The Diabetic Toolbox

Welcome to The Diabetic Toolbox!

In this episode, your host, Renee Reid, emotional eating and diabetes lifestyle coach and yoga teacher, breaks down the role of protein in managing diabetes. You’ll learn how much protein you need, whether 30 grams is too much, and how to incorporate it into your meals to stabilize blood sugar and keep hunger at bay.

We’re on a mission to end type 2 diabetes one family at a time, and today’s conversation is a step toward empowering you with practical tools for managing your health.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

The importance of protein in managing blood sugar levels.

How much protein you need daily (hint: it’s not one-size-fits-all!). Whether 30 grams of protein per meal is too much (spoiler: it’s not!).

Tips to balance your meals with protein, healthy fats, and fiber for better diabetes management.

Resources and Special Offers:

In this episode, host Renee Reid dives into an often-overlooked part of our wellness journey—our shoes! Whether you’re a walker or a runner, the right pair of shoes is essential for maintaining comfort, support, and preventing injury. Renee shares key signs to watch for that indicate it’s time to replace your shoes, along with practical tips to extend their lifespan.

Plus, as we celebrate Diabetes Awareness Month, Renee has some special offers to help you stay on track with your diabetes journey.

Key Takeaways:

Why It’s Important to Replace Shoes Regularly:

Wearing out shoes can lead to discomfort and potential injury, which is especially important to avoid if you are on a diabetes or wellness journey.

Top Signs It’s Time for a New Pair:

Mileage: Shoes typically last 300–500 miles.

Worn-Out Soles: Check for bald spots on the tread.

Unusual Discomfort: New aches or pains in your feet, legs, or back may indicate it’s time for a replacement.

Lost Cushioning: Press the midsole; if it feels hard, the cushioning may be worn out.

Visible Damage: Holes, tears, or cracks mean it’s time to retire them.

How to Extend the Life of Your Shoes with Inserts:

Renee shares a step-by-step guide to choosing and adding inserts to your shoes, which can improve support and add months to their lifespan.

Take Care of Your Feet to Support Your Wellness Goals:

Proper shoes and inserts help you stay active and support your overall well-being.

Special Offers for Diabetes Awareness Month:

Emotional Eating Book Bundle: Get Emotional Eating and Diabetes: Taking Back Control for 20% off. This guide provides strategies to break free from emotional eating, create a personalized plan, and confidently manage diabetes.

Free Resource - “Is Your Hunger Emotional?” Quiz: Take our free quiz to learn how emotions might be influencing your eating habits. Plus, you’ll get a free copy of Renee's mini eBook, Relax and Recharge: Easy-to-Implement Tools to Help You Manage Your Sleep for Better Health and Less Stress.

Support Our Mission at Renee & Ruby’s:

Explore the It’s Not Over Until I Win collection for gifts that inspire persistence and resilience. Every purchase helps fund The Diabetic Toolbox and its mission to end type 2 diabetes one family at a time.

Next Episode Preview: Join us tomorrow for a deep dive into how much protein your body really needs to help manage blood sugar levels. You won’t want to miss it!

Resources Mentioned:

In this episode of The Diabetic Toolbox, host Renee Reid dives into the transformative power of using food as fuel and medicine rather than for comfort. By shifting our approach to eating, we can take a big step toward better diabetes management, improved energy, and long-lasting health. Renee shares insights on seeing food as a tool to nourish and support the body instead of a source of emotional comfort and provides three practical tips to help listeners make this change in their lives.

Key Points

See Food as Fuel

Balanced meals with fiber, protein, and healthy fats provide steady energy and help prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes.

Choosing food based on how it nourishes can keep cravings in check.

Use Food as Medicine

Food can play a role in reducing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity, making it easier to manage diabetes.

Adding non-starchy veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains can make a big impact on your health.

Practice Mindful Eating to Manage Emotions

Emotional eating can lead to blood sugar challenges, but mindful eating helps break this cycle.

Checking your feelings before eating can help you make more intentional choices.

