When type 2 diabetes is well-managed and not being controlled with insulin or another fast-acting medication, daily monitoring of blood sugar is often unnecessary. You can find an example of specific recommendations for test frequency in the Endocrine Society's overview of glucose monitoring. Other expert groups issued similar recommendations earlier this decade.
 
However, a recent study found that many, many people who could safely test less frequently are checking their blood sugar every day - or even multiple times a day. You will find this issue helpfully discussed in a New York Times article.
 
If you believe you meet the criteria for less frequent monitoring, discuss this information and your test routine with your doctor to see if you could safely monitor less often. You may also need to inquire whether your HMO or health insurance provider mandates daily blood glucose testing to prove compliance. 

Some medications are beneficial in the short-term but can cause problems if used longer. Depending on the drug, "too long" can be a few days, weeks, or months. For most people, the following should be taken for a limited time. Be sure to consult with your doctor before you stop taking one he or she has prescribed for regular use.

You can find information about these medications and many others on MedlinePlus.gov. 

Contrary to a statement in our May issue, working out on an elliptical machine is good for your heart and your bones. Though less effective than high-impact activities, elliptical work-outs do help bones stay strong and have two advantages over most other bone-healthy exercises: they are usually well-tolerated by individuals with joint pain and provide a workout for both the lower and upper body.  

 

If you are curious to learn more about these devices, here is a quick primer on using and shopping for them.