If you are a person who suffers from diabetes a good care routine is important. A good diet, being diligent with your medications and adequate physical activity are key when dealing with this condition.
Summer can make that routine challenging, due to vacations, family reunions and the barbecues that occur, all those town celebrations and neighborhood gatherings.
At Methodist Physicians Clinic Regency we concur with the tips the Centers for Disease Control offers regarding the management of diabetes during your vacation or when scoping out the barbecue spread.
Your medication
- If traveling a long distance, pack twice the supplies you may need. Doing so will account for any delays you may encounter along the way.
- Have snacks, glucose gel or tablets handy in case you experience a drop in your blood glucose.
- Always pack your insurance card and have a list of emergency numbers, including your physician, with you.
- Make sure you have identification that alerts others that you are diabetic.
- Be aware of time zone changes and adjust your medication times accordingly.
- Carry copies of your prescriptions with you.
Traveling by car
- If you will be riding in a vehicle for a long period of time, make sure you get out and walk around every hour or two. This will reduce your chance of developing blood clots.
- Have a cooler in your vehicle packed with fresh fruit, vegetables and bottles of water.
- Small portions (1/4 cup) of dried fruit, nuts and seeds are also good snack options.
Traveling by plane
- Put all your diabetic supplies in your carry-on luggage. The carry-on should also include snacks in case none are served or if you have flight delays.
- If a meal will be served, call ahead and ask for a diabetic, low fat or low cholesterol option.
- Make security aware if you have an insulin pump. You can request a visual inspection and pat down in place of passing through the metal detector.
Enjoy your trip
- Be diligent and check your levels often.
- Maintain your exercise routine and stay active while traveling.
- Be mindful of your feet. Be mindful of hot pavement or hot sandy beaches. Don’t go barefoot.
- Make sure your immunizations are current.
Other resources:
Have Diabetes, Will Travel
Buffet Table Tips for Barbecues, Family Reunions
American Diabetes Association – When You Travel