Resources Mentioned

It’s Not Over Until I Win Collection

In this episode of The Diabetic Toolbox, host Renee Reid dives into an essential, yet often overlooked, topic—self-care for men. We break down the common misconceptions that keep men from prioritizing their health, and we offer practical, achievable steps to integrate self-care into even the busiest lives. Tune in as Renee guides listeners through the powerful ways men can regain control of their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Whether you’re managing diabetes, supporting someone who is, or just looking to make positive lifestyle changes, this episode provides valuable tips to get started on the path to better health.

Topics Covered:

Myth-Busting Self-Care

Why self-care isn’t “just for women” and how this misconception affects men’s health.

The importance of balancing self-care with other responsibilities without guilt.

3 Simple Ways Men Can Prioritize Self-Care:

Exercise – Practical tips on fitting physical activity into your routine to reduce stress and boost energy.

Mental Health Care – How to make mental wellness a priority through mindfulness, setting boundaries, and seeking support.

Mindful Eating – Why paying attention to what you eat can positively impact your mood, energy, and diabetes management.

Weekly, Monthly, & Yearly Self-Care Checklist

We share a checklist to make self-care easier and more routine. Covering physical, mental, and emotional health tasks, this checklist ensures you can stay on track without feeling overwhelmed.

Resources Mentioned:

Host: Renee Reid, Emotional Eating and Diabetes Lifestyle Coach, Yoga Teacher

Welcome to The Diabetic Toolbox

The Diabetic Toolbox is on a mission to end type 2 diabetes one family at a time. Today, host Renee Reid shares a holiday recipe that’s diabetes-friendly, meatless, and brimming with festive flavors – Stuffed Acorn Squash with Wild Rice and Cranberries.

Episode Highlights:

• Why This Recipe?

Discover the benefits of this wholesome, plant-based dish. With fiber, antioxidants, and heart-healthy fats, it supports blood sugar management and provides holiday flavor without the heaviness.

• Ingredients and Steps

A rundown of key ingredients: acorn squash, wild rice, vegetable broth, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and herbs like rosemary and sage. Renee guides you through the simple steps to roast, fill, and bake this delicious dish.

• Versatility & Leftovers

Tips on adapting the filling and storing leftovers to enjoy later. Plus, creative ideas to use any extra wild rice mixture.

Special Offers for Diabetes Awareness Month

Welcome to The Diabetic Toolbox!

In today’s episode, why a Vegetarian Diet is a Game-Changer for Diabetes Management, Renee Reid—emotional eating and diabetes lifestyle coach and yoga teacher—takes us through the incredible health benefits of incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet. We’ll explore how a vegetarian approach can help stabilize blood sugar, support heart health, manage weight, and even improve gut health. Whether you’re ready to go fully vegetarian or want to try more plant-forward meals, this episode has actionable insights and easy tips to support your journey!

Episode Highlights:

Why a Vegetarian Diet?

Blood Sugar Control: Plant-based foods are high in fiber, which helps prevent blood sugar spikes and keeps energy levels steady.

Heart Health: Vegetarian diets are naturally lower in saturated fats and cholesterol, which reduces the risk of heart disease, a key consideration for those managing diabetes.

Weight Management: Whole grains, vegetables, and plant proteins help with weight control, vital for diabetes management.

Additional Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet:

Improved Gut Health: Prebiotic-rich foods like vegetables and grains support healthy gut bacteria, which aids digestion and metabolism.

Reduced Inflammation: Plant-based diets are high in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and support overall health.

3-Day Vegetarian Meal Plan:

Day 1: Oatmeal with chia seeds and berries, chickpea, avocado salad, and quinoa-stuffed peppers.

Day 2: Greek yogurt with flaxseeds and apple, lentil soup with whole-grain toast, and tofu veggie stir-fry.

Day 3: Spinach smoothie, veggie wrap with hummus, and sweet potato black bean chili.

Taking Control of Emotional Eating

In this episode, host Renee Reid, emotional eating and diabetes lifestyle coach and yoga teacher shares her transformation journey through the power of one small habit: walking. Renee dives into the profound changes she experienced in her physical, spiritual, and emotional health over 30, 60, and 90 days by focusing on daily walking. If you’re overwhelmed by the idea of making big changes, this episode will inspire you to take a simpler, more achievable approach to wellness.

Episode Highlights

• Physical Transformation: Walking daily improved Renee’s energy, sleep, and endurance.

• Spiritual Awakening: Discovering peace and clarity by turning daily walks into meditative practice.

