Monsoon is a season associated with enjoying chai, dancing in puddles, and pakoras. Diabetes patients should avoid rainchecks and monitor their blood sugar levels using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices. These devices provide glucose level insights without finger pricking and offer metrics like Time in Range. Regularly checking readings can improve glucose control by ensuring a consistent range of glucose levels.
Dr. Bikas Rai Das, Sr. Consultant Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgeon, Apollo Hospital, Guwahati, emphasizes monitoring diabetes during rainy season for health and immune system support. Dr. Das said, “Therefore, monitoring is extremely vital during the rainy season, and this can be supported through solutions like continuous glucose monitoring (CGM).” Here are a few tips on how to enjoy the monsoon season while managing your diabetes this year:1. Regularly monitor blood sugar levels: Ensure regular glucose levels check during seasonal changes in exercise and diet routines. Monitor blood sugar levels regularly during this season, using wearable CGM devices like FreeStyle Libre. Maintain an optimal glucose range of 70-180 mg/dl for 17-24 hours daily to manage diabetes effectively.
2. Include immunity-boosting foods in your diet: Diabetes can compromise your immunity. People with diabetes should avoid eating outside, opting for home-cooked meals with immunity-boosting, antioxidant-rich foods, and avoiding raw food to reduce waterborne diseases. Wash leafy vegetables to prevent worms or bacteria.3. Keep your feet dry: Diabetes patients should prioritize foot care during this season, including washing after rain exposure and carrying extra socks. Wearing dry, clean shoes and avoiding puddles can help prevent fungal infections. Additionally, wearing comfortable shoes and avoiding puddles can help maintain good foot health.4. Don’t skip on exercise: The rainy season brings with it the feeling of wanting to sit and relax at home. But a short 30-minute workout or daily morning walk indoors, for example, can help immensely in maintaining blood-sugar levels.5. Stay Hydrated: Monsoons in India can cause dehydration due to humid and heat conditions. People with diabetes should ensure that they are consuming an adequate amount of water.6. Protect your eyes: Diabetics should wash hands before touching eyes, wear protective glasses, and undergo annual eye screenings to prevent eye infections.
