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Monitoring

Monitoring
Staying on track with blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure, and weight
By Theresa Garnero

Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) has transformed diabetes self-management. You can know your glucose levels by performing a simple blood test, practically anywhere. SMBG reduces diabetes complications! Most insurance companies cover the testing supplies, providing you have a doctor's prescription. If you are interested in learning how to test your glucose, see your diabetes nurse educator.

The other components of monitoring involve blood pressure and lipids (cholesterol) levels. These two very important elements of diabetes management are often overlooked.

Visit these resources for key information on diabetes monitoring:

Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose

• Testing Goals

• Glucose Testing

• The Importance of Self Blood Glucose Testing

• Choosing a Monitor

• Alternative Site Testing

• Blood Glucose Meter Accuracy

• Handling Blood Sugar Highs and Lows

• Continuous Glucose Monitors

Blood Pressure

• What is Hypertension?

• Controlling High Blood Pressure

• How is Blood Pressure Tested?

• Tips for Having Your Blood Pressure Taken

• 16 Non-Drug Ways to Lower Blood Pressure

Cholesterol

• What is Cholesterol?

• Lipid Panel Blood Test

• Lower Your Cholesterol

• Staying Heart Healthy (video)

Ketones

• What Are Ketones? What Causes Them?

• When to Test for Ketones (Podcast)

• Signs of DKA (Diabetic Ketoacidosis)

Weight Management

• About Weight and Diabetes

• Body Mass Index (BMI) Calculator

• Join the Tummy Trim Challenge

• Biggest Loser Erik Chopin On His Weight Loss Journey and Diabetes Struggle (Video)

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SOURCE:

1 - American Association of Diabetes Educators. AADE 7 Self-Care Behaviors. (Accessed 2/19/08).