The Illusion of Glucose Control

In Episode 40 of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, Riva Greenberg joins host Gary Scheiner to discuss, what she feels is the illusion of glucose control. Together, they explore the biological limitations of controlling blood sugar, the psychological impacts of diabetes terminology, and the importance of influencing rather than controlling glucose levels. Riva, author and person living with type 1 diabetes for over 50 years, shares her personal experiences and strategies for managing diabetes, emphasizing the significance of self-compassion and the acceptance of life's unpredictability in diabetes management. Meet Your Host and His Guest Gary Scheiner, MS, CDCES, is the award-winning author of Think Like a Pancreas as well as numerous other books that act as guides for people living with diabetes. A Certified Diabetes Educator, Masters-level Exercise Physiologist, and person living with type 1 diabetes since 1985, Gary was named 2014 Diabetes Educator of the Year by the American Association of Diabetes Educators. He trained at the Joslin Diabetes Center and has dedicated his career to helping others live well with diabetes through education, advocacy, and innovation. Riva Greenberg is a multi-time author, columnist, and blogger. She has lived with type 1 diabetes for over 50 years and has presented her “Flourishing Approach” to healthcare professionals and people with diabetes all over the world. What you’ll learn: Why Riva feels that diabetes cannot be controlled. How the term 'control' can create unrealistic expectations and guilt. Why some feel that words used by healthcare providers can impact patients' mental health. The importance of self-compassion in managing diabetes. The importance of quality of life when it comes to diabetes. Chapters 00:16 Introduction and disclaimer 01:38 Meet Riva Greenberg 04:21 Why diabetes and blood sugars cannot be controlled 07:46 What influences blood glucose levels 09:34 Why do doctors so often use the terms like "control" with their patients with diabetes? 11:17 How words impact the psychological aspect of diabetes care 14:51 The pitfall of perfection in diabetes management 20:23 How is technology influencing the perception of diabetes management? 25:07 The value of relaxation in your care 26:40 Why Gary feels quality of life is so important in his diabetes care 27:25 The pressure that comes from thinking that diabetes shouldn't stop you   Resources Mentioned https://diabetesstories.com https://www.amazon.com/stores/Riva-Greenberg/author/B001TNK2BE?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true Bright Spots and Landmines by Adam Brown The Discovery of Insulin by Michael Bliss Connect with Us 🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com 🔵 To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/ , or email [email protected] 🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook   Subscribe and Review If you enjoyed this episode subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode. Also, leave a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with others who will enjoy it as well! Listen to more great episodes like this The How and Why of MDI 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.