Sunday, September 14, 2008

Health Tips for September 14

Health Tip: Keep a Meal Schedule

Not only do many diabetics need to monitor what they eat, they need to pay attention to what time they eat it.

The American Diabetes Association says it's important to keep a regular schedule for meals. It offers the following suggestions:

* Schedule dinner get-togethers at your normal meal time.
* Choose locations and times when you won't have to wait too long to eat.
* When possible, make a reservation.
* Avoid dishes that take an unusually long time to prepare.
* If you know that your meal will be much later than usual, have your bedtime snack at your usual mealtime, then eat a later dinner. Talk to your doctor about how to adjust your insulin when you do this.

Health Tip: When Your Diabetic Child Takes a Trip

Having diabetes shouldn't cause your child to miss out on the fun of sleepovers and school field trips.

Prepare your diabetic child for time away from home with these recommendations from the American Diabetes Association:

* Pack a bag with everything your child will need, including insulin, syringes, a meter, test strips and a log book. Pack extras of everything.
* If traveling for several hours, pack several snacks, juices and glucose tablets.
* If your child will be changing time zones, talk to your doctor about how to adjust the insulin schedule accordingly.
* Make sure your child wears a medical ID bracelet that notes diabetes.
* Make sure your child checks glucose levels more frequently away from home.
* Make sure that any adults accompanying your child understand diabetes and how to manage it.

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