• Emotional Growth: Using walking to process emotions, reduce stress, and find calm in the chaos.

• The Power of Consistency: Why small, daily actions can lead to lasting transformation.

Free Resources Mentioned

• Is Your Hunger Emotional? Quiz

Understand how emotions may impact your eating habits with our quick quiz. Download it today and receive a free copy of Renee’s mini eBook, Relax and Recharge: Easy-to-Implement Tools to Help You Manage Your Sleep for Better Health and Less Stress—an essential guide for better sleep and stress management.

In this episode of The Diabetic Toolbox, host Renee Reid, emotional eating and diabetes lifestyle coach and yoga teacher, explores a topic many of us struggle with—self-sabotage. Discover the three common ways self-sabotage shows up, how it affects your diabetes management, and practical strategies for breaking free of these habits to stay on track with your health goals.

From addressing the fear of failure to managing emotional eating and letting go of perfection, Renee shares insights and actionable tips that can make a real difference in your journey toward better health. In honor of Diabetes Awareness Month, you’ll hear about a special offer on the It’s Not Over Until I Win collection from Renee & Ruby’s—a perfect gift for yourself or a loved one!

Key Points in This Episode:

1. Fear of Failure - How it holds you back from starting new routines and tips to overcome it.

2. Emotional Eating - Why stress or anxiety can lead to unhealthy eating patterns and tools to help you manage it.

3. All-or-Nothing Mindset - How perfectionism impacts diabetes management and ways to embrace consistency over perfection.

Special Offers and Resources:

Welcome to The Diabetic Toolbox
In this episode, Renee Reid, emotional eating and diabetes lifestyle coach and yoga teacher, discusses why the fight against diabetes matters more than ever. With over 96 million American adults affected by prediabetes, diabetes has a ripple effect on families and communities. But here’s the good news—many lifestyle choices can help prevent or manage this condition!

Episode Highlights:

Simple Roasted Eggplant Recipe & Diabetes-Friendly Benefits

Episode Summary:
In this short and flavorful episode, host Renee Reid, emotional eating and diabetes lifestyle coach shares an easy and diabetes-friendly recipe for roasted eggplant—perfect for Meatless Monday! Packed with fiber and antioxidants, eggplant is an ideal ingredient for those managing diabetes, offering blood sugar stability and heart health benefits.

Renee walks you through this quick recipe and explains how eggplant can support your wellness goals.

Episode Highlights:

• Why Eggplant? Discover how eggplant’s high fiber and antioxidant content make it a fantastic choice for a diabetes-friendly diet.
• Simple Recipe: Learn to make a delicious roasted eggplant dish with just four ingredients in under 30 minutes.
• Extra Wellness Tips: Learn how to add this recipe to your meal prep routine for even easier, healthier meals throughout the week.
• Visit the Blog: For full details on this recipe and more insights into the benefits of eggplant, check out the full blog post on The Diabetic Toolbox. [Link in the show notes]

Special Offer:
In honor of Diabetes Awareness Month, enjoy 20% off Renee & Ruby’s It’s Not Over Until I Win collection! From inspiring mugs to cozy jackets, each item is a reminder to keep going strong. Your purchase supports The Diabetic Toolbox’s mission to provide accessible wellness resources for the diabetes community. Visit Renee & Ruby’s today to find something inspiring! [Link in the show notes]

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Navigating Buffets as an Emotional Eater

Welcome to The Diabetic Toolbox! 🎙️

In this episode, host Renee Reid, emotional eating and diabetes lifestyle coach, shares practical tips on navigating buffets without falling into the emotional eating trap—especially when managing diabetes.

If buffets have been a challenge for you in the past, you’re not alone! This episode has strategies to help you enjoy your meal mindfully, stay in control, and avoid overeating. Whether dining out or hosting a large meal at home, these tips support your diabetes management and overall wellness.

1. Setting an Intention – Planning your meal and setting mindful goals before stepping into the buffet line.

2. Surveying the Options – Take a buffet tour before filling your plate to prioritize healthier choices.

3. Self-Compassion – If you slip up, forgive yourself and move on.

In this episode, I break down everything you need to know about our upcoming course, which kicks off on September 1st. If you struggle with emotional eating or are looking for a structured plan to support your diabetes management, this course is tailored just for you!

