Monitoring blood glucose levels is an essential part of living with diabetes. It becomes progressively easier over time for adults to prick their fingers to obtain a sample of blood. Parents must perform the testing for very small children. However, a day will come when parents will have to teach their child how to use test strips and glucose meters on their own.

How to Check

Even though they may have seen their parents perform the testing procedure many times, doing it on their own is an entirely different matter. Parents will need to walk a child through the process and it may take many repetitions before they feel confident and do it correctly. That’s to be expected and parents shouldn’t get frustrated with them.

Why to Check

Parents need to have an honest conversation with the child. Children need to know that testing is the way they can help keep themselves safe. Explain what normal readings are, along with what constitutes a high or low reading and what to do. The readings tell them whether they need to eat something, take insulin and if so, how much. If the child is involved in sports and other activities, they need to know that testing allows them to monitor their glucose levels so they can participate.

When to Check

Teach the child that they’ll need to check before breakfast, lunch and dinner and before bed. Teens will need to know they should never get behind the wheel of a car unless they’ve tested their glucose levels first. It’s important for them to know that sometimes they’ll need to check more often – before, during and after exercise. Sometimes glucose levels can drop during the night and there may be times when they need to wake up and check, especially if their glucose levels are low at bedtime.

Additional Checking

When people are ill, it can affect their glucose levels and some medications also affect glucose levels. Be sure the child knows that blood glucose levels can fluctuate if they’re sick and it’s a good idea to test more often if they’re ill. Parents shouldn’t panic about teaching a child to test their own blood – they’ll always be there to provide advice and assistance.

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If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

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Test strips are an essential tool for checking blood glucose levels to manage diabetes. The test strips are an ongoing need that’s also expensive. The cost varies widely, depending upon the brand, number of strips used and how often an individual has to test. Further complicating the equation is that test strips aren’t interchangeable between different brands of meters.

There are store brands, known as generic strips, that cost as little as $20 per 100 (20 cents per strip), while name brands can cost up to $188 per 100 ($1.88 per strip). That’s a low of 80 cents per day if a person tests 4 times per day to a high of $7.52. All test strips have to meet minimum accuracy requirements.

The test strip industry is a study in contradictions. Test strip manufacturers insist the cost is a direct result of research and materials to create the tiny strips. Many people say that the cost of the strips increases if their insurance is paying for them. The plastic test strips have a thin gold coating and one end has a coating of enzymes. When blood enters the test strip, it reacts to the enzyme and creates an electrical impulse that’s read by the glucose meter.

Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are held up as the gold standard of glucose monitors and are only available by prescription. Some insurance companies pay a portion of the cost, some don’t, and some insurers limit it for use to people with Type 1 diabetes. It’s typically too expensive for most people, even with insurance, for the cost of the sensors each month that can range from $160 to $500 per month.

It’s no wonder that diabetics are turning to alternative sources to obtain the test strips they need. Resellers of diabetic test strips buy test them from people that don’t need them or have too many, and resell them at a discount to individuals that that are uninsured or underinsured. It’s one way for people with the disease to obtain the test strips needed to help them stay alive.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

People with diabetes often have difficulty choosing or preparing meals at home. It’s a balancing act to obtain required nutrition, while limiting carbohydrates. The solution may be a diabetic meal delivery service, but many individuals don’t even know the services exist.

Before signing up for one of the services, make sure the meals are created by a registered dietician. The meals should be low calorie, but low-calorie counts shouldn’t translate into potions so small that people find themselves ravenous 2 hours later.

Individuals should have the option of including healthy snacks and choose the meals they receive. Some services require that customers pay extra for the ability to make personal choices. There should also be options for individuals that are vegan, gluten intolerant, and those that must be mindful of their sodium intake. Ideally, meals should be packaged in microwave safe containers.

The plans can be pricy, ranging from $7 to $8 per meal and as high as $11 to $14 per meal. Some services charge a flat fee per day or week and others require customers to order a month’s worth of meals at a time. Shipping may or may not be included in the cost.

An additional consideration is if the meals come pre-cooked, if they have to be cooked at home, and how much preparation clients must perform. Some services simply provide the ingredients and recipes, but prep and cooking are left to the customer.

