Winter Tips for Keeping Blood Sugar Steady
Cold weather can strain your body, changing your blood flow. Holidays during the winter months can also interfere with your typical meal plan. Cold temperatures also make it harder to get outside to stay active. These changes can increase your blood sugar. That’s why it is important to manage your blood sugar levels.
Here are 7 tips to help you keep your blood sugar steady:
- Check your blood sugar regularly. If you are not feeling well, check it more often. The cold can chill your hands, making testing more painful, so try wrapping your hands around a cup of warm water before testing.
- Stay warm. Make sure your home is heated to at least 65 degrees in the rooms you use most. Keep bedroom windows closed and use extra blankets.
- Add indoor activities to your routine. Even when the weather is cold, you can stay active. Try a yoga or other exercise video.
- Stick to your meal plan. Eat as close to your usual mealtime. If eating sweets, try to cut back on carbs, like potatoes, bread, and pasta dishes.
- Check your feet every day. Pay close attention to your skin and feet to identify potential issues early.
- Store medicines away from extreme cold. Don’t let your insulin freeze. Even if it thaws, it won’t work. Cold temperatures can also damage insulin pumps and glucose monitors.
- Get your flu shot. The flu shot can reduce your chances of getting sick and going to the hospital.
By following these tips, you can help keep your blood sugar levels stable and stay healthy during the colder winter months. Remember, managing your diabetes is a daily effort, and staying prepared for winter’s challenges will help you stay healthy.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/articles/managing-diabetes-cold-weather.html
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/healthy-eating/5-healthy-eating-tips-holidays.html