Here’s what you can expect from the challenge:

Daily Motivational Emails: Each day, you’ll receive an email packed with insights on emotional eating and diabetes management, plus daily journal prompts and practical tips to keep you on track.

14-Day Walking Plan: Boost your energy and support your health goals with our daily walking plan, featuring everything from brisk walks to interval training.

14-Day Mediterranean Diet Plan: Enjoy a delicious, balanced meal plan with easy-to-follow Mediterranean-inspired recipes that nourish your body and satisfy your taste buds.

Joining this challenge is a proactive step towards better health and emotional balance. Share this episode with someone you care about, and let’s embark on this journey together. I’m here to support you every step of the way!

Don’t miss our next episode, where we’ll discuss what to do when you feel like giving up. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.

Bye for now!

With Peace & Love,

Renee

In our latest episode of The Diabetic Toolbox podcast, we delve into the power of calmness and resilience, crucial for managing diabetes and overall well-being. Here's a quick summary of what we discussed:

Affirmation: "My soul remains calm."

Quote for Today: "I fight for my health every day in ways that most people don't understand. I'm not lazy. I'm a warrior." – Unknown.

We explored how cultivating inner peace empowers us to face daily challenges gracefully. One effective way to achieve this is through deep belly breathing. Here's a quick guide to get you started:

1. Find a Comfortable Position: Sit or lie comfortably, ensuring your back is straight and your shoulders are relaxed.

2. Place Your Hands: Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.

3. Inhale Deeply: Take a slow, deep breath through your nose, allowing your belly to rise as you fill your lungs with air.

4. Exhale Slowly: Breathe through your mouth, letting your belly fall gently.

5. Repeat: Continue this pattern for 5-10 minutes, focusing on the rise and fall of your belly with each breath.

Incorporating this simple practice into your daily routine can help you maintain a sense of calm and strengthen your resilience.

Take Action Today:

In this episode of The Diabetic Toolbox, emotional eating and diabetes lifestyle coach Renee Reid shares her journey of embracing her body after a hysterectomy. Renee discusses the physical and emotional changes post-surgery and offers practical strategies for self-compassion, positive body image, and self-care. Tune in for an empowering discussion on navigating body acceptance and celebrating your unique journey.

Announcements:

Podcast Episode: Busting Myths About Diabetes

Hosted by: Renee Reid, Diabetes Lifestyle Coach and Yoga Teacher

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Diabetic Toolbox, we tackle seven common myths about diabetes that often lead to misconceptions and misinformation. Join me as we debunk these myths and provide the facts you need to manage diabetes effectively.

Episode Highlights:

Myth 1: Overeating Sugar Causes Diabetes

Fact: Sugar alone does not cause diabetes.

Details: A high-sugar diet can contribute to obesity, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, but sugar itself is not the direct cause. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition, and type 2 diabetes is influenced by genetics and lifestyle factors.

Myth 2: Only Overweight People Get Diabetes

Fact: Anyone can develop diabetes, regardless of weight.

Details: Being overweight is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, but it’s not the only factor. Type 1 diabetes affects people of all sizes, and many people with type 2 diabetes are at a healthy weight.

Myth 3: Diabetes Is Caused by Eating Carbs

Fact: Carbohydrates are a necessary part of a balanced diet.

Details: Managing the type and amount of carbohydrates is key for people with diabetes. Poor dietary choices can contribute to the risk, but carbs are not the cause.

Myth 4: People with Diabetes Can't Eat Sweets

Fact: People with diabetes can enjoy sweets in moderation.

Details: Monitoring blood sugar levels and managing portion sizes are crucial. With a mindful approach, special occasions and treats can still be enjoyed.

Myth 5: You’ll Know If You Have Diabetes Because of Symptoms

Fact: Many people with type 2 diabetes have no symptoms for years.

Details: Regular check-ups and blood tests are essential for early detection and management. Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision.

Myth 6: Diabetes Is Not a Serious Disease

Fact: Diabetes is a serious condition that requires proper management.

Details: Without proper care, diabetes can lead to complications like heart disease, kidney failure, and nerve damage. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and medication adherence are vital.

Myth 7: People with Diabetes Can't Exercise

Fact: Regular exercise is beneficial for people with diabetes.

