C-peptide…you’ve never heard of it? You’re not alone. C-peptide is produced when the beta cells in the pancreas manufacture insulin. For every molecule of insulin produced, the body also produces one molecule of C-peptide. People suffering from Type 1 diabetes produce less insulin and less C-peptide than other people. Why? Their beta cells are progressively destroyed, leaving the body unable to manufacture a typical level of insulin or C-peptides. In fact, testing the bloodstream for C-peptide levels is one of the ways that doctors can diagnose Type 1 diabetes.ⁱ

For many years, scientists have assumed that C-peptide was merely a byproduct of the insulin-making process, with no usefulness of its own. This seemingly-insignificant molecule never seemed worthy of making the news—until now. It turns out that C-peptides may be helpful in fighting the effects of diabetes after all.

Researchers now theorize that C-peptides may enhance the ability of red blood cells to use glucose more effectively. When C-peptides bond with metal ions in the bloodstream, this seems to activate proteins on the surface of red blood cells.ⁱⁱ These activated proteins may transport glucose into the red blood cell. Why is this important? Because red blood cells do not respond to insulin, unlike other cells in the body. The increased glucose uptake apparently caused by C-peptides may be significant in improving the condition of diabetes.

What effects do C-peptides have on people with Type 1 diabetes? Studies have shown that C-peptides can improve blood flow, kidney function, and nerve function in these patients.ⁱⁱⁱ In one trial, administering C-peptides increased the blood flow to the heart, skin, and muscles for patients with Type 1 diabetes, but had no effect on healthy patients. In other trials, administration of C-peptides improved both the speed of nerve functions and the level of sensibility impairment.

Although studies have not yet proved its efficacy conclusively, further research should shed light on whether C-peptide can help prevent or delay the onset of complications from Type 1 diabetes.

We're so happy to report that response to our Diabetes Educator of the Year contest has been off the charts. In addition to warm receptions from our loyal customers, numerous Diabetes-focused websites and other media outlets have covered the contest and shown their support.

In an effort to celebrate our five finalists for a little while longer, we have extended our voting deadline and the online polls will now be open until February 22nd. So please cast your vote and show your appreciation for an Educator who is making a difference in the community.

Click Here to cast your vote!

American Diabetes Wholesale carries delicious, high-quality food products to help manage your dietary needs—while still enjoying great flavor.

Salad Dressings
Salads…love ‘em or hate ‘em, we know we should eat ‘em. If you can’t bear the thought of a salad without your favorite dressing, we’ve got just the thing for you. Walden Farms Salad Dressings are calorie free, fat free, and cholesterol free, making them a sensible choice for people with diabetes. For people on restricted diets, these flavorful salad dressings are gluten free and carb free, too. Walden Farms Salad Dressings are available from ADW in nine popular varieties: Asian, Bleu Cheese, Caesar, French, Honey Dijon, Italian, Ranch, Thousand Island, and Creamy Bacon.

Sauces
Dreaming of those warm summer days now that winter is here? Break out the basting brush and throw a barbeque party for friends and family! Top grilled chicken with Walden Farms Original Barbeque Sauce. It’s made with all the delicious ingredients you’d expect: Dijon mustard, two types of tangy vinegar, Worchester sauce, cayenne pepper, spices, and more. Walden Farms Original Barbeque Sauce is free of calories, carbs, fat, cholesterol, and gluten, so the whole family can enjoy in good health. And for those burgers and hot dogs for the kids? Don’t forget to put out the Walden Farms Tomato Ketchup.

Veggie Dips
One great thing about winter is that it leads to…March Madness! You’ll need some snacks to munch on when you get together with your friends to watch all those exciting games. For the health-conscious set who love a good relish tray, complete your spread with Walden Farms Vegetable Dips. Walden Farms French Onion Dip and Walden Farms Ranch Dip are made from tasty ingredients such as buttermilk, sliced onion, minced garlic, carrots, spinach, white pepper, and other natural herbs and spices. You’ll never miss all that fat and cholesterol in those high-calorie dips from the grocery store.

Snacks
Check out ADW’s selection of snack crisps, too. ExtendCrisps Baked Snacks help stabilize blood sugar levels for up to 9 hours. These all-natural crisps are a good source of fiber and protein and have a low glycemic index rating and load. With five yummy varieties to choose from, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste: White Cheddar, Zesty Ranch, Italian Herb, Honey BBQ, and Cinnamon.

Last but not least, a little something for your sweet tooth: Omega Smart Nutrition Bars (in 9 wild flavors from Banana Chocolate Chip to Pomegranate Strawberry Colada) and ExtendBar snack bars in five fruity, chocolatey, peanut-buttery flavors. Bon appétit!

Turkey Burgers

Serves: 4

Nutritional Analysis:
285 calories, 411 mg sodium, 35 mg cholesterol, 26 g carbohydrate, 33 g protein, 6 g fat

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground turkey breast
• Egg substitute equal to 1 egg
• 1/4 cup dry bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon steak sauce
• 1 teaspoon spicy brown mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 4 hamburger buns, split
• Lettuce leaves and tomato slices

1. In a bowl, combine the first 7 ingredients.
2. Shape into four burgers (for easier shaping, use cold wet hands or disposable plastic gloves).
3. Pan-fry, grill or broil until no longer pink.
4. Serve on buns with lettuce and tomatoes.

Source: www.RecipeGoldmine.com