Diabetes is a condition that requires constant monitoring in order to live a normal life style. While it may seem burdensome to test glucose levels and inject yourself at mealtimes, these actions become part of daily life, just like brushing your teeth. My son, Jason, was diagnosed at the age of 12, and after 13 years of living with diabetes, he offers the following tips for leading as normal a life as possible.
1. Watch What you Eat at Restaurants
The biggest problem with eating out is ending up with high blood sugar. Restaurant meals are often rich and fatty and there may be entrees and desserts. I inject a slightly higher dose of insulin and watch what I eat and how much of it.
2. Be Cautious at Parties
I always take my tester and insulin to any event, even if food is not expected. At parties you don’t think you are eating much but the little bits add up quickly. Alcohol should be consumed sparingly. I only have two drinks at a party and will mix them with diet soda where possible.
3. Inject Yourself without Attracting Attention
I wait until conversation shifts from me and then inject myself under the table or discreetly move my legs to the side so I can inject my thigh. I normally use my stomach when I’m wearing long pants in winter and my legs when I’m wearing shorts in summer. I have had some interesting conversations when people notice what I’m doing.
4. Test your Glucose Levels Discreetly
I tend to not test if many people are eating and watching as the sight of my blood may put them off. If my sugar feels high then I will go into a restroom and test myself there.
5. Ensure Friends and Work Colleagues Know the Danger Signs
I have always told my friends, college mates and work colleagues that I’m diabetic and what signs to look out for. They know to call for medical help immediately if I pass out.
6. Keep the Correct Foods at Home
If you have fatty and sweet treats in the pantry, they will be a constant temptation. Rather, stock up on healthy snacks and foods that won’t cause your sugar to spike.
7. Wear a Medic Alert
I wear a medic alert bracelet stating that I’m an insulin-dependent diabetic. This can save valuable time if I go into a coma from low or high blood glucose and gives me peace of mind when I am out on my own.
8. Always Tell Someone your Plans for the Day
Make sure family members have an idea of your plans for the day. That way it will be easier to track you if you suffer a hypoglycemic attack and are wandering around in a daze.
9. Have Regular Checkups
Have your Hb1Ac test regularly to determine your long term sugar levels. Eye tests and a general check up each year are also important and will help keep you healthy.
10. Exercise Regularly
Exercise is an excellent way to help with sugar control. Try and make it part of your daily routine – even if it is just a brisk walk or a jog around the block.