5 summer tips for people with diabetes

5 Summer tips for people with diabetes
 

Hi everyone! I’m Jaime – a Medtronic employee and a personal expert at enjoying summer while living with type 1 diabetes. Summer brings a lot of things—vacations, time outdoors, water activities, family BBQs and much more. 

Here are 5 tips that I do to set myself up for success during the summer months!
 

Summer Tip #1 – Drink water
 

For me, hydration is always important but it’s essential during the sunny, hot, and humid summers in South Texas.  

I set timers on my phone to remind me to hit my water goals and I bought a fun water bottle in a bright color to motivate me too!
 

Summer Tip #2 – Use all the tape
 

Living in South Texas, the temps average in the 100’s (^◦F) during the summer with 100% humidity — which is not the best environment for my sensor and infusion sets.  

I’m outside more and spend a lot of time in the pool trying to keep cool. I find that I have extra challenges with adhesion during the warmer months.  

I’m very cognizant about adding on things like extra tape and utilizing prep wipes to make sure my sensor and infusion set stay put!
 

Summer Tip #3 – Take a travel backup plan
 

If you’re like me and try to squeeze in all the travel plans while your kiddos are on summer vacation, a back up plan is KEY to a successful trip. If I’m traveling outside of the United States, I get a Travel Loaner Pump from Medtronic and I make sure to pack the following:

• Long and short acting insulin + syringes
• Test strips
• Plenty of sensors, infusion sets, and reservoirs
• Cool pack to keep my insulin cold
• Glucose tabs or gummy bears for lows
• Tape for my sensors
• Alcohol wipes

Summer Tip #4 – Protect your feet
 

I love wearing flip flops and would live barefoot if I could get away with it. However, I know I have to protect my feet — especially in the summer.  

While it’s super tempting to run barefoot in the yard with my daughter or to walk around barefoot by the pool, I try to make sure to wear sandals that fit properly to protect my feet.  

I’m also a big fan of getting routine pedicures in the summer to give my feet a little added TLC. 
 

Summer Tip #5 - Exercise safely
 

I change up my workout routines in the summer.  Workouts move to either the early mornings or later in the evening so I can avoid the hotter temps during the day.  

I also tend to focus more on indoor activities instead of the normal outdoor hiking I do during the spring and fall months. Kick boxing, yoga, and spin classes are some of my favorite activities to do during the summer months.  

I always support my hydration with electrolytes (and my new water bottle) and make sure to test before and after working out to make sure I’m staying safe.   

What are some of your summer tips for living with diabetes? Share them below with the community!