Temperatures are soaring, and heatwaves are becoming an unavoidable reality. April felt unusually scorching across India, with both small pockets and large swathes experiencing heatwave conditions, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Unfortunately, it seems 2024 is gearing up to be even hotter, building on last year’s record-breaking temperatures. This trend isn’t just a local issue; it’s part of a global pattern that saw 2023 rank as the hottest year ever recorded. So, as the mercury climbs, staying cool and safe becomes more crucial than ever. Dr. Supriya Dutta, MBBS, Diabetologist, MD Polyclinic, Girish Park, Kolkata said, “Maintaining a healthy routine is essential for managing diabetes, but the summer months often bring disruptions. Changes in daily habits can lead to lapses in following a diabetes-friendly diet or checking blood glucose levels on time. Additionally, during heatwaves, people living with diabetes are at a higher risk of dehydration, especially if their blood glucose levels are uncontrolled. To effectively balance blood sugar levels, it’s important to consider measures like continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). CGM devices, compatible with smartphones, offer real-time monitoring even while on the move, preventing routine changes from compromising diabetes management.”
Diabetes patients face unique challenges due to increased summer temperatures and heatwaves, which can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and difficulty maintaining blood sugar levels. This makes them more sensitive to high temperatures and humidity, making them more susceptible to these conditions. Therefore, it’s important to remain vigilant as heatwaves can disrupt daily routines and impact overall diabetes management. Diabetes patients should maintain their blood sugar levels within the recommended range of 70-180 mg/dl, especially during summer. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices can help achieve this by providing real-time information on glucose levels without the need for finger pricking. Regular readings can lead to more time spent in the optimal range, thereby improving glucose control. To combat heatwaves and manage diabetes, follow these four straightforward steps:
1. During heatwaves, maintain hydration by drinking plenty of water, even if not thirsty, to prevent dehydration, regulate blood sugar levels, and flush toxins from the bloodstream. Diabetes patients are more susceptible to dehydration due to increased water loss, especially during hot weather. Insufficient fluid intake can elevate blood sugar levels, leading to increased urination and dehydration. On average, a person should consume at least 2 liters of water daily.
2. During a heatwave, it’s crucial to regularly monitor blood sugar levels. Advanced devices like FreeStyle Libre allow you to stay updated on glucose trends around the clock, providing real-time alerts if necessary. This ensures you don’t experience sudden spikes or crashes. It’s recommended to stay in the optimal glucose range for about 17 out of 24 hours daily.
3. To maintain a healthy diabetes lifestyle, it’s crucial to plan exercise wisely. Avoid outdoor activities during hot weather and opt for indoor exercises or yoga. Exercise outside during early morning or late evening hours, but opt for an indoor gym or home-based stretches during hot temperatures.
4. During summer, people with diabetes should maintain a balanced, healthy diet. High-fiber vegetables and leafy greens like celery and brussel sprouts can help regulate glucose levels. Citrusy fruits like oranges, lemons, and aamla, rich in vitamin C, can strengthen the immune system and help regulate glucose levels. Avoid consuming ice cream and slushies, and focus on a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Summertime offers relaxation and carefreeness, but diabetes can hinder it. By managing this lifestyle disease, individuals can control their health, live fully, and enjoy the season.
