reduce the risk of blood sugar spikes and improve insulin sensitivity. Whenever possible, integrate the following ingredients into your diet: Up your fiber intake Fiber is a crucial nutrient for blood sugar management for its ability to slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which helps keep blood sugar levels stable. High-fiber foods include: Aim to include a variety of fiber-rich foods in your diet to support blood sugar control and overall health. Help yourself to healthy fats Healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish, can improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate blood sugar levels. These fats also provide satiety, reducing the likelihood of overeating and weight gain, which are risk factors for diabetes. Resist refined carbohydrates and skip sugary foods Refined carbohydrates and sugary foods cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, making them a poor choice for individuals with diabetes. Instead, opt for whole, unprocessed foods that provide sustained energy and essential nutrients. Pick plants first A plant-based diet, rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes, has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Even if you don’t adopt a fully plant-based diet, increasing your intake of plant foods can have significant health benefits. Soothing sleep apnea symptoms with smart diet choices Sleep apnea, a condition characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, is closely linked to obesity and inflammation—both of which can be influenced by diet. Making strategic dietary changes can help manage and potentially reduce the severity of sleep apnea: Focus on weight managementWeight loss is one of the most effective strategies for reducing the severity of sleep apnea. A diet that supports healthy weight loss, rich in whole, unprocessed foods, can reduce the fatty deposits around the neck and improve breathing during sleep. Avoid consumption of inflammatory foodsInflammation can worsen sleep apnea symptoms by contributing to airway obstruction. Reducing or eliminating inflammatory foods—such as processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats—can help alleviate symptoms. Swap out these sleep apnea culprits for anti-inflammatory foods, such as: Keep in careful control of alcohol and caffeine consumption Alcohol and caffeine can disrupt sleep and worsen sleep apnea symptoms. Alcohol relaxes the muscles of the throat, making airway obstruction more likely, while caffeine can interfere with sleep quality. Limiting or avoiding these substances, especially before bedtime, can help improve sleep quality and reduce apnea episodes. Small and balanced: the keys to healthy mealsLarge, heavy meals, especially close to bedtime, can exacerbate sleep apnea symptoms. Opt for smaller, balanced meals throughout the day, and try to finish eating at least two to three hours before going to bed. Finding fortitude by embracing food as medicine Beyond managing specific conditions like diabetes and sleep apnea, the principles of food as medicine can lead to enhanced overall health. The following five strategies are ideal wellness habits that anyone can embrace in pursuit of optimal health and wellness. Model your diet after the MediterraneanThe Mediterranean diet is consistently ranked as one of the healthiest diets in the world for its emphasis on whole, nutrient-dense foods, including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins (particularly fish), and healthy fats like olive oil. This diet is associated with documented health and longevity benefits, including a reduced risk of chronic diseases, improved heart health, and better cognitive function. Stay hydratedProper hydration is essential for overall health. Water helps regulate body temperature, supports digestion, and maintains energy levels. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day, and more if you’re physically active or live in a hot climate. Reach for the rainbow Anyone old enough to remember Skittles candy commercials will undoubtedly recall the motto, “Taste the rainbow.” This is not the same rainbow. Eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables ensures that you get a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which support immune function, reduce inflammation, and protect against chronic diseases. Make eating a mindful practice What does mindful eating mean? It’s simple, but does take practice: pay attention to hunger and fullness cues,

