How does the summer heat affect your diabetes?

Hello everyone, how are you coping with the heat this week?

Did you know that people living with diabetes, type 1 or type 2, often feel the heat more than others? As summer sets in, it’s important to know how high temperatures can affect your body and your blood sugar. 🌡️

🧠 Why does heat hit harder with diabetes?

• Nerve or blood vessel damage can affect sweating, making it harder to cool down.
• High temps can cause dehydration, especially if blood sugar is high or if you're on diuretics.
• Insulin absorption may change in the heat, so you might need to adjust doses or test more often.
• Humidity can make it even harder for your body to stay cool, even when it doesn’t feel that hot.

🏃‍♀️ Stay active, but smartly: Exercise in the morning or evening, or head to an air-conditioned space like a gym or mall. Avoid being active when the heat index is high (over 80°F with 40% humidity).

🧊 Heat-smart tips for managing diabetes:

• Drink lots of water, even if you’re not thirsty.
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, they can dehydrate and spike blood sugar.
• Check blood sugar more often, especially with changes in routine or physical activity.
• Keep insulin, meters, and strips cool, never leave them in hot cars or direct sun.
• Wear light, loose clothing, sunscreen, and shoes (yes, even at the beach).

🧳 Storm prep tip: If you live in an area prone to power cuts or hurricanes, keep a go-bag ready with meds, snacks, and a plan for storing insulin safely.

How do you manage your diabetes during hot weather?

Have you ever had to change your routine because of heat or humidity?

What’s one summer tip or item you never leave home without?

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Your experiences help others feel less alone. Let’s share and support each other through the season. 💛

Stay safe out there,
Somya from the Carenity team 🌼