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keto

How the Keto Diet Works for Diabetics

Much has been written about the ketogenic diet in which calories are derived from protein and fat, rather than carbohydrates that can cause blood sugar levels to spike. A keto diet reduces the amount of easily digestible carbs and sugars contained in items such as bread and pastries, which can have distinct benefits for some individuals with diabetes that includes weight loss.

Individuals should always consult with their healthcare provider before making changes in their diet, especially when transitioning to a keto diet. Those changes can affect blood glucose levels, how often individuals need to test and the amount of insulin they inject, along with their activity levels.

A keto diet creates a metabolic state known as ketosis that causes the body to burn fat for energy. Consuming a keto diet can result in constipation and nutrient deficiencies, increase the potential for heart disease, and lower blood pressure. The diet isn’t suitable for everyone, making it imperative that diabetics discuss it with their doctor first.

Diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious complication for diabetics, occurring when the body accumulates too many ketones. Over the counter ketone test kits are available and it’s critical that diabetics test for ketones and monitor their levels. Keto diets can drastically reduce insulin levels. Symptoms indicating that ketosis has been entered include dry mouth, increased thirst, frequent urination, and decreased appetite or hunger.

There are four types of ketogenic diets: standard keto diet (SKD); cyclical keto diet (CKD); targeted keto diet (TKD); and high protein keto diet (HPKD). Only the first two have been extensively studied in relation to diabetes. The latter two are primarily utilized by athletes and bodybuilders.

A ketogenic diet can be beneficial for some diabetics, but it must be approached with caution. The diet can help diabetics lose weight and lower blood glucose levels. However, it can also result in diabetic ketoacidosis that can lead to coma or death if ketones aren’t properly monitored.

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!

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sell test strips online

Get Good Money Selling Unused Test Strips

Individuals across the nation are making money selling their unused test strips. The amount to be made will depend on factors that include the amount a company is paying for them and the number of strips an individual has to sell. Selling test strips won’t place people in a higher tax bracket, but the cash can pay for a variety of extras and there’s very little effort required to sell them.

Individuals can sell their own test strips if they have an excess, those of friends, or the strips of deceased family members that no longer need them. Companies that purchase test strips will pay for postage and funds from the financial transactions can be paid for in multiple ways ranging for digital payments to checks.

There are requirements of which individuals should be aware before attempting to sell their test strips. The strips should have a minimum expiration date of at least 8 months in the future and be in the original, unopened box. Some test strips aren’t eligible for resale. Any strips that were paid for through government-funded insurance such as Medicare and Medicaid can’t be resold.

Companies that buy test strips resell them at a discount to those that are in need. Many individuals have healthcare plans that don’t cover the cost of as many as they require. Other plans may pay for far more than the individual needs, leading to an excess of strips that simply expire before they’re used. It’s a tragic waste as the expired strips are typically thrown away to become fodder for landfills where they do no one any good.

Selling to companies that resell test strips has multiple benefits. The strips earn people cash, help others in need, and is an environmentally-friendly option. Transactions are quick, easy and efficient. It eliminates the time-consuming task of trying to sell them at online marketplaces and individuals have the satisfaction of knowing they’re actually helping others.

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!

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medication

8 Common Medications That Affect Blood Sugar

Many individuals with diabetes also take prescription medications to address health conditions ranging from high blood pressure and depression to COPD. Even over-the-counter (OTC) medications have the potential to affect blood glucose levels – especially those containing alcohol. It’s just one of the reasons why those with diabetes need to tell their doctor what supplements, vitamins and other OTC they’re taking.

Antibiotics

Medications commonly prescribed for infections such as pneumonia and urinary tract infections can increase blood sugar levels. They’re a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones and some early research has postulated that people that take a significant number of antibiotics in their younger years may be more likely to develop diabetes. However, diabetes has often been found to be linked with viral infections for which antibiotics aren’t useful.

Antidepressants

Paxil, Abilify, Seroquel and Zoloft are just some of the antidepressants on the market that have been associated with increased risk of developing diabetes. They can also cause glucose levels to spike, sometimes dangerously so.

Birth Control

The estrogen present in birth control pills can lead to increased levels of glucose in the blood. Depending on the level of estrogen and the individual, oral contraceptives have the potential to increase glucose by up to 33 percent.

