Does the program work for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics?
While Type 1 diabetics will likely have a different profile than most Type 2 diabetics, the program will work well for either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetics because of its flexibility and focus on developing a steady energy flow throughout the day.

What is the difference between a short-term versus long-term program?
The short-term program is typically focused on losing weight, which is a major cause of Type 2 diabetes. The diet will have as low a daily caloric intake as you can handle safely, and the exercise program will be as strenuous as you can handle. Basically, the short-term program is designed for a several week period. After you have taken off the weight you need to lose, your diet and exercise will be adjusted to a "maintenance mode" that is designed to keep you at your new weight, and to also keep your blood sugar under control. So the long-term program is designed to create habits that you can sustain indefinitely.

Do I really have to exercise a lot?
The more the better. The good news is that exercise doesn't have to be done using a "No Pain, No Gain" philosophy. We can adjust your program, furthermore, so you develop a long-term exercising program gradually. As you lose weight, you would start exercising more, which will help you lose even more weight. Technically, we start by building up your aerobic base, which can be done by walking.

What is an aerobic base and why is it important?
Our bodies have two types of muscle fibers -- aerobic and anaerobic. Aerobic fibers burn sugar and excess body fat, while anaerobic fibers only burn sugar. Weight-lifting is strictly an anaerobic exercise, while using cardio exercise equipment, such as treadmills and elliptical machines, can be aerobic or anaerobic depending upon your heart rate. You aerobic zone is typically from 65% to 80% of your maximum heart rate. It is important, especially for a diabetic, to build a solid aerobic base first before exercising anaerobically. Not only will this improve cardiovascular strength and conditioning, but if you follow your diet, you will start shedding the fat cells that contribute to the cause of Type 2 diabetes or make it more difficult to contol blood sugar levels as a Type 1 diabetic. Click here for a full listing of the benefits.

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What is your maximum heart rate?
Maximum heart rate is the fastest rate at which your heart should beat while exercising. A good rule of thumb to determine this rate is 220 minus your age. Remember, however, that it is only a guide, so you should only come close to this level after you have experience in exercising, and then with great care.

What is your diabetic profile and why is it important?
Your diabetic profile consists of how much exercise you realistically are going to do, how much weight you need to lose, how much time and willingness you have to prepare food, and your sensitivity to caffeine. Your profile is the starting point we use to customize a specific diet and fitness program for YOU. For example, if you're willing to work out 6 days a week, spend a lot of time preparing your meals using fresh ingredients, need to lose 20 pounds, and hate caffeine, your plan will be very different from someone who wants to ease into exercising, needs to lose 80 pounds, has little time to prepare food, and is not caffeine sensitive.

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Why is caffeine an issue in your diabetic profile?
The best way to boost your metabolic rate is by exercise. If you must ease into an exercise program, however, there are some natural herbs, like green tea and guarana, that contain caffeine and will naturally suppress your appetite. If you can tolerate caffeine, you can use these herbs as part of your weight loss program.

Do I really get a personal diabetic coach and what does the coach do?
Yes, you really get a personal diabetic coach, who will help you develop your program and work with you as you go through the program. Your coach will contact you, at your choice, by email or telephone. After determining your profile, your coach will then talk about your likes and dislikes to determine a diet and fitness program for you. Your coach will also be there whenever needed to help you as you go through the program.

Who are our coaches?
Our coaches are health or fitness professionals, or diabetics who have gone through our program and want to help others. They are all trained in our methodology, and will focus on helping YOU design a program to meet YOUR needs. If you have any questions or issues with any coach or if you are interested in becoming a coach, please send an email to Steve Caswell at scaswell@beatingdiabetes.org.

How much does the service cost?
Our service is FREE. That's right. There is no cost and you NEVER have any obligations to purchase anything or to even pay us a penny. How can we do this, especially since you get a personal coach who will work with you in your program? While you can buy everything you need in local grocery or health food stores, we have some of the best diet and nutrition products on the planet available for direct sale on our website. As you go through our program, we think you'll want to use many of these products either as part of a short-term weight loss program or as part of a long-term program. Thus, we're glad to help you for free and without obligation because we're confident that enough members will purchase their daily products from us to keep our site properly funded.
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