In episode 108 of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, host Tavia Vital, RN, CDCES, sits down with author Gary Scheiner to discuss Chapter 9 of Think Like a Pancreas. Together, they take an honest look at the highs and lows that affect everyone living with diabetes and offer practical guidance for handling them safely.
Throughout the conversation, Gary and Tavia emphasize that perfection is not the goal. Mild, infrequent highs and lows are a normal part of life with diabetes but understanding how to respond can make those moments less overwhelming.
Listen to learn why dextrose is often the preferred treatment for hypoglycemia, what to expect after using glucagon, why extreme highs and lows should be rare, and when frequent episodes may be a sign that it is time to reassess your diabetes management plan.
MEET YOUR HOST AND HER GUEST:
Tavia Vital BSN, BA, RN, CDCES is the Director of Intensive Diabetes Management for Integrated Diabetes Services. Tavia is a Registered Nurse, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, and Certified Trainer on most makes/models of insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems. Having lived with type one diabetes for over 40 years, she understands that each person’s experiences and needs are unique.
Gary Scheiner, MS, CDCES is the owner and Clinical Director of Integrated Diabetes Services. He is an award-winning Certified Diabetes Educator, Masters-level Exercise Physiologist and person with type-1 diabetes since 1985. Gary is also actively involved with many diabetes related organizations as a volunteer and clinical advisor.
KEY TAKEAWAYS AND HIGHLIGHTS:
✔️Speed matters when you are low. Consider foods that spike your blood sugar levels.
✔️ Highs and lows are normal, but if you are experiencing continuous high or low blood glucose levels, it is time to speak to someone about making changes in your diabetes management.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
03:57 Even the “Experts” Have Highs and Lows
06:00 How NOT to Treat “Hypos from Hell”
08:47 Why Dextrose
11:50 The Real Dangers of Low Blood Glucose
14:23 What to Expect After Glucagon
16:26 Explaining a High Blood Sugar
18:11 But My Blood Glucose Level is Supposed to Rise
21:40 Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) and Final Takeaways
RESOURCES:
Think Like A Pancreas - 4th edition
https://integrateddiabetes.com/store/think-like-a-pancreas-4th-edition
https://integrateddiabetes.com/ids-packages/
Coping with Burnout in Diabetes Management: Strategies for Success
https://Integrateddiabetesservices.podbean.com/e/coping-with-burnout-in-diabetes-management/
CONNECT WITH US:
🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com
🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook
🔵To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/appointments/ or email info@integrateddiabetes.com
SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW:
If the podcast has helped you to live better with diabetes, please tell someone else how to find it! If you have a question, take a moment and ask! We reply to everyone. And then be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode!
Disclaimer
The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.
