Diabetes Digital Podcast by Food Heaven

In this episode, hosts Jessica Jones and Wendy Lopez explore the vital role dietitians play in managing diabetes effectively. Join us as we delve into how working with a registered dietitian can provide personalized, evidence-based guidance to improve your blood sugar control, enhance your overall health, and support sustainable lifestyle changes. We discuss the science behind medical nutrition therapy and our compassionate, non-judgmental approach to help you thrive with diabetes. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been managing diabetes for years, this episode offers valuable information and practical tips to empower you on your health journey. Don't miss it! Catch the episode on our website or your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to subscribe to stay updated on our latest releases. Our two simple asks to help us continue a free biweekly show: Rate on iTunes or Spotify -  it literally takes two seconds Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes Diabetes & Prediabetes Nutrition Counseling Are you living with diabetes or prediabetes and seeking support from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist covered by insurance? Visit diabetesdigital.co to sign up for personalized, one-on-one nutrition counseling with one of our culturally aware and weight-inclusive Diabetes Dietitians today! For additional resources and shownotes, visit diabetesdigital.co/podcast

In today’s podcast episode, we are joined by Maya Feller, MS, RD, CDN, of Brooklyn-based Maya Feller Nutrition. Maya, a registered dietitian nutritionist and author of "Eating from Our Roots: 80+ Healthy Home-Cooked Favorites from Cultures Around the World," also co-hosts Slate's new wellness podcast, "Well, Now." The discussion centers on the controversial topic of artificial sweeteners, exploring their safety, impact on blood sugar levels, and potential health concerns. Maya provides insights on popular alternatives like monk fruit and stevia, and offers practical advice for making informed dietary choices. Tune in to this episode for an engaging and informative conversation on managing diabetes with the help of artificial sweeteners and diet modifications. In This Episode We’ll Cover:  Safety concerns and health impacts of artificial sweeteners for individuals with diabetes and prediabetes Detailed comparisons of various artificial sweeteners, including aspartame, saccharin, sucralose, stevia, and monk fruit Insights into how artificial sweeteners affect blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity Discussion on the controversies and public perceptions surrounding artificial sweeteners Practical advice on choosing and using artificial sweeteners as part of a balanced diet for managing diabetes Understanding the FDA and USDA guidelines on the use of artificial sweeteners and their classification as generally safe Exploration of natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, and agave, and their comparison to artificial sweeteners Tips on how to incorporate artificial sweeteners into a diet without compromising gut health and overall nutrition Our two simple asks to help us continue a free biweekly show: Rate on iTunes or Spotify -  it literally takes two seconds Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes Diabetes & Prediabetes Nutrition Counseling Are you living with diabetes or prediabetes and seeking support from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist covered by insurance? Visit diabetesdigital.co to sign up for personalized, one-on-one nutrition counseling with one of our culturally aware and weight-inclusive Diabetes Dietitians today! For additional resources and shownotes, visit diabetesdigital.co/podcast

In today’s podcast episode, we are joined by Constance Brown-Riggs, an award-winning registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator. Constance shares her extensive knowledge on the effectiveness, dosages, and potential side effects of popular supplements like cinnamon, bitter melon, chromium, alpha lipoic acid, and apple cider vinegar for managing diabetes. She also reveals which supplements to avoid and offers her top multivitamin brand recommendation, providing listeners with practical, evidence-based insights on safely incorporating supplements into their diabetes care regimen. In This Episode We’ll Cover:  The effectiveness of popular supplements like cinnamon, bitter melon, chromium, alpha lipoic acid, and apple cider vinegar for managing diabetes The mechanisms of action for these supplements and how they work in the body Recommended dosages for each supplement and the importance of starting with a low dose Potential side effects of these supplements, including liver damage and gastrointestinal issues The importance of consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen Specific recommendations for multivitamin brands and why they are favored The dangers of taking certain supplements for people with diabetes The role of omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium in overall health and diabetes management Our two simple asks to help us continue a free biweekly show: Rate on iTunes or Spotify -  it literally takes two seconds Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes Diabetes & Prediabetes Nutrition Counseling Are you living with diabetes or prediabetes and seeking support from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist covered by insurance? Visit diabetesdigital.co to sign up for personalized, one-on-one nutrition counseling with one of our culturally aware and weight-inclusive Diabetes Dietitians today! For additional resources and shownotes, visit diabetesdigital.co/podcast