Diabetic Care, Products

Debunking the Sugar Myth: Understanding the Real Causes of Diabetes

eastern-medtech / August 27, 2024

No doubt you’ve heard this before: diabetes is caused by sugar. Period. Turns out, it’s not that simple. Sure, sugar consumption plays a role in overall health; however, the real causes of diabetes are far more complex. Join us as we debunk the sugar myth and provide a clearer understanding of what actually causes diabetes. Tracing the roots of the sugar myth The idea that sugar directly causes diabetes likely stems from the fact that diabetes is characterized by high blood sugar levels. It’s easy to draw the conclusion that eating sugar leads to high blood sugar, which then leads to diabetes. However, this oversimplification overlooks the many factors involved in the development of the disease. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Each has different causes and risk factors, and neither is solely caused by sugar consumption. Type 1 diabetes = an autoimmune condition Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels by allowing glucose to enter cells and be used for energy. Without insulin, blood sugar levels rise dangerously high. The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is not fully understood, but it’s believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Researchers have identified certain genes that increase the risk of developing type 1 diabetes, but not everyone with these genes will develop the condition. Environmental triggers, such as viral infections, may also play a role in the onset of the disease. Importantly, type 1 diabetes is not caused by sugar consumption. It is a condition that typically develops in childhood or adolescence, which is why you’ll sometimes hear it referred to as “juvenile diabetes,” though it can also occur in adults. While managing blood sugar levels is crucial for individuals with type 1 diabetes, the disease itself is not caused by eating too much sugar. Type 2 Diabetes: rooted in insulin resistance Type 2 diabetes is the more common form of the disease, accounting for about 90-95% of all diabetes cases. Additionally, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports an alarming number of cases concerning undiagnosed or pre-diabetes: “8.7 million adults aged 18 years or older who met laboratory criteria for diabetes were not aware of or did not report having diabetes. This number represents 3.4% of all U.S. adults and 22.8% of all U.S. adults with diabetes.” Unlike type 1 diabetes, type 2 is primarily associated with insulin resistance—a condition in which the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin. As a result, the pancreas produces more insulin to compensate, but over time, it can’t keep up, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. While type 2 diabetes is more closely linked to lifestyle factors, it is still not caused solely by sugar consumption. Several key factors contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes: The real deal between sugar and diabetes This is sort of like the old chicken and egg adage. Which came first? While sugar itself doesn’t directly cause diabetes, excessive sugar consumption can contribute to other risk factors, such as obesity, which in turn increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Of course, all calories, whether from sugar, fat, or protein, can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. Therefore, it’s not just sugar that poses a risk, but an overall diet that is high in calories and low in nutrients. Preventing and managing diabetes: embracing a holistic approach Absent a single solution or miracle cure, the name of the game when it comes to preventing and treating either type of diabetes is a proactive, multi-faceted combination, featuring the following wellness strategies: Rejecting the myth that sugar alone causes diabetes creates space necessary to explore the real causes of diabetes—genetics, insulin resistance, obesity, and lifestyle factors. This knowledge is what makes it possible for us to provide our clients with the diabetic care that can actually make a difference in their daily lives. “Eastern MedTech is an Excellent company with caring leadership. Customer service was very helpful, thorough, and empathetic. This company cares about patients.” – E. Friedlander Contact us when you’re ready to simplify your diabetes management with our cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions.

Diabetic Care, Products

The Connection Between Blood Sugar Control and Diabetic Retinopathy: Key Dietary Strategies for Prevention