COPD

Prednisone, corticosteroids, and oral bronchodilators are used to address COPD, asthma and even rheumatoid arthritis, but they can also lead to increased glucose levels. Much will depend on the dosage and length of use. They stimulate glucose production and inhibit the body’s ability to utilize glucose leading to insulin resistance.

Heart and Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is often an underlying comorbidity of diabetes, but the same medications used to control blood pressure and heart disease can also affect glucose levels. Atenolol and metoprolol, along with those that treat high cholesterol such as atorvastatin, simvastatin and rosuvastatin can result in as much as a 12 percent increase in blood glucose.

HIV

Medications for HIV can increase blood glucose levels. It’s essential that individuals taking HIV medications be checked to ascertain whether they have diabetes prior to starting a regimen of drugs.

Hormone Replacement

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women and diabetes is a tricky combination. Visceral fat that can occur during menopause is a risk factor for diabetes and heart disease. Medications to address those issues can increase glucose levels, while HRT has been closely associated with insulin resistance.

Nicotine

Whether individuals are actively smoking or trying to stop with patches, nicotine in any form can significantly increase glucose levels and make the disease harder to control. Nicotine impairs the body’s glucose tolerance.

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!

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acupuncture

Can Acupuncture Help Diabetes?

Acupuncture has been a component of traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It’s safe and even the World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes acupuncture as an effective treatment for diabetes, neuropathy, maintaining normal blood glucose levels, and other effects of diabetes.

The ancient method is being used to mitigate the symptoms of insulin resistance and assist in weight loss that often accompanies the disease. The goal of acupuncture is the same as modern medical methods, but take different approaches. The technique can be utilized in harmony with Western medicine methods that include insulin, oral medications, diet and exercise.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture utilizes extremely fine needles inserted into designated areas of the body. The treatment has been found to mitigate the pain of diabetic neuropathy and improve blood flow throughout the body, especially the extremities where neuropathy is most likely to occur. Improved circulation is also beneficial for addressing ulcerations and infections that can be common, particularly in individuals with poor diabetic control and management.

Many people are turning to acupuncture as an alternative for pain relief associated with diabetes rather than take potentially addictive pain medications. Multiple trials and analytic studies conducted around the globe have shown that people with the disease demonstrated lower blood glucose levels after fasting and after meals, along with lower A1C levels.

Treating Symptoms

Insulin resistance and higher cholesterol and blood pressure levels are all associated with diabetes. Acupuncture is equally effective in addressing all three of those problems. While not a replacement for Western medical care, acupuncture is beneficial when used in conjunction.

It’s essential that people choose a highly skilled and experienced acupuncturist that adheres to the highest standards of hygiene and sanitation. One way to ensure the best possible experience and results is for individuals to request a referral from their primary healthcare provider. It’s also important for people to understand that ultimately, self-care and management is the key to diabetic health.

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!

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sell test strips

Sell Your Test Strips Before They Expire

Millions of people have sold their diabetic test strips to earn cash while helping the underinsured and the uninsured. Depending on how often you test and how many strips your insurance company allows per month, you may discover that excess strips begin to accumulate. If you’re going to sell them, be sure to do so before they expire. Most companies that buy extra test strips want at least an 8-month window until the strip’s expiration date.

Make Money and Help Others

Test strips are an essential tool for controlling and managing diabetes, but many individuals aren’t able to afford the amount they need. Diabetic test strips can cost as little as 15 cents to manufacture, but can command prices of up to $1.50 each at stores and pharmacies. That can translate into hundreds of dollars per month.

Pharmaceutical companies use a gold coating and chemicals to manufacture test strips. The medical devices use a blood sample to essentially transform the glucose into an electrical current that can be read on a home monitor. The chemicals have a specific life span before they begin to deteriorate, hence their expiration date.

Sell Before Expiration

Test strips that have exceeded their expiration date have been deemed to register inaccurate readings. Without precise readings, people could inject too much or insufficient insulin to manage blood sugar levels, thereby endangering their lives. That’s why it’s critical that you sell your test strips before they expire. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has even issued specific warnings about using expired test steps.

Selling your test strips is fast, easy and convenient – and provides individuals with the means to make some extra cash. It’s essential that boxes of test strips you’re selling have at least an 8-month experience date and are in the original, unopened package. Purchasing discounted diabetic test strips is the only option for some individuals and an extended expiration date ensures accurate readings.

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!