In this short and sweet episode, we're bringing you up to speed on some minor changes coming to the podcast. Don't worry, these updates are all about making your listening experience even better! Plus, we're thrilled to share details about some awesome events we're hosting this week that you definitely don't want to miss. Tune in for all the info and get ready for an exciting week ahead! In this episode we'll cover: Episode schedule changes What's coming up on our podcast over the next few months Upcoming free Diabetes Digital events Our two simple asks to help us continue a free weekly show: Rate on iTunes or Spotify -  it literally takes two seconds Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes Diabetes & Prediabetes Nutrition Counseling Are you living with diabetes or prediabetes and seeking support from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist covered by insurance? Visit diabetesdigital.co to sign up for personalized, one-on-one nutrition counseling with one of our culturally aware and weight-inclusive Diabetes Dietitians today!For additional resources and shownotes, visit diabetesdigital.co/podcast

In today’s episode, we welcome Laura Pavlakovich, founder of You're Just My Type. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age four, Laura shares her journey and the mission behind her platform, which started as a photo project and has grown into a thriving community offering support, education, and resources. Laura discusses her mental health challenges, strategies for managing the fear of hypoglycemia, and maintaining a healthy relationship with food. Join us for an inspiring conversation on the emotional and mental aspects of living with type 1 diabetes and the importance of community support. In This Episode We’ll Cover:  Laura’s journey from diagnosis to advocacy Mental health impact of living with type 1 diabetes and Laura's personal experiences Practical tips on how to manage the daily mental and physical challenges of diabetes, including the fear of hypoglycemia. Complexities of maintaining a healthy relationship with food while managing type 1 diabetes The importance of having a community and support system The role of technology, like CGMs, in managing diabetes Laura's vision for expanding her platform to provide support and resources to more people living with type 1 diabetes Our two simple asks to help us continue a free weekly show: Rate on iTunes or Spotify -  it literally takes two seconds Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes Diabetes & Prediabetes Nutrition Counseling Are you living with diabetes or prediabetes and seeking support from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist covered by insurance? Visit diabetesdigital.co to sign up for personalized, one-on-one nutrition counseling with one of our culturally aware and weight-inclusive Diabetes Dietitians today!For additional resources and shownotes, visit diabetesdigital.co/podcast

In today’s episode we explore how to balance blood sugar, and we're excited to welcome Erica Zellner. Erica is a Connecticut-based Clinical Nutritionist and Senior Health Coach with six years of functional nutrition experience. A health coach at Parsley Health, Erica shares her integrative approaches to diabetes management, emphasizing the importance of personalized nutrition, stress reduction, and sleep hygiene. Learn about key nutrients, supplements, and environmental factors to consider, and discover how culturally relevant meals can improve blood sugar control. In This Episode We’ll Cover:  Integrative approaches to diabetes management with personalized nutrition plans Importance of stress management in controlling blood sugar levels Impact of sleep hygiene on glucose metabolism and overall health Significance of culturally relevant foods in managing diabetes Tips for personalizing nutrition to individual preferences and lifestyles Use of supplements like omega-3, vitamin D, chromium, and magnesium Simple, consistent stress reduction practices for managing diabetes Recommendations for improving sleep hygiene and avoiding screens before bed Our two simple asks to help us continue a free weekly show: Rate on iTunes or Spotify -  it literally takes two seconds Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes Diabetes & Prediabetes Nutrition Counseling Are you living with diabetes or prediabetes and seeking support from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist covered by insurance? Visit diabetesdigital.co to sign up for personalized, one-on-one nutrition counseling with one of our culturally aware and weight-inclusive Diabetes Dietitians today!For additional resources and shownotes, visit diabetesdigital.co/podcast