eastern-medtech / August 27, 2024

As chronic conditions go, most of us are familiar with diabetes, along with the symptoms and risk associated with this particular diagnosis. After all, in this country, diabetes is very common. Data from 2021 shows that 38.4 million people of all ages or 11.6% of the entire U.S. population had diabetes. Moreover, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports even more concerning statistics, regarding incidents of undiagnosed or pre-diabetes: “8.7 million adults aged 18 years or older who met laboratory criteria for diabetes were not aware of or did not report having diabetes. This number represents 3.4% of all U.S. adults and 22.8% of all U.S. adults with diabetes.” Discussions around the impact of diabetes often focus on blood sugar levels and the risk of complications such as heart disease and nerve damage, but what about the profound connection between blood sugar control and eye health, particularly the risk of diabetic retinopathy. As a team, we’re committed to educating our clients on these critical connections and how to prevent diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of blindness among individuals with diabetes. Taking a hard look at diabetic retinopathy Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time, these damaged blood vessels can leak fluid or bleed, leading to swelling, scar tissue formation, and eventually, vision impairment or blindness if left untreated. There are two main stages of diabetic retinopathy: The Role of Blood Sugar Control in Preventing Diabetic Retinopathy Bottom line: maintaining tight control over blood sugar levels is one of the most effective ways to prevent or slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy. Consistently high blood sugar levels cause damage to the delicate blood vessels in the retina, leading to the development and worsening of this condition. By keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range, individuals with diabetes can significantly reduce their risk of diabetic retinopathy and other complications. Key Dietary Strategies for Preventing Diabetic Retinopathy You already know that diet plays a crucial role in managing blood sugar levels and preventing diabetic complications, including retinopathy. Aim to check the boxes on most, if not all, of the following nutrition strategies to help you maintain optimal blood sugar and, ultimately, protect your vision: Focus on Low Glycemic Index (GI) FoodsThe glycemic index (GI) measures how quickly foods raise blood sugar levels after consumption. Foods with a low GI are digested and absorbed more slowly, leading to a gradual rise in blood sugar levels. Incorporating low-GI foods into your diet can help stabilize blood sugar and reduce the risk of diabetic retinopathy. Some examples of low-GI foods include: Prioritize Fiber-Rich FoodsFiber plays a critical role in blood sugar management by slowing the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. A diet rich in fiber can help improve blood sugar control and reduce the risk of diabetic retinopathy. Aim to include a variety of fiber-rich foods in your daily meals, such as: Incorporate Healthy FatsHealthy fats can help improve insulin sensitivity and support overall blood sugar control. Opt for sources of unsaturated fats, such as: These foods not only help regulate blood sugar levels but also provide essential nutrients that support eye health. Monitor Carbohydrate IntakeCarbohydrates have the most significant impact on blood sugar levels, so it’s important to monitor your intake and choose wisely. Focus on complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy and are less likely to cause spikes in blood sugar levels because they increase blood sugar more slowly, thanks to their fiber content. Ideal choices include: Additionally, try to balance your carbohydrate intake with protein and healthy fats to further stabilize blood sugar levels. Limit Processed and Sugary FoodsProcessed foods and those high in added sugars can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of diabetic retinopathy. Limit or avoid foods such as: Instead, choose whole, nutrient-dense foods that provide steady energy and support overall health. This can be tricky as ultra-processed foods account for nearly 60% of an average American’s energy intake. This is particularly problematic for people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes as this same study shows that ultra-processed foods increase a diabetic’s risk of heart disease by more than double. Stay HydratedProper hydration is essential for blood sugar management. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help prevent dehydration, which can cause blood sugar levels to rise. Aim for at least 6.5 cups per day for women and 8.5 glasses per day for men. Consider increasing your intake if you’re physically active or live in a hot climate. Incorporate Antioxidant-Rich FoodsAntioxidants, associated with a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes, help protect the eyes of those already diagnosed from oxidative stress, a key factor in the development of diabetic retinopathy. Incorporating foods rich in antioxidants can help safeguard your vision from the cell aging and death associated with oxidation. Some examples include: These foods provide essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, which support eye health and overall well-being. Magnifying the importance of diabetic care to prevent diabetic retinopathy Although we’ve clearly made the case that diabetic retinopathy is a serious and potentially sight-threatening complication of diabetes, it’s just as important to recognize that it’s not inevitable. By taking proactive steps to manage your blood sugar levels through a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle choices, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing this condition and protect your vision. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and treatment of diabetic retinopathy. And don’t miss our recent blog post, In celebration of Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) and improved health outcomes which explains how integral these products can be to effective blood sugar control and management. At Eastern MedTech, we are proud to present our comprehensive inventory of diabetic care products designed to simplify diabetes management. “Great people, easy to work with and are capable of providing solutions other DME’s were unable to solve. Highly recommended!”

