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As a person with diabetes, you’re well aware of the daily challenges that blood sugar disorders can bring. Eating healthy, staying active, and taking care of your overall health and well-being are all important for keeping your diabetes in check, but can be a lot to juggle.
The good news is, with the right tools and products on your side, you can greatly improve the quality of your life while reducing the stress and effort that comes with managing your condition effectively.
Whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, there are plenty of devices and products out there to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle and make your daily life easier and more comfortable. Below, you can read about some of the best products and supplies that can help you keep your diabetes in check and enhance the quality of your life.
Blood Glucose Monitoring Devices
As you certainly know by now, the first step in keeping diabetes in check is paying close attention to your blood sugar levels. This is why portable blood sugar meters, or glucometers, are a must-have for all diabetics: they’re compact, easy to use, and offer accurate and quick results.
Modern glucometers have also come a long way with features like memory storage, data sharing through mobile apps, and the ability to test with tiny blood samples. These devices are the cornerstone of diabetes management as they are designed to help you keep track of your glucose levels and stay on top of your health.
Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)
If you’re tired of having to prick your finger multiple times a day, or you simply want to be able to have daily real-time updates about your blood sugar levels, you should get yourself a CGM. These wearable devices provide real-time data about your condition, allowing you to spot trends and make informed decisions about your lifestyle.
In essence, continuous glucose monitoring can tell you what your blood sugar level is at any time of the day or night, which can help you tailor your diet, sports, sleep, and other daily activities to your condition. It can also help you make more informed decisions about the medicines you take (of course, you should always talk to your doctor first before making any drastic changes to your routine).
Insulin Pens and Pumps
Insulin pens and pumps are invaluable tools for those who require insulin therapy. Insulin pens are convenient for on-the-go dosing, while insulin pumps mimic the role of a healthy pancreas, providing a continuous supply of insulin.
Both insulin pens and pumps offer precision in dosage, helping you maintain stable blood sugar levels while reducing the frequency of injections. One study found that insulin pumps can lead to better glycemic control and fewer hypoglycemic events.
Diabetic-Friendly Meal Planning Apps
To keep your condition in control, it’s essential to follow a healthy diet that is naturally rich in nutrients and that can help you keep your blood sugar levels in your target range. Of course, this is often easier said than done, especially if you, like most people, have a fast-paced lifestyle.
This is where diabetic-friendly meal-planning apps come in handy. By offering diabetes-appropriate recipes and helping you monitor your calories and track your carb intake, these apps can help you make more informed food choices and keep your blood sugar levels in check.
Footcare Products
Diabetes can affect your feet, so it’s essential to take good care of them. Consider investing in foot care products like specialized shoes, socks for diabetics, and foot creams.
These products can help prevent issues like neuropathy and ulcers while keeping your feet healthy and comfortable. Diabetic-friendly socks can be particularly beneficial for people who struggle with sluggish circulation in feet and lower legs, as well as those who have nerve damage in their feet.
Research indicates that proper foot care can significantly reduce the risk of foot ulcers and amputations in people with diabetes.
Skincare Products
Diabetes can sometimes lead to skin problems. Dry, itchy skin is a common issue, but some diabetics can also experience rashes, sores, and other skin problems.
The good news is, even if you have extremely sensitive and dry skin, you can treat it and improve it with the right skin care products. Moisturizers formulated for diabetics can help hydrate and soothe your skin, keeping it healthy and comfortable.
However, sometimes, even with the best intentions and care, it’s possible to develop skin issues. AAD recommends seeking immediate medical care if you experience a skin or nail infection, as it can quickly become serious.
Stress-Relief Tools and Resources
Finally, managing diabetes isn’t just about the physical aspects; it’s also about your emotional and mental well-being. The stress of managing the condition can sometimes feel overwhelming, which, in turn, can affect your ability to control your diabetes.
That’s where stress-relief tools and mental health resources come into play. Meditation apps, online courses, counseling, or support groups can help you cope with the emotional side of diabetes and maintain a positive outlook. Talking to a healthcare professional can also help you manage your stress and avoid further complications.
