Summer Tips

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Summer Tips

Special for summer: Suzanne's tips for " Good Control " when it's hot, or when

you're traveling.

At this time of year, I get a lot of questions about the impact of summer

activities on diabetes management. I've pulled together a list of suggestions

that can help you as you plan for hot days - as well as for travel by car or

plane.

Tips for the heat and sun

1. Stay well hydrated. Drink plenty of water and other fluids at regular

intervals. Do not wait until you get thirsty - because you can become dehydrated

even before you start to feel it.

2. Protect yourself. Wear cool, comfortable, loose fitting clothing. Use

sunglasses and a hat or cap.

3. Use sunscreen when you will be exposed to intensive sunlight. Don't forget

to put it on your face and the tops of your feet if they are exposed.

Tips for taking care of your feet

1. Choose comfortable walking shoes and wear cotton socks (which breathe).

2. Break in new shoes, wearing them a little each day until you can use them

comfortably all day. (Especially important if you're planning to take them on

a trip!)

3. Don't go barefoot, and wear water shoes at the beach, lake or pool.

Tips for diet and handling food

1. If you're going to be more active than usual, make sure you plan ahead and

take in adequate calories.

2. Try to eat " lighter " in the summer. Be sure to include plenty of those

fresh fruits and vegetables that will be in season.

3. Practice food safety. Hot foods should be kept and served hot; cold foods

should be kept and served cold. Refrigerate any left over food immediately

after the meal.

4. Take nonperishable snacks and plenty of water on road trips and outings.

You can't predict traffic or car problems that might cause your eating schedule

to be disrupted.

5. Pack plenty of snacks in your carry-on baggage during flights.

Tips for handling diabetes supplies, equipment and medications

1. Remember that oral medications, insulin, meters and test strips should not

be exposed to extreme temperatures. Plan ahead to be sure you'll be able to

keep your supplies in a cool place.

2. If you use an insulin pump, remember that it too should not be exposed to

extreme temperatures.

3. When you're flying, pack all of your diabetes medications and supplies in

your carry-on baggage.

4. If you are on insulin, take your glucagon kit with you when you travel.

5. A simple rule of thumb for packing: Take twice the amount of medication

and diabetes supplies that you think you will need. You will probably need to

check your blood glucose levels more frequently when you travel due to a change

in your schedule and activities.

More tips for travel

1. Always check with your physician before any extended travel and make sure

that you are physically fit to participate in the activities you have planned.

2. Always have prescriptions for your diabetes medications and supplies with

you in case you might need more during your travels.

3. Whenever possible, carry telephone numbers of recommended physicians you

can contact in case of an emergency.

4. If you are traveling abroad, you may wish to investigate health insurance

or health services for travelers. Also make sure all of your immunizations and

vaccinations are up to date - and research if any specific vaccinations are

recommended for the places you're visiting. One source of such information is

the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers

(http://www.lifescan.com/links/iamat/).

5. Always wear some type of medical alert identification.

6. Carry a first aid kit in your car and pack first aid supplies in your

carry-on baggage on flights.

7. Always have a partner with you during your travels and summer activities,

or find yourself a " buddy " if you are traveling alone.

8. Practice good safety procedures during your travels and activities.

9. Plan ahead. Good preparation can help you avoid some of the problems that

can arise in travel.

10. Travel with a positive attitude and have a GREAT summer!!!

Marilyn

Moderator for

Diabetic_Recipes

dnevessr@...

Opinions expressed are solely

my own and should not be

mistaken for

Professional advice.