Lost in thought while eating watermelon and Korean melon, then shocked after checking HbA1c levels
Diabetic patients must pay special attention to their health management during the summer. This is because hot and humid weather makes blood sugar control difficult, which can increase the risk of complications. With the help of Dr. Chu Hyo-seon, a specialist in Family Medicine at Daejeon Seon Hospital, we examined summer health management methods for diabetic patients.
The most important thing to be careful about in the summer is food intake. The basic principle is to eat a balanced diet regularly. However, in the summer, lifestyle habits that exclude foods harmful to blood sugar management are emphasized more. Avoid consuming carbonated drinks like cola and soda, sports drinks, vitamin drinks, juice, sugary coffee drinks, shaved ice, ice cream, and sweet snacks like tanghulu.
Recently, many patients are visiting hospitals with elevated HbA1c levels after consuming seasonal fruits like watermelon and Korean melon. Fruit is a double-edged sword. Rather than eliminating it entirely, a dietary approach that limits intake is recommended. Practice moderation, such as consuming about two slices of peach or no more than twenty grapes. Avoid blending or juicing fruits, as they are low in fiber and cause blood sugar levels to rise more rapidly. It is also advisable to refrain from consuming noodle dishes commonly eaten in the summer, such as cold noodles (naengmyeon) and soybean noodle soup (kongguksu), as they can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels.
It is recommended to exercise consistently every day at a moderate intensity. Exercising after a meal helps prevent a rapid rise in blood sugar levels. On the other hand, you must be mindful of the risk of hypoglycemia when exercising on an empty stomach. When engaging in early morning workouts, a common practice on an empty stomach, it is recommended to eat a light snack beforehand to account for the risk of hypoglycemia. Avoid exercising between 1 PM and 3 PM, the peak of the day, and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Avoid sports drinks with added sugar during this time.
Proper insulin management is essential. Particular care must be taken with storage due to seasonal characteristics. Diabetic patients are generally instructed to store opened insulin pens at room temperature below 30 degrees Celsius. However, since temperatures often exceed 30 degrees during the summer, insulin should be stored in an insulated bag or tumbler filled with ice to maintain its efficacy. You must strictly avoid leaving insulin in a scorching hot vehicle. Unopened insulin should be refrigerated as usual. Since insulin is susceptible to degradation due to changes in ambient temperature caused by atmospheric pressure, it is recommended to carry any insulin you do not intend to use immediately in the carry-on baggage rather than storing it in the overhead compartment when flying during the vacation season.
In the summer, wearing short clothing or revealing shoes while engaging in outdoor activities can lead to injuries. Be especially careful when playing in the water. Wear aqua shoes or other footwear to avoid injuring your feet as much as possible, and check your feet carefully for any wounds after playing in the water.