In this episode, the hosts are joined by Fernando Umanzor Guzman, a registered dietitian at Diabetes Digital with a deep understanding of cultural foods, who shares insight on how to meal plan for diabetes. Growing up in a Latin and African immigrant community in Washington D.C., Fernando is passionate about debunking myths surrounding cultural foods and promoting their health benefits. He shares practical insights on flexible meal planning, quick and easy meal ideas, and strategies for maintaining a balanced diet, especially for people with diabetes. Fernando also discusses the importance of incorporating macronutrients and the benefits of using shelf-stable and frozen foods. Whether you're managing diabetes, looking to improve your diet, or curious about cultural foods, this episode offers valuable tips and inspiration. In This Episode We’ll Cover:  • The importance of meal planning for diabetes management and general well-being • How to make meal planning flexible and adaptable for those with busy or unpredictable schedules • How Fernando’s cultural upbringing influenced his approach to nutrition • Misconceptions about cultural foods being unhealthy and how to debunk these myths • Difference between a rigid meal plan and flexible meal planning • Key macronutrients and how to incorporate them effectively into meals • Practical tips for quick and easy meal ideas, including shelf-stable and frozen foods • Strategies for meal planning during special occasions and holidays • Advice for managing diabetes and preventing hypoglycemia through proper meal planning and preparation Our two simple asks to help us continue a free weekly show: 1. Rate on iTunes or Spotify -  it literally takes two seconds 2. Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes Diabetes & Prediabetes Nutrition Counseling Are you living with diabetes or prediabetes and seeking support from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist covered by insurance? Visit diabetesdigital.co to sign up for personalized, one-on-one nutrition counseling with one of our culturally aware and weight-inclusive Diabetes Dietitians today! For additional resources and shownotes, visit diabetesdigital.co/podcast

In this episode, we talk about perimenopause and menopause with Dr. Jordan, Chief Medical Officer at Midi Health. Dr. Jordan leads a team focused on women’s midlife health through Midi, a telehealth platform. We cover what menopause is, its common symptoms, when it usually starts, and how it’s related to impaired glucose tolerance. Dr. Jordan explains Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), discussing its safety, the best time to start, and the risks of waiting. We also look at natural remedies for menopause and how they compare to HRT. For women feeling off around menopausal age, Dr. Jordan offers advice on diagnosis and treatment. She explains the differences between perimenopause and menopause and why doctors may have overlooked menopause basics in the past. We also talk about what to expect when starting HRT, including how soon you might feel better and how long treatment usually lasts. In This Episode We’ll Cover: What menopause is and if all women experience it Common symptoms of menopause and the typical starting age The relationship between impaired glucose tolerance and menopause Safety of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and its historical context The optimal time to start HRT and the risks of delaying treatment The effectiveness of natural remedies for menopause compared to HRT Guidance for women feeling 'off' around menopausal age on diagnosis and treatment Differences between perimenopause and menopause Why menopause basics were historically overlooked by the medical establishment What to expect when starting HRT, including improvement timelines and treatment duration + MUCH MORE! Our two simple asks to help us continue a free weekly show: Rate on iTunes or Spotify - it literally takes two seconds Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes Diabetes & Prediabetes Nutrition Counseling Are you living with diabetes or prediabetes and seeking support from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist covered by insurance? Visit diabetesdigital.co to sign up for personalized, one-on-one nutrition counseling with one of our culturally aware and weight-inclusive Diabetes Dietitians today! For additional resources and shownotes, visit diabetesdigital.co/podcast

