Last December I took a routine blood test for a life insurance policy. When the results came back, my agent told me to see my doctor immediately. Sure enough, my doctor drew a blood sample and informed me that my blood glucose levels were extremely high. I had Type 2 diabetes. The strange thing was that I really felt fine. I didn’t realize that I was overlooking some of the common warning signs:

• Excessive Thirst – This is Texas. It gets hot, you get thirsty. I drank a lot of water and couldn’t quench my thirst at times. I also made frequent trips to the bathroom. Frequent urination is another warning sign.
   
• Sudden Weight Loss – I lost over 60 pounds in 1 ½ years. I congratulated myself for becoming more active and making better eating decisions. I didn’t know that sudden weight loss is also a symptom of diabetes.
   
• Other Symptoms of Diabetes – Blurry vision, dry feet, irritability, increased fatigue, and extreme hunger are also symptoms.

If you have any of these symptoms, consult with your physician. It may save your life! Most people don’t know they have diabetes. For more information about diabetes, visit www.diabetes.org

Diabetes is a national epidemic. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness and limb amputation. Foot health is extremely important with diabetes. With poor circulation in the smaller blood vessels, it becomes much harder for wounds to heal. A small cut, blister or insect bite can become infected and turn into a serious problem within 48 hours. Check your feet daily, keep them moisturized and look for any signs of rubbing, irritation or blistering. If a problem develops, see your physician immediately.

Lynco^® Conform Orthotics

Copper Sole™ Socks

Apex 1260^® Diabetic Shoe

Protect Your Feet.
Never Go Barefoot!

• Lynco^® Conform Orthotics – Designed to protect and comfort the diabetic and hyper-sensitive, arthritic foot. These tri-density orthotics have a soft Plastazote^® top layer that molds and conforms to the shape of your foot, preventing irritation, rubbing and “hot spots”.
   
• Copper Sole™ Socks – The healthiest sock you will ever wear. Copper Sole Technology has been lab tested and clinically proven to help prevent Bacteria, Fungi and Odor, as well as improve skin texture and appearance. Copper ions are embedded in the CUPRON™ yarn to eliminate 99.9% of the Bacteria and Fungi in the sock. Odors are reduced and your feet will look and feel healthier. These socks also have hand-linked toe seams, extra cushioning and non-binding yarn that doesn’t restrict circulation.
   
• Apex^® 1260 Black Double Strap Oxford – One of the most popular diabetic shoes on the market. This shoe is fully lined with soft Plastazote^® material that protects the foot against rubbing and blistering. It has extra depth and a removable/replaceable Plastazote^® insole.

If you are experiencing severe diabetic problems such as neuropathy, foot ulceration or charcot foot, please consult with your physician for the best footwear recommendation and treatment options. We can also refer you to health professionals that specialize in complicated foot issues.

The good news is that diabetes is treatable. My blood glucose levels are in a very healthy range now. The combination of diet, exercise and staying on my medications is making a big difference. There is still room for improvement, but this is a challenge I will take on for the rest of my life. In fact, I haven’t felt this good in a long time!
 

The popular Freedom exercise shoe is now available in gray suede with gray mesh. $199.95

This soft brown loafer has a soft roomy toe box and a higher heel counter for added stability. $199.95