Diabetic meal services can be ideal for those that don’t like to cook, live busy lifestyles, or are having a lot of trouble maintaining appropriate blood glucose levels. Meals are designed to help people manage their glucose levels throughout the day, but not all plans enable customers to choose the meals they want. The plans can cost more than eating at home and before signing up for any plan, read all the fine print.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

There are dozens of myths about sugar and diabetes. One of the most prevalent, especially among those advocating for natural solutions, is that honey is better for diabetics and can be eaten without ill effects. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Honey is a form of sugar and the body doesn’t differentiate between different types of sugar. The body treats all sugars in the same way and honey is actually sweeter than granulated sugar. There’s no advantage to using honey over other types of sweeteners, but diabetics can eat it if they prefer. Honey should never be given to a child under the age of 12 months. There’s a risk of infant botulism.

The only difference in honey and sugar is that people may be able to use a lesser amount of honey than cane sugar in a recipe. Honey is slightly higher in calories and carbohydrates than regular sugar. Diabetics can use honey as a sweetener, but should do so in moderation.

For those that prefer honey, use pure, raw or organic honey. One tablespoon of honey contains 64 calories compared to 49 in a tablespoon of sugar. Both sugar and honey contain carbohydrates comprised of two types of sugar – glucose and fructose. Honey contains 40 percent fructose and 30 percent glucose, along with water, pollen and some minerals. Sugar contains 50 percent fructose and 50 percent glucose.

While honey elevates glucose levels as efficiently as other types of sugars, research has shown that it does have some benefits. Honey has natural anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. It’s one of the reasons that it’s used in cough syrups and in wound healing preparations.

The bottom line is that honey isn’t a wonder sweetener and is no better than traditional sugar. Both types of sweeteners will increase and even spike glucose levels. The body doesn’t care which sweetener is used. It metabolizes all sugars the same way.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

There’s a potential problem that could be lurking around the corner for people with diabetes. It’s called gastroparesis and makes it exceptionally difficult for individuals to control their blood glucose levels no matter how diligent they are about their diet.

Gastroparesis, also known as slow digestion, is more common in those with diabetes and the disease is the most commonly known cause of gastroparesis. It’s a condition is which the muscles in the wall of the stomach don’t push food out of the stomach and into the intestines in a timely manner.

It’s more common in individuals that have had poor blood glucose levels and have had diabetes for 10 years or more. Even when patients tell their physicians they’re experiencing slow digestion, many doctors are quick to dismiss it, often placing the blame on eating habits or the types of food being consumed.

People with slow digestion typically feel full after eating very little and are unable to finish a regular meal. They may also experience nausea, vomiting, bloating, heartburn, a lack of appetite, and/or abdominal pain. They typically feel full long after they’ve eaten and slow digestion.

Slow digestion makes it difficult to maintain normal blood glucose levels. It can also result in weight loss, malnutrition and dehydration. Many medications can contribute to slow digestion. Undigested food can harden into a solid mass, called a bezoar, that can be life-threatening if it prevents food from entering the small intestine. Gastroparesis affects quality of life.

Gastroparesis is diagnosed through any number of tests, the most common of which involves radioactive dye that a specialist will monitor as it passes through the digestive system. There’s also a breath test and the doctor may utilize a small camera to examine the upper digestive system.

There’s no cure for gastroparesis, but there are steps that can be taken to remediate the disorder. Try eating smaller portions more often and be sure to chew thoroughly. Eat fruits and vegetables that aid in digestion. Soups and pureed foods are easier to digest. Take a leisurely walk after meals. Don’t lie down for at least 2 hours after a meal, avoid carbonated beverages, and take a multivitamin every day.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

People with diabetes have a lot to deal with. They must monitor their blood glucose levels, contend with a weakened immune system, and premature aging. What they may not foresee is a battle with hair loss. Diabetics are far more likely to experience alopecia areata, a condition in which the immune system attacks hair follicles. It can result in hair loss in patches on the head and other parts of the anatomy.

Even with careful blood glucose monitoring, diabetes causes damage within the body. When blood vessels are damaged, they can’t transport oxygen or nutrients throughout the body adequately – and that includes to the scalp. High glucose levels impact the hair’s regular growth patterns.

Hydration is especially important for diabetics. Without sufficient hydration, hair becomes dry, brittle, and more prone to breakage. A variety of nutrients are required for hair growth and a lack of vitamin D contributes to hair loss and stunts new growth.

