From eu.coshoctontribune.com
By Emily Marrison
Heat and humidity can affect blood sugar levels. Be sure to drink plenty of water and stay out of direct sunlight
I know the season doesn’t officially change until June 21, but last week felt like summer. As I looked at the weekly forecast, my weather app showed an image of the sun behind a cactus for Friday. It was a good reminder of how hot weather can make us feel.
People who have diabetes (type 1 and type 2) can feel the heat more intensely than those who do not. Diabetes can result in complications that affect the efficiency of several systems in the body. According to the CDC, diabetes can lead to damage to blood vessels and nerves. This means sweat glands can be less effective not allowing the body to cool itself as well. In general, people with diabetes get dehydrated more quickly. Not drinking enough liquids can raise blood sugar. Higher blood sugar can increase urination which can also lead to dehydration.
People who need insulin may need to adjust their insulin dose, so close monitoring of blood sugar levels is recommended. Insulin and oral diabetes medicines should not be stored in sunlight or a hot car. The same goes for equipment and supplies. Heat can damage blood sugar monitors, insulin pumps and test strips.
Dr. Marwan Hamaty with Cleveland Clinic encourages patients to participate in outdoor activities in all sorts of weather. He simply advises them to take certain precautions. These are good tips to keep in mind:
• Drink plenty of water. This applies to everyone whether or not they have diabetes.
• Keep items to treat low blood sugar with you. Though diabetes is associated with high blood sugar levels, people with diabetes can also experience low blood sugar with increased exercise. Have glucose tabs or glucose gel handy.
• Snacks may also be helpful to regulate blood sugar levels. Discuss some good options with your dietitian.
• Avoid dehydration. When you are active in warm weather, consider carrying along a low-calorie electrolyte-replenishing sports drink.
• Avoid sunburn. This is also helpful advice for everyone. Sunburn stresses your body and this can raise blood sugar levels.
• Avoid temperature extremes. When possible, take it easy on exceptionally hot and humid days. There is a difference between 80 degrees and 95 degrees and your body will let you know. Whenever possible, aim to stay in the shade rather than direct sunlight.
Today I’ll leave you with this quote from Yogi Berra: “It ain't the heat, it's the humility.”
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