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Your Diabetes Insider Podcast
Your Diabetes Insider Podcast
Author: Ben Tzeel
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© 2023
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Welcome to the Your Diabetes Insider Podcast, where we take all the mysteries of blood sugar control, focusing on nutrition, exercise, and any of the other 40+ factors that may impact your blood sugars. I'm Ben Tzeel, a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator, strength coach, and Type 1 diabetic myself of over 20 years. Join me as I share my personal and professional experiences, helping you have your best blood sugars while living your best life with diabetes!
132 Episodes
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Ever had a travel disaster? Imagine dealing with it while managing diabetes! In this episode of Your Diabetes Insider Podcast, I share my recent trip from Tampa to L.A. that turned into a full-blown diabetes travel nightmare. From flight delays to site failures, I break down what went wrong, how I handled it, and—most importantly—what you can do to avoid the same stress. Whether you love to travel or it makes you anxious, this one's packed with real talk and practical tips. Buckle up! 🚀 Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Join our EXCLUSIVE Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/266766620895432 Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
Christmas is right around the corner, and if you live with diabetes, this holiday comes with a few extra curveballs! Different foods, weird schedules, closed gyms, late nights, and a lot of temptation. In this episode, I walk you through how to actually prepare for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day without stressing or wrecking your blood sugars. We talk workouts when the gym is closed, why movement matters even more than Thanksgiving, how fat and protein sneak up hours later, medication timing, portion control, sleep, and how to enjoy the holiday without feeling out of control. This isn't about being perfect or skipping your favorite foods. It's about having a simple game plan so you can enjoy the holidays, stay mostly in range, and feel good doing it! Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @yourdiabetesinsider Tiktok: @manoftzeel
In this episode of Your Diabetes Insider Podcast, we're diving into a super important question: Can you actually trust your CGM right now? With recent headlines about the Freestyle Libre 3 recall - including reports of inaccurate readings, injuries, and even deaths PLUS ongoing Dexcom G7 issues like failed alerts, sensor errors, and big accuracy swings, it's no wonder people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes are feeling unsure about their devices. I'm breaking down what's really going on with CGMs, why your readings might be 25–100 points off, how that impacts dosing decisions (especially with pumps and automated systems), and what you can do to protect yourself. From calibrating new sensors, to "soaking" them before activation, to keeping a backup meter (non-negotiable!), this episode gives you practical, real-life tips to stay safe and confident using your Dexcom, Libre, or any CGM. If you've ever looked at your number and thought, "There's no way that's right," this one's definitely for you! Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
If you've ever wished someone would just answer your diabetes questions in a real, straightforward way, this episode is for you. Today I'm going through a bunch of questions I got from social media - everything from low blood sugar panic moments to how to pick the right bread when you have type 2 diabetes! We talk about what number is actually considered a low, why you might feel shaky at 78, and how many carbs you really need to treat a low without rebounding into the 180s. I also break down how to read food labels so you're not guessing, plus why glucose tabs are honestly kind of gross and what you can use instead. We also get into how to bring down a high blood sugar quickly in a safe way, how hydration and movement play a huge role, and which breads tend to be more blood-sugar-friendly for people with type 2 diabetes. If you want better blood sugars, more confidence with carbs, and simple steps you can actually use in real life, you're going to love this one! Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
Welcome back to the Your Diabetes Insider Podcast. Somehow, it's already December - one of the toughest months of the year for anyone trying to keep their blood sugars, routines, and goals on track. In this episode, I break down why December is the real difference-maker for what your blood sugars, A1C, and overall health will look like in 2026! Most people wait for January to "start fresh," but the truth is simple: the habits you carry through December either give you a running start or put you weeks behind before the new year even begins. We dig into why resolutions fall apart so fast, how to keep your workouts consistent when schedules get messy, ways to manage stress and sleep, how to handle holiday snacking without blowing up your numbers, and the small daily decisions that prevent the usual holiday weight gain and spikes. December can set you up or set you back. This episode is all about helping you survive the season, protect your numbers, and walk into January feeling steady, confident, and already moving in the right direction. Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
If Thanksgiving day feels manageable but the rest of the week totally throws you off - this episode is for you! We're talking travel stress, being out of routine, random snacking, sleep getting wrecked, family drama (yep…), and how all of that can push your blood sugars into full-on Rocky Mountain mode. In this episode of Your Diabetes Insider Podcast, Ben breaks down how to stay in range while traveling, what to do when you're completely out of routine, and why holiday grazing can send your blood sugars skyrocketing. You'll also learn simple ways to keep your activity on point (even without your usual gym), how sleep and stress affect your numbers, and what to do with all the leftovers after Thanksgiving. Whether you're heading home, hosting the whole crew, or navigating a chaotic holiday week, you'll walk away with a plan that actually works without feeling restricted. This guide is perfect for Thanksgiving week, Christmas week, or any holiday stretch where routines disappear! Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
In this episode, Ben breaks down a simple Thanksgiving strategy so your blood sugar doesn't get wrecked before dessert even hits the table. We talk real prep, activity, hydration, what to eat before the big meal, how to build your plate, and how to decide what's actually worth the insulin. If past holidays have thrown you off, this year doesn't have to. Here's the clear plan to feel good, stay present, and still enjoy the food you love! Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel
In honor of National Diabetes Awareness Month, Ben shares the top 8 things he wishes he knew earlier about managing diabetes. From understanding how fat really affects your blood sugar to why daily movement matters more than you think, he breaks down the practical lessons that make diabetes management easier. Whether you've had diabetes for years or just got diagnosed, this episode of Your Diabetes Insider Podcast is packed with real-world tips to help you stay in range, feel your best, and live fully without feeling limited! Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
