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How to Manage Diabetes in the Summer
It’s June, and you’re ready to jump into summertime head first, but you’re nervous because you’re new to the diabetes world. Here are a few ChipMonk tips for managing diabetes this summer.
Tips and Tricks for Managing Diabetes in the Summer:
- Drink your water! Staying hydrated seems like a no-brainer for summertime, but it’s even more important for individuals with diabetes. Try to keep your water bottle full as you swim, hike, or just enjoy the sun.
- Pack snacks! You never know when you’ll need them. Try packing fruits for additional hydration and delicious flavors. We recommend trying in-season fruits like blueberries, kiwi, strawberries, and watermelon!
- Consider making any medication adjustments. If you plan on being more active this summer, talk to your doctor about adjusting medications to fit your summer activities. With increased activity comes the risk of hypoglycemia. (Carry a fast acting sugar snack with you in case your blood sugar gets low)
- Keep your medicine cool! The sun and heat can ruin your glucose meters, strips and insulin. An insulated bag with an ice pack will help protect your blood glucose meters and test strips from the heat.
- Apply sunscreen and wear a hat / protective clothing when in the sun. Sunburns can affect your body by stressing it out and raising blood sugar levels.
- Know the signs, symptoms and treatments for heat injuries. Heat exhaustion can make you feel dizzy, faint, nauseous, have a headache or muscle cramps, and sweat. If you experience these things, move to a cooler location and drink water. Loosening clothes can also help, but if you’re still experiencing symptoms, seek medical help.
Summer is a great time to get out there and be active, but keep yourself prepared!