Diabetes Frequently Asked Questions

No. Once diagnosed with Diabetes, it will always be present. However, weight loss is beneficial to help manage Diabetes. Studies have shown that metabolic functions/blood sugars begin to improve with small weight loss changes of 5-7%. It is advised to strive toward healthy body weight with a body mass index below 25.

Yes. You should test your blood sugars every day. Knowing your blood sugar levels allows you to alter how you are managing your Diabetes if your levels are not near your target blood sugar. Also, regular testing can help reduce your risk of having long-term complications from Diabetes. Studies have shown maintaining near normal blood sugar levels significantly reduces the risk of complications from Diabetes.

Those who have Type 1 Diabetes and some who have Type 2 Diabetes need to take insulin to help control their blood sugar levels. The goal of taking insulin is to help keep your blood sugar level in a normal range so you will stay healthy and prevent complications of uncontrolled blood sugars. Insulin cannot be taken by mouth; it must be injected using syringes, insulin pens, or an insulin pump.

  • Sugar-free jello (0 g carbs)
  • Peanuts in shell (3.6 net carbs per 28 nuts)
  • Sugar-free popsicles (4 carbs per popsicle)
  • Almonds (2.3 net carbs per 24 nuts)
  • Dill Pickles (1 g carb per 3 big slices)
  • Strawberries (raw) (1.7 net carbs per 1/4 cup)
  • Cheddar Cheese (0 net carbs per 1/2 cup)

When dining out, estimating carbohydrates is based on which foods selected contain carbs and portions given. Often food portions served are excessive. Carbs and calorie intake from meals can be reduced by eating half of the meal served and by saving the remainder for another meal or splitting the meal with a friend. For specific nutrient/carb information, look at a menu online or refer to www.calorieking.com for specific restaurant nutrient information.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring FAQs

A Continuous Glucose Monitoring system is a device used to measure your glucose level every few minutes, 24 hours a day. The CGM allows you to see your current glucose level and whether your glucose is going up, down or staying steady. A CGM sensor is about the size of a quarter and is typically worn on your stomach or the back of your arm. The sensor reads your glucose levels and sends the information to your smartphone of other reader device.

  • People with type 1 diabetes.
  • People with type 2 diabetes who are taking multiple daily injections of insulin.
  • People who have unexplained fluctuations in blood glucose or frequently need to modify insulin doses.
  • People who experience frequent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or frequent hyperglycemia.
  • People who are unaware or suspicious of overnight hypoglycemia.
  • People whose A1C is inconsistent with self-monitored blood glucose results.

  • To help you meet your A1C goal, which leads to better health and improved quality of life.
  • To decrease the need for fingersticks.
  • To reduce the frequency of low glucose. Some CGM models have alerts for high and low glucose levels.
  • To have the ability to remotely share glucose data with family / friends and your healthcare team.
  • To see how often your glucose level is in target range.
  • To provide a detailed picture of how daily food choices, activity levels and diabetes medications are affecting glucose levels, which helps you make decisions about managing your diabetes.

This varies greatly, so we encourage you to check with your insurance plan.

Ask your primary care provider if they believe Continuous Glucose Monitoring would be medically beneficial for you. If so, contact your insurance company to determine coverage. Then, meet with a diabetes educator for training on Continuous Glucose Monitoring and continued follow up. A diabetes educator can help you focus on pattern management taking into account diet, exercise and medication adjustments.

Diabetes Education

Contact Information

Healthcare Options

Mywhportal Rgb White No Circle

Manage your health online…
at your convenience!