Details: Exercise helps manage blood sugar levels and overall health. A mix of aerobic exercises and strength training is recommended, but always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new regimen.

Announcements:

Understanding and Managing Body Grief

Hosted by: Renee Reid, Emotional Eating Diabetes Lifestyle Coach and Yoga Teacher

Mission: To end type 2 diabetes one family at a time

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Episode Summary:

In this solo episode, Renee Reid dives deep into the concept of body grief—what it is, how to recognize it, and effective strategies to manage it. She shares her experiences with body grief and provides practical tips to help listeners navigate their emotional journey. Understanding and addressing body grief is crucial for maintaining overall well-being and achieving wellness goals.

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Key Takeaways:

1. What is Body Grief?

• Body grief is the emotional pain and distress we feel when our bodies change in ways we don't expect or want.

2. Recognizing the Signs of Body Grief:

• Sadness and Mourning

• Frustration and Anger

• Avoidance

• Social Withdrawal

• Comparison

3. Strategies to Manage Body Grief:

• Acknowledge Your Feelings

• Seek Support

• Practice Self-Compassion

• Focus on What You Can Do

• Create New Rituals

• Educate Yourself

• Connect with Others

4. Importance of Dealing with Body Grief:

• Mental and Emotional Well-being

• Physical Health

• Social Relationships

• Personal Growth

• Achievement of Wellness Goals

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Announcements:

1. Free Podcast Reference Guide:

• Make sure to download our free Podcast Reference Guide. This guide, packed with tips and resources to support your journey, will help you get the most out of each episode.

I'm thrilled to announce our latest episode of The Diabetic Toolbox podcast, where our mission is to end type 2 diabetes one family at a time. This week, we're launching a new series called "Sunday Inspiration," I can't wait to share it with you.

New Episode: Sunday Inspiration - "I Call Upon My Inner Strength"

In this episode, we explore an affirmation from our book, You Are Stronger Than You Think: Affirmations to Heal Your Mind, Body, and Spirit. Today's affirmation is titled "I Call Upon My Inner Strength."

Here's a sneak peek at what you'll hear:

• Overcoming doubts and fears
• Practicing self-care
• Thinking positively
• Learning from mishaps
• Letting go of the past
• Staying motivated
• Asking for help
• Daily commitment to courage and wisdom

Journal Prompt:

What phrase can you repeat to yourself this week to remind you of your inner strength?

Exciting Announcements!

Before you dive into the episode, I have some exciting announcements for you:

Hello Friends, I'm excited to announce a brand-new episode of The Diabetic Toolbox podcast, where our Mission is to end type 2 diabetes one family at a time.

I delve into a crucial topic: How to Help a Chronically Ill Family Member or Friend. Living with a chronic illness can be incredibly challenging, and knowing how to offer support can make a significant difference.

Here's a sneak peek of what you can expect:

• What To Say
• How to Handle Canceled Plans
• The Power of Listening
• Offering Practical Support
• Resources and Additional Tips

Are you eager to better support a loved one living with a chronic illness? We've got you covered! Our latest podcast episode is packed with compassionate advice and practical tips to help you make a real difference. You can listen to the complete podcast or read the blog by clicking the link below this video or heading to TheDiabeticToolbox.com.

But wait, there's more! Don't forget to download the free reference guide for this episode. It has all the tips we discussed, plus valuable resource links to help you navigate this journey.

I would love to hear from you. Don't forget to comment, subscribe, and share this episode with you; love, until next time, my friends, be safe and stay healthy!

Hello, my friends. On today's show, we will discuss the pros and cons of using calorie counting to lose weight and manage blood sugar.

You'll learn:

• What is calorie counting?
• What's included in creating an effective program?
• The pros and cons of calorie counting.
• The benefits to folks diagnosed with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.

Calorie counting can be a powerful tool in managing blood sugar levels and achieving weight loss goals. Still, it's essential to approach it mindfully and be aware of its potential drawbacks. Balancing precision with flexibility, focusing on nutrient-rich foods, and being mindful of mental health are crucial considerations when incorporating calorie counting into one's lifestyle.

