Each chapter is split up into easy to read chunks. There are myths and facts listed, questions commonly asked about diabetes, definitions, statistics, red flags and tips and tactics. The fonts are larger than the average book, which is also a bonus.
Diabetes Prevention and Management
Type 2 is the most common type of diabetes. One of the main reasons type 2 cases are rising is because the number of obese people is increasing. According to Real-Life Guide to Diabetes, if people eat healthier, become more active and lose 5 to 7% of their body weight, they can prevent or prolong the likelihood of developing Type 2 diabetes. If they have already developed it, the suggested steps are still helpful with managing diabetes. Extensive information about type 1 diabetes is also included.
- Chapter 2 focuses on “knowing and controlling your ABCs”. This includes information about how to understand blood glucose numbers and the importance of recording and monitoring it.
- Chapter 3 stresses the importance of obtaining a positive support system. This includes health care providers, family, friends, support groups and members of your community.
Lifestyle Changes and Healthy Eating
Chapter 4 and 5 and 6 offer important information on behavioral changes and instructions on how to eat healthier. Lifestyle changes are difficult, especially if negative patterns have been followed for years. There’s interesting and useful information about behavior change theories that will aid in the transition. It's valuable for anyone but particularly helpful for diabetics trying to make major changes.
For meal planning, there are some simple portion control tools and methods to follow that are helpful. Suggestions on what types of food to eat are offered along with information on carbohydrates, fiber, protein, fat and salt. There’s a quick formula to calculate what an individual’s energy needs are and how many calories they would need depending on their level of activity.
Important information about food label’s nutrition facts is also included. One of the reasons it’s important is because the portion size is clarified. Portions given on food labels are often smaller than what a person actually ingests, so when tracking calories, carbs, sodium, sugars or fat intake, calculations may need to be doubled.
Other chapters focus on the importance of physical activity with diabetes, medications that lower blood glucose, alternative methods, stress and depression, monitoring glucose and blood pressure, losing weight, managing diabetes when on vacation or off schedule and sexual health.
It’s an extremely detailed yet straightforward book that could be used as an ongoing reference for anyone who has diabetes or is interested in it. The great thing about the Real-Life Guide to Diabetes is that it is flexible so it offers solutions that are realistic for everyone.
About Hope Warshaw and Joy Pape
Hope Warshaw has 30 years experience as an author and is also a dietitian and diabetes educator. She’s the contributing editor for Diabetic Living and she continues to volunteer to help others with diabetes. Other books Hope has authored include Guide to Healthy Restaurant Eating, Complete Guide to Carb Counting and Diabetes Meal Planning Made Easy.
Joy Pape is a certified diabetes nurse educator and certified foot care nurse. She has personal experience because diabetes has been in her family for generations. After she was diagnosed with pre-diabetes, she lost 60 pounds and has kept it off for 20 years. Joy also has over 30 years of experience in the health care field.