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emergency diabetes kit

What to Pack in a Blood Sugar Emergency Kit

There are dozens of situations in which an emergency diabetes kit is essential, particularly during a natural disaster, power outage or if travel plans are disrupted. Individuals should pack enough supplies for 7 days in their emergency kit. The following are the components of a basic blood sugar emergency kit.

Cooler

The first thing individuals will need is mini cooler and reusable cold packs to keep insulin cool. Some use a small amount of premade ice to start and use non-rigid cool packs to protect the insulin. There are also pre-made diabetes emergency kits, but they typically contain ancillary items to address high or low glucose levels.

Insulin

Don’t forget the insulin. It’s the last item to be placed in an emergency kit for those using refrigerated medication. There’s also insulin that doesn’t require refrigeration and is good for up to 30 days after opening when maintained in temperatures between 59°F and 86°F. Just be sure to rotate the supply periodically to ensure it hasn’t expired.

Glucose Meter

All the planning in the world will come to naught if a glucose meter isn’t included in the emergency pack. It’s critical for monitoring glucose levels.

Test Strips & Lancets

A glucose meter is of no use without the lancets to obtain a blood sample for testing or the test strips to insert into the meter.

Syringes & Alcohol Wipes

At some point, individuals will need to inject insulin to manage their disease and a supply of hygienic syringes is essential. Individually packaged syringes are best for an emergency diabetes kit. Alcohol wipes are necessary for cleaning the injection site.

Glucagon or Glucose Tablets

In the event of a dangerous low sugar event, Glucagon is an injectable to quickly raise glucose levels. Others choose to include a package or two of glucose tablets to deal with low blood sugar since the tablets typically have a long expiration date.

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!

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frozen shoulder

Frozen Shoulder

People with diabetes face a constant battle of choosing the right foods, monitoring their blood glucose levels, and administering the right amount of insulin. What many may not know is that they’re at increased risk of experiencing a condition called adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder. It occurs when the connective tissue around the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, stiff and swollen.

Effects of frozen shoulder

The pain and inflammation make it difficult to perform everyday activities. As the condition progresses, the stiffness becomes worse and the pain can be excruciating. Frozen shoulder is a symptom associated with poorly managed glucose levels. High levels of glucose affect the protein collagen that’s a major component of connective tissue.

Frozen shoulder typically affects those around the age of 52 and 25 percent of diabetics will experience it. As the condition progresses, the connective tissue of the shoulder thickens, tightens around the joint, and restricts movement. People with diabetes often experience the most severe cases of frozen shoulder.

Stages of frozen shoulder

There are three stages of frozen shoulder. The first is the “freezing stage” with stiffness and pain. In the “frozen phase,” there’s often less pain, but more shoulder stiffness. In the “thawing stage,” the shoulder returns to its previous, normal range of motion.

Since it develops slowly over time, frozen shoulder is often mistaken for arthritis and misdiagnosed by those in the medical community. Even with an MRI, doctors may see what’s termed as age-appropriate rotator cuff tears with a stiff shoulder. It’s a good idea to ask if it could actually be frozen shoulder, since the treatment for each is different.

Treatments

The usual treatment prescribed by physicians is a non-steroid anti-inflammatory medication for pain and a series of exercises that can be performed at home. If the condition doesn’t improve in a specified amount of time, the doctor may prescribe some combination of physical therapy, steroid injections or even acupuncture until frozen shoulder is resolved.

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!

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Thanksgiving

Tips for Diabetes-Friendly Thanksgiving Dishes

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and it’s a time that can be particularly frustrating for people with diabetes. Many of the traditional holiday dishes served during Thanksgiving are laden with sugars and carbohydrates that adversely affect control of the disease.

The good news is that turkey is still on the menu – as long as it’s roasted instead of fried. It’s protein-rich and won’t disrupt carb counting. It’s not difficult to produce delicious diabetes-friendly dishes with a few adjustments or substitutions. The following are some tips for Thanksgiving dishes that are diabetic-friendly.

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a tradition at Thanksgiving, but an increasing number of people are moving to riced cauliflower as a healthy alternative. It can be purchased pre-made or prepared at home with fresh cauliflower that’s been cooked and run through a blender. A ½ cup of mashed potatoes contains 18 grams of carbs, while ½ cup of riced cauliflower contains 3 to 5 grams, depending on the brand.

Candied Yams

Also known as sweet potatoes, candied yams are an invitation to a “sugar coma.” Yams are a good source of vitamins and minerals, but candied yams have an average of 36 grams of carbs. When yams are cooked, they tend to take on a sweeter flavor on their own. Try eliminating the marshmallows, significantly reducing the amount of brown sugar, and using spices to acquire a sweet or spicy flavor.