Resources:

Hello friends, welcome to another season of The Diabetic Toolbox; in today's episode, we're discussing the importance of maintaining dental health. Oral hygiene does more than give you a pretty smile and fresh breath. Healthy teeth and gums can help prevent serious health issues like diabetes and heart conditions.   In this episode, you will learn how:

• How your dental health affects your heart health and diabetes.
• The best brushing techniques.

What is good for your teeth and gums is suitable for your whole body. You will be protecting your smile and overall health.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

Hello friends,

On today's show, we are talking about diabetes, stress, and alcohol. Now these three things have a very complicated relationship, and while many of us use alcohol as a way to manage our stress and make ourselves feel better, drinking too much can actually increase your risk of anxiety and depression. Tune in to today's show as we discuss how you can manage your stress without drinking, and if you do drink, how to do so that it does not interfere with your ability to manage your diabetes.

Don't forget to share this episode with someone you love,

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

Hello, my friends,

Can you believe we are heading towards the end of the year? You still have time if you have not met your health goal or any goal you want to accomplish by the end of the year. Today's show will discuss how you can create a plan to accomplish one fantastic goal or your list by December 31st of this year. I am sharing my two-part plan to help you stay focused and keep the overwhelm at bay.

Please share this episode with someone you love.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

Hello my friends,

Today on the show, we are talking about the importance of incorporating spirituality into our wellness journey. Including spirituality is part of the whole-person approach to healing, meaning we don't just focus on the disease but on quality of life. Spirituality is not about going to an institution, but about deepening your faith so that you do not feel so alone when things get hard.

If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, disconnection, or anger that comes with managing a chronic illness, I hope today's episode will help you to expand your focus and begin the process of showing yourself some compassion.

You will learn some tools to help you start the process of building a spiritual practice.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

Hello, my friends. I am back with new podcast episodes, and I can honestly say that I have missed you all terribly. Thank you to those who reached out to check on me; your kindness will not be forgotten.

On today's show, we are talking about when you should see a doctor before starting a new exercise program. I know we have all heard this before, but how many of us do it before we decide to take up walking or pickleball? From my experiences and speaking with clients and the dynamic folks inside our Facebook group, I know many of us do not heed this advice. Today, we will discuss when to see a doctor before starting a new workout program. Walking is a safe activity for most folk. Still, even with this gentle and restorative practice, it's essential to get the okay from your doctor if any of the situations we discuss in today's episode apply to you.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Hello friends,

Hello friends,

I know how hard it can be to deal with a chronic illness day in and day out. Today, I want to offer you some encouragement if you are thinking about quitting or giving up on yourself. Because, my friend, you must begin again for your family, friends, and community, all of whom depend upon you getting well. But the most crucial reason you must start again is for yourself because you are too important to lose.

When you listen to the episode, you are going to learn how to reconnect with your "why" This will keep you going when things get hard. How to set small goals, remove barriers, and ask for help. Quitting is not an option; you can find the courage to start again somewhere inside you. And, if you still need help, you can borrow some courage from me; I am only a DM or email away. You can contact me at info@thediabetictoolbox.com

Please share this episode with someone you love,

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

Hello friends,

Do you work at a desk for eight hours or more each day? If you answered yes, and you have been diagnosed with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, listen to today's episode for tip on how you can take better care of yourself and still be productive. You are your best advocate, and sitting for long periods of time is a real health hazard that could negatively affect your health.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

Hello, my friends,

In today's episode, we are talking about the four health screenings that every man over 50 should include in the annual or semi-annual check-up.

Hello friends, I thought I would weigh in on diabetes/weight loss drugs bombarding our television and print ads. I know how hard it can be on the person battling diabetes and their family; in this episode, I am talking about the two things you must include in your wellness toolbox; whether you decide to use these weight loss drugs or not, they are mindset and lifestyle changes.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

Hello friends, in today's episode, I am sharing why we must stop the all-or-nothing mentality regarding our wellness journey on today's show.  I have been guilty of this mentality, -and I share how and what I did about it in today’s episode. Even small steps toward wholeness are steps in the right direction.

Enjoy!

