Blogs, Blogs Everywhere!
Jan 16, 2017, 16:12 PM
S
o what is a blog anyway?
As I look to the internet for answers – here are two definitions:
- “blog/noun”: a regularly updated website or web page, typically one run by an individual or small group, that is written in an informal or conversational style
- “A blog is a discussion or informational website published on the World Wide Web consisting of discrete, often informal diary-style text entries ('posts').”
-Wikipedia
In the world of diabetes there are dozens of blogs written by moms with children who have diabetes, or moms who have diabetes themselves. There are dads with children who have diabetes, athletes who share their experiences, and blogs that focus on technology or special foods. What are some of the good “picks” to share with our patients? When reviewing lists of some of the most frequently recommended blogs, the following 10 have consistently come to the forefront:
Many patients feel isolated by their diabetes, and diabetes blogs can certainly be an excellent way of connecting with others – either as a silent reader or by interacting within the chat rooms.
Blogs generally are stories by and for persons with diabetes. They can be opinions or share news of new innovations in diabetes technology and pump wear. Some are forums where you can chat with others who have diabetes (Tu Diabetes). Some focus on type 2 diabetes (A Sweet Life). Most are heartwarming – filled with encouragement and discussions about adjustments to life with diabetes. They are about LIVING with diabetes, not complaining about having diabetes. In general, they are both educational and uplifting. They are not, however, embedded in research, so it is important to relate to our patients that these stories are generally an “n” of 1-2 persons, and should be included in part of the story of having diabetes but may need some clarification by a health professional if insulin dosing or special diets are recommended. In addition, it is important to look over blogs you recommend to patients and to double check facts to make sure the information is helpful, not harmful, and not selling a product that has not been supported in standards of care.
Many patients feel isolated by their diabetes, and diabetes blogs can certainly be an excellent way of connecting with others – either as a silent reader or by interacting within the chat rooms.
This is just a small snippet of all the blogs on diabetes that are available with a click of the mouse. I’m hoping to stay more on top of this as the number of blogs grows and encourage patients to explore those that help create meaningful support to a tedious yet doable disease.
About the Author:
Carla Cox is a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator. She has been a certified diabetes educator for over 25 years, and served as an assistant adjunct professor for 14 years, teaching in areas of sports nutrition and exercise physiology. Currently she works in Missoula, Montana as a diabetes educator in both in- and outpatient settings.