7 Reasons why you shouldn't smoke if you have Diabetes
Articles - Diabetes
Tuesday, 10 May 2011 14:56
AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Here are 7 reasons why mixing diabetes with smoking is a very bad idea:

1)  You are more likely to get nerve damage (neuropathy).  This is because smoking affects your blood circulation and that in turn means your nerve endings are not getting the nutrients they need.  If this happens to the nerves in your feet it could lead to sores and infections and, if not taken care of properly, even amputation.

2)  There is an increased risk – double in fact -of you getting limited mobility in your joints. It's no fun trying to bend, climb stairs or lift something when you have a painful joint.

3)  Because of smoking you could develop kidney disease.

4)  When you smoke your blood pressure increases.  Increased blood pressure creates a real risk of heart disease.

5)  Research has shown that diabetics who smoke increase, 3-fold, the risk of dying of heart (cardiovascular) disease.

6)  By smoking you increase your blood-sugar levels.  This makes it more difficult to control your diabetes because your glucose levels  could be fluctuating quite dramatically.  This, in turn, leads to other problems.

7)  And it also increases your cholesterol levels, which increases the risk of a heart attack.


In fact smoking - and passive smoking - have a seriously detrimental effect on the ABC's of diabetes management:

A - A1C - the measurement of your blood glucose over a 3-month period
B - your blood pressure, which should be below 130/80
C - your cholesterol levels.  Cholesterol levels include LDL, HDL and triglycerides.  Your LDL should be below 100.  HDL levels should be above 40 (for men) and above 50 (for women).  Tryglycerides should be below 150.

And, of course, on top of all that there's the proven risk of cancer!
 

Qualify for a New Meter

Accu-Chek Aviva Glucose Meter

Diabetes Testing Supplies
at LITTLE or NO COST*
for Insurance Beneficiaries!†

The cost of your meter, test strips & lancets may be covered by Insurance.†

Fill out this form
or call 1-866-422-4866
to see if you qualify today.

First Name*

Enter first name
Last Name*

Enter last name
Phone*

Enter phone number
Email Address

Please valid email
Do you have Insurance?




Invalid Input

By submitting this form I authorize a provider of diabetes supplies to contact me by telephone. Please be assured that we value and protect your privacy. †For those who qualify. Co-Pays and Deductibles may apply.
Copyright © 2012. Glucose Meter Comparison. A service of The Diabetes Network

*No Cost meter offer applies to qualified beneficiaries with diabetes and dependent on enrollment in home delivery program. Terms and conditions apply. The information presented here is meant to be strictly for informational and educational purposes. It is not to be considered as advice, including medical advice, from GlucoseMeterComparison.com, or any associated company. None of the information is intended to serve as a substitute for diagnosis from, or consultation with, a health care professional. Always consult your doctor regarding any medical questions that you have, as well as before starting or changing your exercise or diet program, and before adjusting any medication. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.