Stuffing

There aren’t many options when it comes to stuffing. However, individuals can cut some carbs to make it healthier by using unsalted butter, along with a low-sodium or unsalted broth/stock. Another strategy is to use a low-carb bread or those made with nut flour. Just don’t expect it to have the same taste or texture as usual. Stuffing is a dish that diabetics should consume in small amounts.

Additional Tips

Alcoholic beverages are loaded with carbs – and they can react poorly with some medications – so minimize the amount consumed. Instead of a normal-sized slice of pumpkin pie, take one that’s half the usual size and eat smaller portions of the actual dinner. Don’t starve in anticipation of the meal. It only leads to overeating. Moderation is the key. It can also be helpful to offer vegetable-based appetizers. They’re low in calories and help fill individuals up before the main event.

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!

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diabetic test strips

Ways to Save Money on Diabetic Test Strips

Anyone with diabetes knows how expensive test strips can be, not to mention the myriad of other supplies that individuals need to monitor, manage and control their glucose levels. The costs of those items continue to escalate. The good news is that there are ways to save money on diabetic test strips.

Purchase From a Third-Party

Many third-party companies buy top quality test strips from individuals that have more than they require or no longer need them. The companies then sell them at a discount to diabetic clients that may be uninsured, underinsured, or whose insurance won’t supply as many as they need each month.

Drug/Coupon Cards

Drug manufacturers sometimes provide coupons for purchasing test strips at a discount. There are also phone apps that will compare prices across multiple pharmacies to find the lowest prices. Individuals can simply show their result at the designated pharmacy or print out a physical copy of the coupon from a home printer.

Clinics and Non-Profits

Some community clinics and health centers have taken the lead for their patients and established programs to distribute test strips or offer them at a discount. Some non-profit organizations are doing the same thing.

Mail Order and Rewards

There are some pharmacies that provide clients with a discount when they order their test strips – and medications – by mail rather than picking them up locally. Many pharmacies offer reward program points that can be redeemed for pharmacy items.

Assistance Programs

Several pharmaceutical companies offer assistance programs that provide free or discounted pricing. There will be specific program-based application forms to complete by the individual and their doctor. Some states also offer their own assistance programs in coordination with Medicare and insurance companies – each state is different.

Buy in Bulk

There will be a considerable monetary outlay initially, but the cost of each strip will be less.

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!

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exercise for diabetics

5 Great Exercises for Diabetics

Exercise is an important element for diabetics to manage their disease, but it’s especially important for preventing insulin resistance. The condition occurs when the body doesn’t utilize insulin effectively and can result in individuals needing to use larger doses of insulin to combat the effects of more glucose in the blood.

Experts recommend diabetics engage in some type of exercise 3 to 4 times per week, in sessions of 30 minutes. There are dozens of activities that allow individuals to reach those goals. Diabetics should choose a type of exercise they enjoy as they’re more likely to do it consistently. Any exercise will aid in fighting insulin resistance and losing weight.

Swimming

Gliding through the water is more than just a pleasant pastime – it utilizes every muscle in the body. It burns calories for weight loss, builds strength and endurance, and is particularly beneficial for the heart. Water buoys and supports the swimmer, while reducing the effects of gravity on the body.

Tai Chi

The ancient Chinese tradition was developed as a means of self-defense. There are now sessions in which it’s practiced as a graceful form of exercise. It aids in managing stress and the body is in constant motion. It places minimal stress on joints, muscles, and is scientifically proven effective against insulin resistance.

Walking

A brisk walk requires no special equipment and is low-impact. Walking a dog for 30 minutes has benefits for the canine and their human companion. Try tracking steps and progress as a motivational tool.

Dancing

It’s fun, can be done with a partner, or even alone at home. It burns calories, relieves stress, and is good for the heart and lowering blood pressure.

Gardening

Most people don’t realize how relaxing flower or vegetable gardening can be. It lowers stress, builds muscle and strength. It’s a low-impact, aerobic form of exercise.

Multiple Methods

There’s a myriad of ways for diabetics to get the exercise they need. Yoga, cycling, rollerblading, and horseback riding are just some of the opportunities to improve balance and fitness levels. Individuals can choose an activity they already enjoy before attempting to move out of their comfort zone.

 

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!

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