Having diabetes shouldn't stop you from exploring the world. If you have diabetes, then traveling requires some extra planning. But you just need a precise plan to take extra care of your health needs.

A change in diet, activity levels, change in weather, and time zones - all influence your blood sugar levels.

Here are 4 tips to manage your diabetes on vacation.

1.Get a prescription from your doctor The first thing to do after finalizing your destination and booking your tickets is to visit your doctor and get his prescription. Ask your doctor to give an updated assessment of your sugar level and diet plan accordingly. Also, ask your doctor to write a note explaining your condition and the medicines you need. Make a few copies of the prescription in case you misplace it.

2.Keep your medicines within reach If you are traveling on an airplane, don't keep your medicines in checked luggage. Always keep them handy in your backpack stored in your overhead bin. Carrying medicines with you also helps, in case medicines are not available at the place you are traveling to. Carry the prescription along with your medicines with their generic names and dosages.

3.Check the weather conditions of the destination Extreme weather conditions can adversely affect your health if you have diabetes. People with diabetes are sensitive to heat or cold exposure, so you may need to test your blood sugar often and adjust your insulin dose and what you eat and drink. Keep the insulin in the original pack in ice packs. Also extreme cold can cause your glucose monitor to stop working.

4.Pack healthy snacks When traveling, avoiding junk food becomes tough. Stay away from junk food as much as possible as it could be detrimental to your health. Avoid alcohol. When traveling, the food options for diabetics are limited.

Healthy snacks that you can pack include almonds, cashews, walnuts, fresh fruits, salad, etc.

Tags

• Health
• diabetes
• travel
• care
• tips
• prescription

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