A photo of a diabetic pregnant woman and her doctor

Diabetic Care, Maternity Care, Products

Understanding Gestational Diabetes: What Every Expectant Mother Should Know

eastern-medtech / August 27, 2024

While no two pregnancies are alike, it’s fair to say that pregnancy in general is experienced with excitement, anticipation, and the potential for complications. Among them, gestational diabetes can be one of the most surprising and confusing conditions expectant mothers may face. Just hearing “diabetes” can be daunting, which is why understanding gestational diabetes, its risks, and how to manage it can help pregnant women take control of their health in support of a healthy pregnancy. Our team has the expertise and proven products to empower your pregnancy. We hope you’ll consider us your maternity care partner, from pregnancy to postpartum. In that spirit, we invite you to explore our guide on gestational diabetes… What is gestational diabetes? Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy, usually between the 24th and 28th weeks. Unlike other forms of diabetes, it typically resolves after childbirth. However, its temporary nature doesn’t mean it should be taken lightly. Gestational diabetes occurs when your body isn’t able to produce enough insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels, to meet the increased needs during pregnancy. This leads to higher-than-normal blood sugar levels, which can affect both you and your baby. As a pregnant mother, you’re likely already exhausted and possibly feeling a bit fraught when it comes to potential risks and complications; that’s why we want you to understand your risks for developing gestational diabetes. Are you at risk for developing gestational diabetes? The short answer here is “yes,” because any pregnant woman can develop gestational diabetes; however, certain factors may increase your risk, such as the following: What are the most common symptoms of gestational diabetes? Unfortunately, gestational diabetes often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms, making it essential to undergo regular prenatal screenings. Women who do experience symptoms, typically report any or all of the following: Keep these symptoms in mind and contact your provider if you experience any of them. How will gestational diabetes impact me and my baby? Fortunately, especially if you’re keeping up with your routine prenatal appointments, gestational diabetes can usually be managed effectively. Even so, it’s important to understand the potential risks if left untreated for both baby and mother: What does gestational diabetes management look like? The good news is that gestational diabetes can be managed for a healthy pregnancy by combining lifestyle changes, careful and consistent monitoring, and medical support. Regarding lifestyle changes, the goal here is to embrace a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Controlling carbohydrate intake is crucial to maintaining stable blood sugar levels. If you need help creating this kind of balanced diet, you might enlist the expertise of a registered dietitian who can help create a meal plan tailored to managing your gestational diabetes. In addition, you want to get those steps in! Routine physical activity helps regulate blood sugar levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week, but opt for safe and low-impact options like walking, swimming, stationary bike riding or prenatal yoga. Those are the management tips that YOU can control. The following require supervision and management by your healthcare practitioner: Gestational diabetes: gone after delivery? Yes. While gestational diabetes usually resolves after childbirth, it’s important to continue monitoring your health. Women who have had gestational diabetes are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle postpartum, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help reduce this risk. Your healthcare provider may recommend a glucose test 6-12 weeks after delivery to ensure your blood sugar levels have returned to normal. Regular check-ups and screenings are essential to catch any potential issues early. Remember, you are not alone—many women successfully manage gestational diabetes and go on to have healthy pregnancies and babies. If you have concerns about gestational diabetes or want more information on managing the condition, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. In the meantime, we hope you’ll explore our maternity care products, specifically our top-quality breast pumps, milk storage bags, and comprehensive accessories from a variety of industry-favorite brands. “So grateful that my OB referred me to Eastern Maternity for my breast pump. This company has been totally on top of everything. The staff member I have worked with throughout the process is Alexa, and she has been amazing. Alexa is knowledgeable and attentive. She is polite, professional, and easy to talk to. She is quick to answer my phone calls and all of my questions. She has been so helpful submitting my equipment/ supplies through insurance – even when I didn’t think certain items would be covered. It has been such a pleasure to work with you Alexa! Thanks for everything!” – C. Gooding We are standing by to support your healthy pregnancy and postpartum experience. Contact us today to get started!

Two women holding different foods. One holding an apple, the other holding a donut.

Diabetic Care, Food as Medicine, Products, Sleep Care

Get on board with good nutrition to manage diabetes and sleep apnea

eastern-medtech / August 1, 2024

No matter how busy you might be – and we’re all busy in this on-demand, digitized world – it’s important to prioritize good nutrition however possible. This is particularly true for anyone trying to manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and sleep apnea. Connecting the dots between nutrition, diabetes, and sleep apnea For individuals with diabetes, maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial, which depends on good nutrition. Consuming a balanced diet helps manage blood glucose levels, reduce the risk of complications, and improve overall health. In order to do that, make it a habit to check the following boxes: Given that obesity is a significant risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea, those who have been diagnosed are well-advised to embrace the following nutrition tips for sleep apnea management: The dynamic duo: good nutrition and innovative technology While good nutrition is a cornerstone of managing chronic conditions like diabetes and sleep apnea, you also need access to the right support and innovative products. At Eastern MedTech, we offer an impressive inventory of sleep and respiratory products designed to enhance the lives of those living with conditions like sleep apnea. Additionally, we provide solutions in support of diabetic care that make a daily difference for anyone diagnosed with diabetes. Contact us to learn more!

A man sleeping with a heart monitor on his finger

Products, Sleep Care

Pulse point: keeping pace with sleep apnea and heart health

eastern-medtech / August 1, 2024

You already know that sleep is a fundamental aspect of overall health and well-being, which can feel like a frustrating fact if you have a condition that challenges your healthy sleep pattern. For instance, sleep apnea, a common sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, can have far-reaching impacts on cardiac health. Fortunately, as the saying goes, “Knowledge is power.” By recognizing the connection between sound sleep and heart health, we’re empowered to manage conditions like sleep apnea and improve health. Heart health hinges on solid sleep Why is sleep essential for maintaining heart health? Well, during sleep, the body undergoes various restorative processes, including the regulation of blood pressure and heart rate. Sleep apnea, which causes frequent pauses in breathing and subsequent drops in oxygen levels, can lead to increased blood pressure and strain on the cardiovascular system. Ultimately, this chronic stress can contribute to the development of hypertension, heart disease, and even heart failure. The good news is that by ensuring quality sleep, you can help protect the heart and reduce your risk of cardiovascular conditions. The association between Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) and sleep apnea If you’ve been diagnosed with Atrial fibrillation (AFib), you suffer from an irregular and often rapid heart rate that, left untreated, can lead to blood clots, stroke, and heart failure. The repeated interruptions in breathing and oxygen levels associated with sleep apnea can trigger abnormal heart rhythms and increase the risk of developing AFib. That’s why the effective management of sleep apnea through treatments like Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy can help reduce the incidence and severity of AFib. Taking the time to embrace sleep by addressing sleep apnea through appropriate treatments can lead to significant improvements in your overall health and well-being. We’re standing by to support you with expertise and innovative solutions. Contact us today!

