Finding the perfect holiday gift for a loved one isn't always an easy task. And, when that special someone is among the 7 million Americans diagnosed with diabetes, your task might be more challenging. This year, LifeScan, the leading manufacturer of blood glucose monitors for people with diabetes, suggests giving the gift of good health to your friend or relative with diabetes:

• Membership to a gym. From aerobics classes, to free weights, to swimming, gyms offer a wide variety of exercise alternatives to all individuals, including those with diabetes. Many health clubs invite guest speakers to address members on how exercise can help keep certain illnesses, like diabetes, under control.

• Rollerblades. Tie on a pair, along with a helmet and pads, and get exercise by rollerblading to and from work, to an after-school job or even while running errands.

• Mountain/racing bike. Whether exploring bumpy trails in the countryside or riding the main streets, biking is back, and provides the cyclist with a great cardiovascular workout.

• Home workout equipment. If time is a problem, home equipment, whether it be a treadmill, rowing machine, or stationary bicycle, might be the answer. A home workout also allows people with diabetes to monitor their blood glucose levels before and after exercise, in a relaxed, comfortable setting.

• Cookbooks. Cookbooks like "Eat for Life" and "The Healthy Homestyle Cookbook" offer those who are concerned about their diet and eating habits, as well as people with diabetes, helpful tips on dietary plans, food shopping and eating out.

• Exercise videotapes. Home videos are an inexpensive way to exercise. "Every Woman's Workout," by actress Mary Tyler Moore, who has diabetes herself, provides an effective workout for women of all ages.

No matter which diet plan or form of exercise a person chooses, everyone with diabetes should regularly monitor blood glucose levels to determine how well their treatment program is working. A compact electronic meter, such as the new OneTouch^® Profile^® Diabetes Tracking System, combines simple, accurate testing with a host of features that help people manage their condition while reducing their risk of serious long-term complications. At present, there is no cure for diabetes. But regular self-monitoring of blood glucose can help people with diabetes lead active, healthy lives. To learn more about diabetes, LifeScan offers a free 24-hour educational service called Tele-Library, which enables callers to access the latest diabetes information (via tape-recorded messages) in English and Spanish. Call toll-free 1 800 847-SCAN.

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