Yesterday, I was discussing the seasons with my son and now that it’s March we’d soon be able to see flowers blooming. However, this morning, we woke up to this!

I love a bit of snow but I always have to take into consideration, how the colder weather will affect my BG levels. In most conditions, whether it’s hot, humid or cold, my BG levels always drop. So I knew I had to prepare myself, especially since I had the morning school run to do (which also meant I’d be driving) so yet another reasons to make sure my BG levels were under control. With all of this in mind, I’ve put together a list of tips on how to manage BG levels in the colder weather.

Test, test, test don’t guesstimate:
The cold weather can definitely affect your levels, so always remember to check your BG levels often. Frequent testing will allow you to avoid any high or low BG levels. Test before you leave the house. When I drive, I always make sure my BG is around 7mmol/l so today I started at 7.8mmol/l.

A few hours after school run……..

Stay warm:
Make sure you’re dressed in warm clothing. Wearing gloves will help to keep your fingers warm so that when you need to test your BG level your fingers aren’t completely frozen. Try to warm them up before testing so you are able to get enough blood. Although I had gloves on this morning, my hands were still a little cold, so I used the car heater to warm them up. Also make sure you wear comfortable and warm shoes with a good grip that will protect your feet and keep them warm to ensure good circulation. Keep your feet well moisturised and check them regularly for any cuts or cracks etc.

Glucose:
Make sure you take some form of glucose with you when you leave the house. Choose glucose that will not freeze in the car. You need something that is easy to access in case of a low BG. I have a secret draw in my car where I hide snacks and juice boxes just etc. Just in case my BG decides to drop.

Protect your insulin and devices:
Just like hot weather, the cold weather can also affect your diabetes accessories. If you wear an insulin pump, wear the pump close to your body, under layers of clothing. In extreme weathers, insulin can break down and become ineffective. Also make sure your BG meter is in its case. I usually wrap it in a towel, if I’m travelling in the car for a long period of time in the cold.

Stay active:
The cold weather can make you want to just snuggle up in a nice warm blanket with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Nevertheless, you should try to keep yourself active during these colder temperatures. When you move around it will help to keep BG levels lower even when the weather isn’t a factor. Just because its cold and snowing outside doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the weather. I like to play in the snow with my children, building snowmen and throwing snow balls.Exercise is key!

Cutting back:
Because my BG levels like to drop, this usually means I have to adjust my basal rates. If you notice a change in your levels then contact your healthcare team so they can help you adjust your rates.

 

Amina xx