A photo of a sleep apnea mask and diabetic test

Products, Sleep Care

Don’t sleep on this: identifying the correlation between sleep apnea and diabetes

eastern-medtech / August 1, 2024

In addition to providing our clients with cutting-edge solutions and innovative tools, our team at Eastern MedTech believes in education. That’s why we focus so many of our blog posts on health information that, when coupled with our products, helps enhance lives. This week, we’re taking a look at sleep apnea and diabetes, both of which can significantly impact a person’s life. While they may seem unrelated at first glance, research reveals a significant correlation between the two. We believe that understanding this connection can help manage both conditions more effectively. So, what exactly is the correlation between sleep apnea and diabetes? Sleep apnea 101 Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, known as apneas, can last for several seconds and occur multiple times throughout the night. The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where the airway becomes partially or fully blocked during sleep. Symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, daytime fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. The definition of diabetes Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar (glucose). The two main types are Type 1 diabetes, where the body fails to produce insulin, and Type 2 diabetes, where the body either resists the effects of insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin to maintain normal glucose levels. Managing diabetes requires careful monitoring of blood sugar levels, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sometimes medication or insulin therapy. The symbiotic relationship between sleep apnea and diabetes Rather than take you through all the research that evidences the relationship between sleep apnea and diabetes, particularly Type 2 diabetes, the following represents the key points you should know: Tips to help manage sleep apnea and diabetes together Not surprisingly, by managing one condition, you can positively impact the other. The following tips are a great place to start: Understanding the correlation between sleep apnea and diabetes is the first step to better manage both conditions effectively. Accessing the right products and support is second and we have them ready for you. To learn more, we invite you to contact our team at 857-400-0044.

Diabetic Care, Products

In celebration of Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) and improved health outcomes

eastern-medtech / August 1, 2024

As you already know, managing diabetes effectively can be challenging, but advancements in technology are making it easier for individuals to keep their blood sugar levels in check. One such innovation is the Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM). CGMs offer several benefits over traditional methods of glucose monitoring, such as fingersticks. We cannot say enough about how valuable a CGM is, especially for its ability to support better health outcomes. Let’s take you through some of the key CGM benefits our clients have experienced. Finally, an end to painful fingersticks. One of the most significant advantages of using a CGM is the reduction in the need for fingerstick tests. Traditional glucose monitoring methods require frequent finger pricks to measure blood sugar levels, which can be painful and inconvenient. CGMs, such as the Abbott FreeStyle Libre 2 and 3 and Dexcom G7, use a small sensor inserted under the skin to continuously measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid. This means fewer finger pricks and less discomfort for users, making glucose monitoring a less daunting task. Imagine how much easier this makes glucose monitoring for children and their parents; the Abbott FreeStyle Libre 2 and 3 systems are approved for children aged 4 years and older. Accurate and accessible data for daily nutrition choices CGMs provide real-time data on glucose levels, allowing users to see how their blood sugar fluctuates throughout the day. This continuous stream of information helps individuals make more informed decisions about their diet and lifestyle. By understanding how different foods and activities affect their glucose levels, which is different for everyone, users can tailor their nutrition choices to maintain better control over their blood sugar. This proactive approach to diabetes management can lead to more stable glucose levels and reduce the risk of complications. Help your healthcare providers by sharing historical data Another significant advantage of CGMs is the ability to store and share historical data with healthcare providers. Devices like the Abbott FreeStyle Libre and Dexcom G7 collect detailed information over time, creating a comprehensive picture of a person’s glucose patterns. This data can be shared with doctors and diabetes specialists, who can use it to make more accurate and personalized treatment recommendations. By providing healthcare providers with a wealth of information, CGMs enable a collaborative approach to diabetes management, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to the individual’s needs. Consider what International Diabetes Center (IDC) Medical Director Amy Criego, MD said about sharing CGM data with healthcare providers, “CGM data provides a wealth of information. But without easy access, clinicians can’t fully leverage this information for their discussion with patients and clinical recommendations. We demonstrated that there’s an effective way for clinicians to both view and track this data over time in the EHR, which we expect will improve how they’re able to support their patients.” Does this really amount to better health outcomes? Absolutely. The benefits of using a CGM—less painful monitoring, better data for nutrition choices, and the ability to share historical data with healthcare providers—all contribute to more effective diabetes management. With continuous glucose monitoring, individuals can maintain tighter control over their blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of both short-term and long-term complications associated with diabetes. Studies have shown that CGMs can lead to improved glycemic control, which is crucial for preventing issues such as neuropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular diseases. Richard Bergenstal, MD, Executive Director of the IDC attests to the correlation between CGMs and improved health outcomes, “Integrating CGM data into the EHR is a step in the direction of more efficient and effective diabetes management.” Ready to learn more about CGMs? Contact our team at 857-400-0044. We are dedicated to supporting your diabetic needs in support of your best life.

