Summer is finally heating up! The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) has some great guidance for understanding the effects of the heat and best practices for managing diabetes during the summer.

Feeling the Heat

People living with diabetes (type 1 and type 2) feel the heat more than others. Certain diabetes complications can affect sweat glands so that your body can't cool as effectively, and people with diabetes get dehydrated more quickly. Also, high temperatures can affect how your body uses insulin. The humidity also plays a part. It's harder to stay cool because sweat does not evaporate as well in high humidity. The CDC recommends checking the heat index and taking intentional steps to stay cool when it reaches 80°F in the shade with 40% humidity or above.

Summer Checklist

Drink plenty of water.
Test your blood sugar often.
Keep medicines, supplies, and equipment out of the heat.
Stay inside in air-conditioning when it’s hottest.
Wear loose, light clothing.
Get medical attention for heat-related illness.
Make a plan in case you lose power.
Have a go-bag ready for emergencies.

Read more details for managing summer heat here.