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources

Hello friends,

Is your sweet tooth sabotaging your wellness goals? We've all said it; I will cut back on sugar today. No more sodas or candy bars. But sugar is added to just about everything we eat. Today's episode is about reducing the amount of sugar you eat to lower blood sugar and improve overall health.   We all must understand that sugar is harmful. It can weaken our immune system and lead to heart disease; while overeating sugar does not necessarily cause type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, it contributes to weight gain, which can contribute to the onset of both lifestyle diseases. Learn some simple tools to help you reduce your sugar intake and enjoy your food more.

For more tips, head over to the blog www.thediabetictoolbox.com. Don't forget to follow the blog so you don't miss a blog post or podcast episode.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

Hello friends, today we are talking about how to lose belly fat and improve our overall health.  In this episode, I am sharing some easy-to-implement tools to help you win the battle of the bulge.   Looking cute in a bathing suit isn’t the only reason to be concerned about belly fat. Packing on excess pounds around your middle raises your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. It is especially dangerous when your spare tire includes visceral fat surrounding your heart, lungs, liver, and other organs.

Remember that you can have too much visceral fat even if you’re thin, so measure your waistline to be sure it’s under 35 inches for women and 40 inches for men. Hormonal changes, a sedentary lifestyle, and mindless eating all promote weight gain around your middle.  You can reduce this unhealthy fat with simple lifestyle changes.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

Hello friends,

Today's podcast is about creating an evening routine that brings you joy, help you get a great night's sleep, and has a successful day.  Creating healthy habits and routines is the cornerstone of a life-changing wellness journey.  As with your morning routine, your evening routine should not cause stress or overwhelm you. On the contrary, this is the part of the day when you focus on activities that relax your mind and body as you prepare for a good night’s sleep. Make your evening routine a non-negotiable part of your day. Your health depends on it.  

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

Hello, my friends; today, we are discussing creating a successful morning routine.  You might be thinking, how would making a morning routine help to manage diabetes? Successfully managing your diabetes requires the creation of healthy habits that will become the foundation of your healthy lifestyle. A morning routine is one of the pillars of that foundation. It is no secret that how we start our morning can affect the quality of the entire day.

Don't forget to share this episode with someone you love and follow the podcast at www.thediabetictoolbox.com so you don't miss an episode.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

Hello friends, today we are talking about intermittent fasting.  I am sharing the two most popular ways to fast intermittently and what happened when I tried to do this myself. Intermittent fasting is all the rage now but is it safe, and can it help you in your quest to reverse or successfully manage your prediabetes or type 2 diabetes? Well, let’s find out. To be clear, I am not an advocate of this eating protocol; everyone has to find their own rhythm to eating and digesting food. Before you start any new eating plan, please check with your primary care physician to ensure that it is safe for you.  Fasting is nothing new; some religious sects include fasting to assist followers with deepening their spiritual connection or becoming more mindful of how they live. But intermittent fasting has become all the rage for helping practitioners to lose weight, lower their blood sugar, and reduce inflammation, to name a few of its benefits.      

With Peace & Love, 

Renee

Resources

Hello, my friends; today, I am sharing two simple tools to help you become more mindful and create healthier habits that support your wellness journey.  Creating healthier habits will not only affect your health, but I believe that as you get healthier, so will your family.  So, learn how to be your family's health change agent.  The two tips we are talking about today are keeping a food journal and eating more slowly.  Did you know that it takes about 20 minutes before your brain registers that you have eaten enough food and are full?  Eating slowly will also help you to enjoy food more and help you to stop overeating.

  With peace & love,

Renee

Resources

Hello, my friend; before you get too deep into your New Year's Resolution, I invite you to take a step back and reflect.  Today's podcast is about the benefits of self-reflection, how you can get started today, and why it is important for the success of your wellness journey.

Don't forget to share this episode with someone you love and follow the podcast at www.thediabetictoolbox.com, so you don't miss an episode.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources

Hello friends,

Hello, my friends, 

In today's episode, I am sharing three tips to help you get back on track with your wellness goals.  No need to put your health on the back burner even if you are not where you hoped you would be when you made your New Year's resolution at the beginning of the year.

The tips are simple, show yourself some grace, move your body, and connect with your tribe.  I will show you how.  Remember, self-care must be your priority if your goal is to reverse or successfully manage your prediabetes. When you function at your highest level, every area of your life is better, and your work, relationships, health, and finances will shine because you decided to put yourself first.

Remember, you are stronger than you give yourself credit and more blessed than you know.