In this podcast episode, we chat with Carmelita Lombera, a UC Berkeley graduate and Diabetes Digital Dietitian with a diverse career in health coaching and nutrition, tackling the question: does fruit pose risks for those with diabetes? We dive into the difference between natural fruit sugars and added sugars, stressing the importance of understanding Glycemic Index (GI) and Glycemic Load (GL) for managing blood sugar levels. We will also highlight the benefits of choosing whole fruits over fruit juice when possible. You'll learn practical strategies for including fruits in a diabetes management plan, focusing on portion control, fruit choices, and pairing with proteins or healthy fats. In This Episode We’ll Cover:  Natural sugars in fruits vs. added sugars The difference between Glycemic Index (GI) and Glycemic Load (GL) How the body processes sugar The benefits of fruit consumption for individuals with diabetes Considerations regarding fruit juice for individuals with diabetes How to include fruits and manage blood sugar levels  How much fruit you should be eating in a day Practical tips for incorporating fruits into a diabetes management plan + MUCH MORE!  Our two simple asks to help us continue a free weekly show: Rate on iTunes or Spotify -  it literally takes two seconds Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes Diabetes & Prediabetes Nutrition Counseling Are you living with diabetes or prediabetes and seeking support from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist covered by insurance? Visit diabetesdigital.co to sign up for personalized, one-on-one nutrition counseling with one of our culturally aware and weight-inclusive Diabetes Dietitians today!For additional resources and shownotes, visit diabetesdigital.co/podcast

On today's episode, we are back with Erin Phillips, a registered dietitian and diabetes expert for part two of our discussion on Ozempic. Erin talks on the possibility of using Ozempic for prediabetes and the challenges that arise when its demand is influenced by weight loss trends. She discusses how she handles patient requests regarding the use of Ozempic for weight loss without diabetes, its clinical effectiveness, and its impact on the body image movement. Plus, we talk about our thoughts on the Oprah special! In This Episode We’ll Cover:  The effectiveness of Ozempic for prediabetes or impaired fasting glucose compared to diabetes. Advocacy challenges in securing Ozempic for individuals who genuinely need it, amidst demand for weight loss purposes  Thoughts on Oprah's special Responding to patient requests on the use of Ozempic for weight loss in the absence of diabetes. Ozempic's clinical efficacy and its implications for the body image movement Key takeaways which emphasize the need for  personalized care in diabetes management + MUCH MORE!  Our two simple asks to help us continue a free weekly show: Rate on iTunes or Spotify -  it literally takes two seconds Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes Diabetes & Prediabetes Nutrition Counseling Are you living with diabetes or prediabetes and seeking support from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist covered by insurance? Visit diabetesdigital.co to sign up for personalized, one-on-one nutrition counseling with one of our culturally aware and weight-inclusive Diabetes Dietitians today! For additional resources and shownotes, visit diabetesdigital.co/podcast

In this episode of our podcast, we explore Ozempic and other GLP-1 agonist medications, tracing their journey from diabetes treatments to popular weight loss solutions. We'll examine their effectiveness, differences in dosages, and typical side effects. Our discussion will also cover their impact on diabetes management, specifically how Ozempic influences A1c levels. Joining us is Erin Phillips, a registered dietitian and diabetes expert from Seattle, WA, who specializes in diabetes and eating disorders. Erin advocates for weight-inclusive care and provides clinical consultations to healthcare professionals. Through our conversation, we aim to provide clarity on Ozempic's role in diabetes care and its implications for patients and providers alike. In This Episode We’ll Cover: What Ozempic is and why it's currently making headlines The initial purpose of Ozempic for diabetes management and its shift in use Erin's perspective on recommending Ozempic for people with diabetes Dosing disparities between weight loss and diabetes treatment, addressing concerns about potential side effects Outcomes observed in diabetes management with Ozempic and its typical impact on A1c levels Common side effects encountered in clinical practice and their potential impact on patients' quality of life + MUCH MORE! Our 2 simple asks to help us continue a free weekly show: Rate on iTunes or Spotify -  it literally takes two seconds Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes Erin’s Podcast: https://www.erinphillipsnutrition.com/podcast Informed consent for GLP-1s: https://sizeinclusivemedicine.org/glp1/ Are you living with diabetes or prediabetes and seeking support from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist covered by insurance? Visit DiabetesDigital.co to sign up for personalized, one-on-one nutrition counseling with one of our culturally aware and weight-inclusive Diabetes Dietitians today! For additional resources and shownotes, visit diabetesdigital.co/podcast.

