Managing Diabetes
Diabetes
While Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition unrelated to modifiable lifestyle factors, Type 2 Diabetes is influenced by modifiable factors and can be prevented. Consistently consuming a high-sugar diet and being overweight contribute to a decline in insulin's ability to regulate blood sugar, leading to prediabetes and diabetes.
When we consume food, our bodies extract glucose, and insulin is dispatched from the pancreas to manage this glucose supply. This continuous glucose supply is vital, akin to oxygen, as our brains and bodies depend on it incessantly; our existence relies on this uninterrupted fuel source. However, issues with insulin production and insulin resistance disrupt the proper control of blood glucose levels, forcing the pancreas into overdrive. Over time, the pancreas becomes overworked, and a diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes typically occurs when 50-70% of pancreatic cells lose their functionality. Type 2 diabetes manifests when the fuel management system malfunctions, either due to reduced insulin production or the ineffectiveness of the insulin produced.
Diabetes management typically involves the use of various medications, including oral medications and injectable medications (insulin and non-insulin injectables), to help regulate blood sugar levels. The choice of medication depends on the type of diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2), individual health needs, and the recommendations of healthcare professionals.
Individuals with Type 1 diabetes require insulin therapy as their pancreas does not produce insulin. Various types of insulin are available, including rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting insulin. Insulin is typically administered through injections or insulin pumps.
Metformin is usually the first-line medication for Type 2 diabetes. It improves insulin sensitivity and reduces the liver's production of glucose. It is available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations. Some individuals with Type 2 diabetes may eventually require insulin therapy, either alone or in combination with other medications. Fixed-Dose Combination Medication combines two or more diabetes drugs into a single pill to simplify treatment regimens and improve adherence. For some people with Type 2 diabetes who need insulin therapy, basal insulin provides a steady, background insulin level throughout the day.
Metformin
Sulfonylureas
Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (DPP-4) Inhibitors
Thiazolidinediones (TZDs)
Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors
Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) Inhibitors
Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor Agonists
Insulin
Fixed-Dose Combination Medications
Diabetes Management
Diabetes Management Technology
There is a range of technology available for someone with diabetes. Technology has significantly advanced in the field of diabetes management, providing individuals with innovative tools and devices to monitor and control their blood sugar levels more effectively. These technologies continue to evolve, offering greater convenience, accuracy, and ease of use for individuals living with diabetes.
These portable devices allow individuals to measure their blood glucose levels by pricking their finger and applying a small blood sample to a test strip. Modern glucose meters provide fast and accurate readings.
Glucose Meters
CGM systems consist of a small sensor inserted under the skin to measure glucose levels continuously throughout the day and night. Data is transmitted to a receiver or smartphone app for real-time monitoring.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems
Insulin pumps are wearable devices that deliver a continuous supply of insulin to help manage blood sugar levels. Users can adjust insulin delivery based on their needs, and some pumps can be integrated with CGM systems.
Insulin Pumps
Insulin pens are convenient and portable devices used to administer insulin. They offer accurate dosing and are available in reusable and disposable forms.
Gan & Lee Pharmaceuticals PRANDIMET FlexPen
Apidra SoloStar (for Apidra insulin)
Levemir FlexTouch (for Levemir insulin)
Tresiba FlexTouch (for Tresiba insulin)
Insulin Pens
These wearable devices provide a discreet and continuous supply of insulin. Users can control dosing via a smartphone app.
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Omnipod: The Omnipod system consists of a tubeless, waterproof pod that adheres to the skin and is controlled by a handheld Personal Diabetes Manager (PDM). Users can wirelessly control insulin delivery through the PDM.
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Cellnovo: Cellnovo offers an insulin patch pump system with a wireless touchscreen handset that controls insulin delivery. The patch pump adheres to the skin and can be discreetly worn.
Insulin Patch Pumps
Smart insulin pens connect to smartphone apps to track insulin doses, provide reminders, and generate reports for better diabetes management.
Smart Insulin Pens
These closed-loop systems automatically adjust insulin delivery based on CGM data to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Artificial Pancreas Systems
Like CGM, FGM systems consist of a sensor placed on the skin to measure glucose levels. Users can scan the sensor with a reader or smartphone to obtain glucose readings.
Flash Glucose Monitoring Systems
Emerging technologies include devices that automatically adjust insulin delivery based on glucose data, helping to prevent hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia.
Smart Insulin Delivery Devices
These advanced systems combine CGM and insulin pumps to automate insulin delivery and maintain tight glucose control.
Tandem Diabetes Care Control-IQ
Closed Loop Artificial Pancreas Systems
Ketone meters measure the level of ketones in the blood or urine, providing valuable information for individuals with diabetes, especially those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
Ketone Meters
Diabetes Management Apps
Diabetes management apps are mobile applications designed to help individuals with diabetes monitor their blood sugar levels, track their medication and insulin doses, manage their diet and nutrition, and make informed decisions about their health. These apps can be valuable tools for individuals living with diabetes, providing convenient ways to manage their condition and improve their overall well-being. Smartphone apps allow users to track blood sugar levels, medications, meals, and physical activity. Some apps offer features like carb counting and insulin dose calculation.
WaveSense Diabetes Manager (Android and iOS)
Yazio (Android and iOS).
Diabetes PA (Android and iOS)
BG Logger (Android and iOS)
If diabetes is an issue that impacts you, why not try one of these diabetes management strategies today. Technology is your friend, use it.
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