Additionally, oral medications that lowers blood glucose levels may increase the potential for hair loss. The medications can prevent the body from absorbing vitamin B12 that produces red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen to the scalp. An iron deficiency also affects hair loss and is associated with obesity. Vitamin B7 is also needed for hair growth.

The good news is that when glucose levels are under control, some hair regrowth will occur and fewer hairs will be lost. In most instances, the hair follicles retain the ability to regrow hair. However, that’s small comfort for diabetics that are losing their hair. Hair loss can be gradual and occur over time or suddenly increase in noticeable amounts.

Hair loss due to alopecia areata isn’t life threatening. The psychological and emotional toll is devastating, affecting confidence and self-image. It can be especially detrimental to people with diabetes who may withdraw and discontinue their exercise regimen. The expertise of a dermatologist that’s familiar with hair loss due to diabetes can be especially helpful.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

Anyone with diabetes will have been informed by their doctor about the complications of diabetes – primarily heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, neuropathy and eye disease. However, there are other complications that often aren’t discussed until symptoms occur such as hair loss, a weakened immune system, gum disease, and bone and joint problems. The good news is that there are things diabetics can do to minimize the potential for a variety of health problems.

Diet

Individuals with diabetes know they must control blood glucose levels. It’s equally important to ensure that sufficient vitamins and minerals are obtained. Failure to do so can result in rashes, hair loss, the inability to fight pathogens, and heal wounds.

Eye Exams

They can be time consuming and inconvenient, but they’re essential to detect the earliest signs of deteriorating eyesight. Eye problems due to diabetes can result in blurry vision, cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

Cataracts tend to develop earlier and worsen faster for diabetics. Medications can help with some type of glaucoma, but retinopathy can result in complete loss of vision. Flashes of light, blurred vision, “holes” in vision, and black spots that seem to float are all signs to see a vision specialist.

Dentist Visits

People with diabetes are more prone to gum disease and tooth loss. Byproducts of infections and bacteria can be swallowed where it will circulate through the blood stream. Tooth infections have been directly linked to an increased risk of heart disease in people with diabetes.

Low Libido

A lack of sexual desire affects diabetics more than the general population and it’s related to poorly managed blood glucose levels. A variety of medications for diabetes and neuropathy and can depress sexual desire, affect arousal, and performance. Improved glucose control can help, but isn’t a sure-fire cure.

Bones and Joints

Osteoporosis and conditions such as frozen shoulder are very real concerns for people with diabetes. Diabetics tend to have poorer bone quality, increased risk of fractures, and more joint conditions. Those that inject insulin are at the highest level of risk for a fracture. Careful and consistent management of blood glucose levels, obtaining sufficient vitamin D, and exercise to strengthen are the keys to minimizing the effects of joint and bone conditions.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!

People with diabetes have what may seem like a never-ending list of concerns and precautions to keep their blood glucose levels under control. Monitoring and controlling those levels is especially important since diabetes weakens the immune system.

High glucose levels can produce an inflammatory response in the body. High blood glucose levels result in dysfunction within the body’s immune response. The immune system can fail to fend off invading pathogens and fight infections. The immune system may be impaired in its ability to send white blood cells to the site of an injury. Plaque build-up in blood vessels may inhibit blood flow required to successfully fight infections and neuropathy increases the body’s vulnerability.

People with diabetes typically have a more pronounced response to bacteria, fungi and viruses and they’re more likely to experience complications. Some medications can also contribute to a compromised immune system such as those for Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and those used to treat cancer.

Some of the symptoms of a weakened immune system include a chronic “cold” that doesn’t go away, stomach and digestive problems, slow healing wounds and frequent infections. A weakened immune system can also manifest as feeling tired all the time. Beware of high-stress levels as it weakens the body’s response to invading viruses, bacteria and fungi. Diabetics are more prone to complications from any type of pathogen.

Immune system dysfunction affects metabolism, making it more difficult for people with diabetes to control their blood glucose levels, particularly when they’re ill. A weakened immune system also leads to premature signs of aging. Free radicals from pollution and other sources overwhelm the body’s ability to neutralize them when the immune system is weakened. Excess glucose levels contribute to compromising the immune system.

To give their immune system a boost, diabetics need to get enough sleep, have stress-relieving strategies in place, and get enough exercise. Eating a healthy diet rich in vitamins, nutrients, and low in carbohydrates is essential, along with carefully monitoring blood glucose levels.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!