Diabetes and CPAP

Its no big secret that many of the things that lead us to developing diabetes also play a significant role in other health related issues as well. And one of those correlations is shown in how many diabetics are also affected by sleep apnea. In my own case, I was aware that I had, un-diagnosed and untreated, sleep apnea for many years prior to the onset of my type 2 diabetes. But escalating risks, with my diabetes, and cardiac issues, forced me to finally seek help for my sleep apnea, which resulted in my doctor putting me on a CPAP machine.

About a week into my CPAP usage, there was a problem. It wasn't a problem with the use of the machine, or nasal mask, or even dealing with nightly bathroom visits. In fact, I don't believe I have ever had a better night's sleep than these first nights, and I awoke more refreshed and more energized that ever before, with only minimal adjustment issues. So what was the problem you might ask?

The problem, was a software problem. It seems that the SleepMapper software for my Philips Respironics® CPAP machine is only supported for Windows or Mac computers. Which is fine, as long as you are a Philips customer, and own one of those types of computers. But in my case, my computer runs a LINUX operating system, and Philips wasted no time in letting me know that I was 'out of luck' as far as software support goes. (You can see more about this, and my rant about how corporate America treats LINUX users as if they are not important in this blog entry)

Because I do have a fundamental knowledge of computers, and enjoy a good challenge, I set out to attempt to find a solution to using the Philips SleepMapper software with LINUX. And along the way, not only did I discover a solution, I also discovered a much more comprehensive software solution for use with my Philips Respironics® CPAP machine called Sleepyhead. The solution that allows the Windows version of SleepMapper to run in LINUX also allows the Windows version of Sleepyhead to run in LINUX as well. If you are the owner of a Philips Respironics® CPAP machine, and are also the owner of a LINUX computer, feel free to check out my solution on this blog entry.

And if you are a diabetic, you probably already know how important it is to get an adequate amount of high quality of sleep each night. Are you taking the steps to insure that you are getting 8-9 hours of sleep every day? As a diabetic your body needs it's rest to help combat your diabetes. And if you have not been screened for sleep apnea, and have any of these symptoms, you owe it to yourself to seek the appropriate medical advice.

David Jarrett © 4/08/2015

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Premier Diabetes Site thinks we all should use iPhones?

Well over a year ago I contacted dLife and asked about the availability of an Android version of the dLife app, which was only available for the iPhone at that time. 

I received an email reply and was told by dLife that it was being worked on. 

Over a year later, there is still no Android version of the dLife app, and a current article on dLife about mobile apps for diabetes mentions ONLY iOS apps, NOTHING for Android.

So what's up dLife, are diabetics only supposed to be iPhone users?

BTW, for those Android using diabetics out there, there IS an excellent diabetes tracking app available from Medivo called OnTrack Diabetes.

It can be downloaded here on Google Play

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No Sugar Added Chunky Pasta Sauce

Easy No Sugar Added Chunky Pasta Sauce
-Ingredients-
4 Tbsp Olive Oil
3 Tbsp Minced Garlic
2 Tbsp Italian Seasoning
1 Medium Onion Coarsely chopped
1 can (or fresh) mushrooms (optional)
1 to 1-1/2 lbs meat of your choosing
2 28oz cans diced Tomatoes
1 28oz can crushed tomatoes
3 Tbsp Cream/Neufchatel Cheese (optional)

Into a 6 quart saucepan add the olive oil,
italian seasoning, minced garlic, chopped onion,
and meat. (In our house we like diced chicken the best!)
Saute until the meat is done through and through.
Add the diced tomatoes and crushed tomatoes, cover and
simmer on low heat until cooked through. If you prefer
more of a Vodka style saucee, add the Cream/Neufchatel
Cheese and blend in evenly.

Serve over your pasta of choice. For an extra low carb meal,
serve over spaghetti squash or a vegetti style pasta.

This recipe is approximately 1 carb serving per 3/4 cup of sauce.

All logos, trade names, trade marks, and photos of the same belong to their respective owners. The use of such material in this article falls under the Fair Use provisions of intellectual property laws.