The longer, warmer days can feel more carefree than the rest of the year. But the summer months are just as important as the rest of the year when it comes to managing your blood sugar. Knowing your numbers lets you know if your diabetes management plan is working or if changes need to be made.
Here are some tips for helping you keep up with blood sugar checks during those lazy days of summer:
Keep your meter close
Waking up later than normal with school out? Not a problem. Keep your meter on your nightstand by your alarm clock; that way you’ll be less likely to forget a fasting check. Check before you get out of bed to start your day, whenever that is. It’s okay if it’s not the exact same time every morning.
Get moving, get checking
Check your blood sugar after any summer sport like swimming, hiking, or playing baseball to see the positive effect activity has on your levels.
Connect it to a habit
It’s always helpful to anchor blood sugar checks to an existing habit like brewing coffee. If your habit changes — maybe you’re skipping the at-home brew for an iced coffee to go — tie your regular check to a different routine, like taking your morning shower or brushing your teeth.
Take it to go
If you’re headed on vacation, routines will likely go out the window. Make sure you have room for your meter in the bag you’ll keep when you’re on the go; set an alarm for 2 hours after you finish meals to remember your post-meal check.
Stick with it
Remember that it’s possible to enjoy backyard barbecues and splurge a bit during holiday gatherings. Don’t be discouraged from checking just because you’ve overindulged a bit; it’s important to know how different foods impact you. If you get off track, pick up your routine the next day.