Diabetic Care, Products

Continuous Glucose Monitors: Diabetic Gamechangers or Just Another Gadget?

eastern-medtech / July 16, 2024

Continuous Glucose Monitors:Diabetic Gamechangers or Just Another Gadget? Curious about whether you should wear a continuous glucose monitor (CGM)? In our experience, CGMs are a must-have for anyone who manages diabetes. Continuous Glucose Monitors can be worn while sleeping, showering, swimming, exercising—basically they can stand up to anything you can do. How Do CGM’s Work? Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) like the Dexcom 7 and Abbott Freestyle Libre are devices used primarily by people with diabetes to monitor their blood glucose levels in real-time throughout the day and night. Here’s how they typically work: Sensor Insertion: A small sensor, usually about the size of a small coin, is inserted painlessly under the skin, typically on the abdomen or arm. The sensor measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid (fluid between cells), rather than directly measuring blood glucose levels. The sensor is connected to a transmitter which sends the glucose readings wirelessly to a receiver or a smartphone app. Patients usually replace sensors two to three times per month. Glucose Measurement: The sensor continuously measures the glucose levels in the interstitial fluid. This measurement happens at regular intervals, usually every few minutes, depending on the specific CGM model. Data Display and Analysis: Glucose readings are collected and displayed graphically, showing trends and patterns in glucose levels over time. CGMs can also provide alarms or alerts when glucose levels are too high (hyperglycemia) or too low (hypoglycemia), helping the user to take action promptly. User Interaction: Users can interact with the CGM system to input information such as meals, exercise, and insulin doses. This helps to provide a more comprehensive picture of how these factors affect blood glucose levels throughout the day. Will Insurance Cover CGM’s? Yes, Medicare and many other health insurance plans pay for Continuous Glucose Monitors for diabetics. Coverage details, however, such as co-pays, deductibles, and eligibility criteria can vary. CGM’s Put You Back in Control What we find most exciting about CGM’s is how it empowers diabetic patients to see and feel for themselves how their own bodies respond to what they eat and drink, how well they sleep, and when they exercise. Because CGM’s provide real-time data, patients are able to see how the banana they eat with breakfast one morning differs from the berries they eat another morning. They can see the effects of the fish fry versus the baked fish for dinner. We are all different and our bodies react differently to different foods, at different times, and in different situations. CGM’s allow patients to better understand their own bodies to help them to make choices that keep their blood sugar levels in control. Being able to share the data with a patient’s physicians allows for more collaboration and helps physicians to better manage their patients’ care. We have been delighted to see so many of our patients improve their health outcomes and quality of life by using CGM’s. Can We Help? Eastern MedTech provides CGM’s to Medicare patients and also accepts many other major insurance carriers. If you’d like to learn more, call us at 857-400-0044 and we will be happy to assist with all your diabetic needs.

Products

Harnessing the Power of Food as Medicine: Transforming Diabetes, Sleep Apnea, and Overall Health

Debunking the Sugar Myth: Understanding the Real Causes of Diabetes

The Connection Between Blood Sugar Control and Diabetic Retinopathy: Key Dietary Strategies for Prevention

Understanding Gestational Diabetes: What Every Expectant Mother Should Know

Get on board with good nutrition to manage diabetes and sleep apnea

Pulse point: keeping pace with sleep apnea and heart health

Don’t sleep on this: identifying the correlation between sleep apnea and diabetes

In celebration of Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) and improved health outcomes

Continuous Glucose Monitors: Diabetic Gamechangers or Just Another Gadget?

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