Diabetes Terms
What is the medical term for high blood sugar?
Hypoglycemia or Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia
True or False: The most important part of healthy eating is portion control.
False. Portion control may be important, but we want to put a greater focus choosing appropriate food groups rather than eating less.
True or False: If you have diabetes, it is recommended to have lab work done every year.
False: it is recommended to have your HbA1C completed every 3-6 months.
True or False: High blood sugars can lead to infections in the gums and bones that hold teeth in place?
True. High blood sugars increase your risk for gingivitis (an inflammatory condition of the gums surrounding the teeth), and periodontitis (the destruction of the ligament, bone and soft tissues that support the teeth).
How many minutes of physical activity per week is recommended for someone living with diabetes?
60 minutes, 120 minutes, or 150 minutes
150 minutes per week of moderate intense activity
Which one of these organs are involved with diabetes?
Appendix, Lungs, or Pancreas
Pancreas. This organ is responsible for controlling blood sugar levels.
Name one example of a food that won't raise blood sugars.
Any protein food or vegetable (ex, celery, lettuce, broccoli, chicken, beans, peanut butter, etc.)
What is the HbA1C target to minimize the risk of diabetes complications?
7%, 10%, or 12%
7% or less
How often is it recommended to have an eye exam if you live with diabetes?
3-6 months, 1-2 years, or 3-5 years
Every 1-2 years to check for the presence of retinopathy (disease of the small blood vessels in the back of the eye).
What would be the best snack to carry during exercise in case of a low blood sugar (< 4.0 mmol/L)?
Carrot sticks, String cheese, or 10-15 Skittles?
Examples of foods for low blood sugar include:
- 10-15 Skittles
- 2 Rolls of rocket candies
- 2/3 cup of juice/pop/gatorade
- 1 tablespoon of sugar mixed with water
- 1 tablespoon of honey/syrup/jam
- 4 Dex tabs
Is a blood sugar of 3.5 mmol/L considered low or high blood sugar?
Low. Any blood sugar less than 4.0 mmol/L is a low blood sugar.
A good strategy for healthy eating is to fill half your plate with which food group?
Vegetables
What is the target blood pressure for someone with diabetes?
< 100/70 mmHg, < 130/80 mmHg, or < 150/95 mmHg
Less than 130/80 mmHg
Name two potential long-term complications of diabetes.
The most severe long-term complications of diabetes may include:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Chronic kidney disease
- Blindness
- Erectile dysfunction
- Nerve damage
Name one reliable resource available to help people learn about diabetes.
- Diabetes Canada website
- Diabetes Educator
- Physician
Which lab test provides you with your average blood sugar control over the last 2-3 months?
HbA1c, Potassium, or Urea
HbA1c aka hemoglobin A1c
Which major nutrient raises blood sugar?
Carbohydrates, Fat, or Protein
Carbohydrates is the "umbrella" term for sugar and starch which both raise blood sugars.
At what age does your risk for diabetes increase?
40 years old
The main cause of diabetes complications is what?
High blood sugars
What is one thing you can do to help manage blood sugars if you live with diabetes?
- Follow a healthy eating pattern
- Exercise
- Take insulin/medication as prescribed
- Manage other health conditions
- Test blood sugar
What is the hormone injection that all people with type 1 diabetes and some people with type 2 diabetes require?
Insulin
Which of the following foods contain the least amount of salt?
Bologna, Ramen noodles, or Canned tuna
Canned Tuna. Deli meats and "ready-to-eat" meals are some of the largest contributors to our salt intake.
What is the target fasting blood sugar for most people with diabetes?
4-7 mmol/L. The target for 2 hours after a meal is 5-10 mmol/L.
Name two things you can do to help prevent foot problems.
- Inspect feet daily
- Wash and dry your feet regularly
- Maintain your toenails
- Look for colour changes
- Look for signs of infection
When you are sick, what is one thing you can do to manage your blood sugar?
- Test blood sugar more often
- Stay hydrated
- Continue to eat regularly
- Take medications as directed by physician/pharmacist (some may need to be temporarily stopped)
- Monitor unusual symptoms