In this episode, Ben sits down to answer your most common diabetes questions from social and email - from what to grab during a low, to what really happens when insulin overheats in the sun, to how some people have lived with diabetes for decades without complications. He also shares a wild personal story about a low that left his tongue numb, plus tips on managing blood sugars during workouts, college testing, and pump vs. MDI. If you've ever wondered, "Am I doing this right?"- this one's for you. Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
Halloween doesn't have to be stressful when you're living with diabetes. In this episode, Ben shares his personal Halloween game plan-from handling trick-or-treating with your kids to managing blood sugars while still enjoying your favorite candy. You'll learn how to prep, dose smart, and even turn your candy stash into a low snack supply for later. This one's all about making Halloween fun again, without the guilt or the chaos! Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
Hey, I'm Ben Tzeel. In this quick episode, I explain why blood sugars often creep up in fall and it's not just pumpkin treats! We talk about the under the radar role of temperature and season changes, how less daylight and fewer steps can sneakily raise your numbers, and what to check in your data. I share a personal story about steps saving my day and give practical tips: look at your CGM or logs, message your care team about medication adjustments, and plan for holiday foods so you can enjoy them without getting derailed. Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
In this episode of Your Diabetes Insider Podcast, Ben breaks down everything you need to know about insulin pumps - what's out there, how they work, and whether switching from injections is worth it. He covers the pros and cons of top options like Omnipod, Tandem, and Medtronic, shares real talk on convenience vs. reliability, and gives tips for figuring out which system fits your lifestyle best. If you've ever wondered, "Should I get a pump—or stick with shots?" this episode will help you decide. Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
Getting sick is never fun, but when you have diabetes, it hits different. In this episode, Ben breaks down why illness can send blood sugars off the rails, what warning signs to watch for, and how to prep a sick day game plan with your care team so you're not caught off guard! Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
In this episode, I sit down with Amy Behimer to talk about the rise of autoimmunity, how it connects to diabetes, and what it's really like to live with multiple diagnoses. Amy shares her personal story, her background as a pharmacist and coach, and the mindset shifts that helped her turn tough moments into growth. We also get into practical ways to reframe your thoughts so you can feel more confident managing your health starting today. Take Amy's quiz: www.amybehimercoaching.com/quiz Visit her website: www.amybehimercoaching.com/join Follow her on Instagram: instagram.com/amybehimercoaching Listen to The Habit Hub Podcast: thehabithubpodcast.amybehimercoaching.com Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
In this episode of the Your Diabetes Insider Podcast, I dig into how adrenaline can send your blood sugars climbing even if you're not the one on the field. From football games to big tests to performing on stage, stress can throw your numbers for a loop. I'll share my own football fan story, explain what's really happening in your body, and give you practical tips so you don't crash hard once the stress fades. Come see what the hype is all about! Your spot in the Blood Sugar Club is ready ➡️https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/blood-sugar-club Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
In this episode, I talk about how to handle blood sugars during big life events like weddings, graduations, or even funerals. These are the moments where you want to be fully present - not distracted by alarms or highs and lows. I'll share how to keep your numbers steady so you can enjoy the day without sacrificing your health or your memories! Come see what the hype is all about! Your spot in the Blood Sugar Club is ready ➡️https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/blood-sugar-club Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
Got questions about diabetes? I've got answers. In this Q&A episode, I dive into what to do when you feel burned out after years (or even months) of managing diabetes, how to stop your blood sugars from spiking after meals, and what happens if you take a break from your insulin pump. I'll explain why carb counting is your secret weapon, how to spot bad advice, and the mindset shift that makes diabetes feel a lot less overwhelming. And then—stick around for the last question, because it's hands-down one of the wildest I've ever been asked on the podcast. Whether you're type 1, type 2, on injections, or using a pump, this episode gives you real, practical tips to make life with diabetes feel easier! Come see what the hype is all about! Your spot in the Blood Sugar Club is ready ➡️https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/blood-sugar-club Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
School's back, and if you're living with diabetes (or your kid is), the classroom can feel like a whole new challenge. In this episode, I'm sharing the exact steps that helped me keep blood sugars in check during exams, classes, and even those early mornings. From getting a 504 plan to simple ways to advocate for yourself, this one's all about making sure diabetes doesn't hold you back from thriving in school! Come see what the hype is all about! Your spot in the Blood Sugar Club is ready ➡️https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/blood-sugar-club Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
I just got back from an epic hike in Canada, over 7 miles and 21,000+ steps - all while on multiple daily injections! The best part? My blood sugars stayed perfectly in range the entire time. In this episode, I break down exactly what I ate, how I timed my insulin, and the small tweaks I made on the trail to avoid both highs and lows. If you've ever wondered how to keep your numbers steady during a big hike or long day of activity, this one's for you. Come see what the hype is all about! Your spot in the Blood Sugar Club is ready ➡️https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/blood-sugar-club Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel
Let's be real - there's a LOT of bad diabetes advice floating around on TikTok, Instagram, and even from well-meaning doctors. In this episode, I'm calling out some of the most common myths, from "A1C under 7 means you're fine" to "low carb fixes everything" to "fruit is the enemy." We'll dig into why these ideas stick, what the real story is, and how to think smarter about your numbers, food choices, and insulin without falling for the internet nonsense! Come see what the hype is all about! Your spot in the Blood Sugar Club is ready ➡️https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/blood-sugar-club Want the best blood sugars you've ever had while enjoying great food? Peep this: https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/coaching RESOURCES: Download these FREE guides that will help you on your diabetes, nutrition, and exercise journey! https://www.yourdiabetesinsider.com/free-stuff Watch my food breakdowns here → https://www.youtube.com/@yourdiabetesinsider LET'S TALK! Instagram: @manoftzeel Tiktok: @manoftzeel