In today's episode, we're joined by Dr. Steve Edelman and Dr. Jeremy Pettus, both endocrinologists who have been living with diabetes themselves since they were 15. They’re the hosts of the podcast Taking Control of Your Diabetes and this episode originally aired on their podcast - we’re sharing here because it was so informative and we hope you enjoy it!  In This Episode We’ll Cover: Challenges individuals with diabetes face when it comes to nutrition  How does someone figure out what is the best way to eat for them? Practical ways for putting together balanced meals for blood sugar management  Overcoming food guilt with diabetes  Striking a balance between honoring cravings for indulgent foods, while still maintaining a diet that supports their diabetes goals + MUCH MORE! Our 2 simple asks to help us continue a free weekly show: Rate on iTunes or Spotify -  it literally takes two seconds Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes For additional resources and shownotes, visit https://diabetesdigital.co/category/podcast/

In today's episode, we're joined again by Isabel Reckson, a Diabetes Digital Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator. Together, we explore the benefits of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) in diabetes management, discussing their real-time tracking and emerging innovations. We address utilization, potential risks, and staying informed, along with financial considerations and insurance coverage. Join us as we uncover the impact of CGMs and diabetes technology, transforming the way we manage diabetes. In This Episode We’ll Cover: Benefits of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) in diabetes management Emerging promising and innovative diabetes technologies Utilization and potential risks of wearable devices and smartphone apps Staying informed about new developments in diabetes technology Financial considerations and insurance coverage for diabetes devices Approaching discussions about diabetes technology with hesitant or older patients Strategies to prevent CGM sensors from detaching during daily activities Guidance for newly diagnosed individuals interested in exploring diabetes technology Addressing concerns about privacy and data security related to diabetes technology + MUCH MORE!  Our 2 simple asks to help us continue a free weekly show: Rate on iTunes or Spotify -  it literally takes two seconds Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes For additional resources and shownotes, visit https://diabetesdigital.co/category/podcast/

In today's episode, we're troubleshooting what to do if you have high fasting blood sugars. Beyond nutrition, factors like physical activity, stress, and illness can all contribute to elevated levels. Whether it's high-carb meals before bed, the dawn phenomenon releasing hormones in the morning, or the Somogyi effect causing rebound spikes, understanding these factors is crucial. Listen as we share some strategies and tips to help you better manage your blood sugar levels.  In This Episode We’ll Cover: Why you might be experiencing high fasting blood sugars  Factors beyond nutrition that influence blood sugar levels, including physical activity, stress, and illness How the dawn phenomenon and Somogyi effect can play a role in high fast blood sugar levels Strategies for management, such as regular monitoring, balanced bedtime snacks, and medication adjustments. The importance of proactive management and seeking support from healthcare providers + MORE!  Our 2 simple asks to help us continue a free weekly show: Rate on iTunes or Spotify -  it literally takes two seconds Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes For additional resources and shownotes, visit https://diabetesdigital.co/category/podcast/

Today, we're diving into how to handle the side effects of metformin for Type 2 diabetes. We'll talk about common issues like upset stomachs and metallic tastes, share practical tips to ease side effect symptoms, and the importance of reaching out to your healthcare team if you're experiencing symptoms. In This Episode We’ll Cover: How to manage metformin side effects for Type 2 diabetes Metformin's role and common prescription for diabetes management  Overview of how metformin works in the body Review of typical side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach ache, loss of appetite, and metallic taste in the mouth How metformin doesn't usually cause low blood sugar but may in combination with other medications The importance of discussing side effects with healthcare providers Four practical tips for managing side effects of metformin + MUCH MORE! Our 2 simple asks to help us continue a free weekly show: Rate on iTunes or Spotify -  it literally takes two seconds Review - if you love the show, please leave a review on iTunes For additional resources and shownotes, visit https://diabetesdigital.co/category/podcast/ or Hydration Podcast Episode  What To Do When You Have Hypoglycemia Podcast Episode 10 Easy Ways To Drink More Water 5 Ways to Hydrate That Aren’t Water