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Hello, my friends, and welcome to our first yoga audio class. I hope you enjoy it. Today’s class will focus on what I believe is one of the most essential foundations of your yoga practice. The breath! If you can tap into the breath and breathe intentionally, you can reduce stress and increase your joy throughout the day.

We tend to look to external strategies to reduce our overwhelm and manage stress. But unfortunately, strategies like overeating, bingeing on our favorite Netflix series or surfing social media do little to improve our health outcomes or equip us to fight prediabetes or any chronic illness.

I want to invite you to tap into an internal source that is readily available to accompany you into battle as you manage the physical and emotional symptoms of your illness.  That source is your breath.

With Peace and Love

Renee

Hello friends, in today's episode, I am sharing four reasons you should not keep your prediabetes or type 2 diabetes diagnosis a secret.  Because type 2 diabetes and prediabetes are considered a lifestyle disease associated with how a person or group of people live. Unfortunately, this thinking has cast a stigma on the disease; many folks keep their diagnosis a secret.  But keeping such a secret can be dangerous not only for you but for your children as well; not telling them will leave them unable to protect themselves against this disease.  Plus, you need to have the love and support of people who love you.

Take a listen to the podcast and let me know what you think. I am only an email away at info@thediabetictoolbox.com 

Do me a favor and share this episode with someone you love.

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Hello friends, on today's show, we are discussing four habits that could sabotage your ability to lose weight and keep it off.  Taking a look at our habits and rituals is so important to creating the life you want because your habits and rituals will determine if we can set sail towards our goals or if we stay stuck and idle on shore.  Forgive the sailing analogies. :) 

Remember that this is a judgment-free zone; we make changes by observing, not judging, our behavior.  

Please share this episode with someone you love,

With Peace and Love,

Renee

Hello, my friends, 

Hello, my friends,

I will be reading from my new book, “You Are Stronger Than You Think- Affirmations to Heal your Mind, Body, and Spirit, in today's show. I hope you enjoy it. To get the whole healing experience, click the link in the show notes to download your copy of the eBook so that you can start working on the journaling questions for this week.

Today's affirmation is entitled "I Call Upon My Inner Strength" If your chronic illness has you feeling weak and out of control, this affirmation will remind you of the strength you have inside; you need to tap into that strength, so you do not lose heart and stop fighting. This affirmation will help you to do just that. 

To be clear, self-care is not just the latest buzzphrase in the wellness community. Research has shown that if you do not increase your level of self-care, you risk not being able to manage your physical, mental, or spiritual health. Self-care simply means taking better care of yourself, putting your needs first more often, and doing things that make you happy.

In this episode, you will learn six simple ways that you can manage your self-care:

• Get active 
• Eat Healthier
• Take Your Medication
• Wash Your Hands
• Connect With Community
• Create an Emergency Kit

Self-care can no longer be something you put on the back burner; your health cannot wait for you to make it a priority. Work deadlines, community events, and family obligations will go unattended if you are laid up because you did not effectively manage your health. You have spent your whole life putting others first. Isn’t it time to remember that you are important, that you matter? My answer would be yes.

With Peace and Love,

Renee

On today's show, I am giving you all the deets on my private coaching program, The Prediabetes Weight Loss Lab.  I created this evidence-based eight-week private coaching program to help midlife folks win the battle against prediabetes.

It is designed to help, you lose weight naturally, reduce your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol numbers, help you change your habits, and create a lifestyle that supports your health and brings you joy.

How many times have you said, I will start living my life when I lose weight?  Well, today I am going to show you three ways to start living your life with joy regardless of what the scale says.  

In today's show, you will learn how to be mindful, build a wardrobe you love, and why you should start doing the things you love.  Just because you need to lose weight to successfully manage your chronic illness.  You are beautiful at your present weight. 

 Losing weight may give you more confidence in the short run, but if you do not heal your mindset and stay present in your life, the weight is going to come back, and you will be back on that diet merry-go-round of self-defeating, negative self-talk which leads to self-loathing and comfort eating.  You deserve more than that.

Share this episode with someone you love, there are 88 million folks in the U.S. struggling with prediabetes, so let's help them out.

Remember, you are stronger than you give yourself credit and more blessed than you know!

With Peace and Love,

Renee