Enjoying Your Vacation When You Have Diabetes

If you're a diabetic, daily life can be difficult. You have to be careful about what you eat and how much you

eat, how often you take your medication and in what doses, and how often you check your insulin levels. Your diabetic routine can be disruptive to everyday life. So going on vacation can compound and complicate diabetic matters even worse.
But being a diabetic on vacation does not have to be complicated! When you have a routine that you stick to, even when on vacation, you ensure your blood glucose levels remain consistent, even in a foreign environment. There are ways you can keep your routine and enjoy your vacation!
First, keep your meal times consistent. When planning your vacation plan meal times that are the same as when you eat normally and keep your meals balanced. Knowing when your next meal will be helps you take the correct amount of insulin and medication.
Carry a snack with you just in case your blood sugar gets low. You will likely be more active than normal, so  bring a couple of options in case your glucose levels drop several times throughout the day.
If you have family and friends going with you who know you're diabetic, they'll understand when you have to step away and check your insulin. However, if you're travelling with people you don't know well or at all, explain to them that you have diabetes and may disappear several times throughout the day. This will help alleviate any awkwardness when you take out your meter or eat a small snack. It might also be worthwhile to explain what to do if you got into diabetic shock.
Make sure you test your insulin regularly, more so than normal, as your levels will likely be thrown off with this different routine. Just because you're getting on a roller coaster to enjoy the ride doesn't mean your diabetes has to go for a ride as well! On vacation diabetics can get fatigued or sick easily if they are not on top of their insulin levels.
Finally, drink plenty of water, more so than you would normally. You'll likely be out in the sun, walking, or doing more physical activity, and may not notice if you're feeling dehydrated. When you're dehydrated your blood sugar levels will fluctuate and you will feel sick.
Be smart about your diabetes when you're on vacation this summer. Listen to your body- it's going to tell you when you're not feeling well or quite right. If you have to stop and take a break, then don't feel ashamed or upset. You're doing what you need to to keep your body healthy and happy. Safe travels!
Reference: Diabetic Connect.
If you are a diabetic and do not currently see a podiatrist, call our Glastonbury or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Ayman M. Latif, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Diabetic Foot Doctor in CT
Podiatrist in Glastonbury and Middletown, CT
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