People with diabetes are at greater risk for heart disease than people without diabetes. Studies have shown that chronic inflammation can lead to a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and other diseases. A CRP test may be a good way for you and your health care providers to check for chronic inflammation. However, at this time the American Heart Association (AHA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) do not believe there is enough evidence to recommend the test. However, the actions to decrease chronic inflammation are the same steps you hear over and over to prevent heart disease, type 2 diabetes and other lifestyle- and weight related diseases: live a healthy lifestyle.
The four key goals are:
- Eat healthy.
- Be active.
- Get to and stay at a healthy weight.
- Don’t smoke.
NEW PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT
Sidekick blood glucose testing system by Walgreens. The Sidekick is a vial of 50 strips with a built-in meter on top. When you run out of test strips, you throw the meter and empty vial away! It’s about the size of a roll of film and easily fits in a backpack, briefcase or purse. It uses a tiny drop of blood, does not need to be coded, gives results in 10 seconds and you can use blood from your forearm or fingertip. The Sidekick does not include a lancing device to stick your finger and it may not be covered by your health plan but many people choose to buy it so that they can more easily check their blood glucose before driving, playing sports, hiking or boating. "I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for developing the Sidekick disposable blood glucose testing system. It has revolutionized my life. I really love the convenience, the size, the price, and the five second results. I have had Type I diabetes for 40 years ... Thank you so very much for making living with this disease less complicated.” Sincerely Yours, L. N.
AN ASPIRIN A DAY? WHICH DOSE IS BEST?
Taking an aspirin a day has been shown to reduce the risk of developing heart and blood vessel disease in people with diabetes. Two commonly available doses are the 81mg,” baby aspirin” and the 325mg, regular strength. The best dose to prevent heart and blood vessel disease has not yet been established. For those who are at high risk for bleeding, health care providers generally recommend a low dose (81mg). But before starting aspirin, it is very important to review the current medicines you take, both prescription and nonprescription, and your health history with your Walgreens pharmacist or health care provider.
