Diabetes can seem overwhelming with medication to manage, blood sugars to monitor and lifestyle changes to keep up with. The good news is that small, consistent steps can make a big difference.
Understand Your Medications
Whether you have type 1 or 2 diabetes, medicines are vital. They help lower your blood glucose levels, prevent complications and improve quality of life. If you’re taking insulin, learn how to use it correctly (how and where to inject it, how to rotate sites and how to store it properly).
If you are on tablets, know when to take each medicine, what the side effects are and what to do if you miss a dose. Pharmacists can also help check for interactions with other prescriptions or supplements you might be taking.
Check Your Blood Glucose Regularly
Monitoring your blood glucose tells you how food, exercise, stress and medication are affecting your sugar levels. If you use a glucometer, make sure you know how to use it properly and that your strips are in date. If you’re using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), know how to calibrate and interpret your data. Tracking your readings helps your healthcare team adjust your treatment plan and gives you more confidence in managing your diabetes.
Know the Signs of High and Low Blood Sugar
Understanding the symptoms of hypoglycaemia (low) and hyperglycaemia (high) can literally be lifesaving.
Low blood sugar (below 4 mmol/L) can cause sweating, trembling, dizziness, confusion or hunger. Always carry a quick source of glucose like jellybeans and have a small snack after with carbohydrates and protein to stabilise your levels.
High blood sugar (above 10 mmol/L consistently) might make you thirsty, tired or cause frequent urination. If it happens often, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about possible adjustments to your medicine or diet.
Look After Your Diet
Healthy eating is one of the most powerful tools you have, but that doesn’t mean you can never enjoy your favourite foods again.
- Focus on whole foods: vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats.
- Watch your carbohydrate portions, especially refined carbs like white bread or sugary drinks.
- Choose high-fibre foods to slow down glucose absorption and keep you feeling full longer.
- Stay hydrated with water.
Stay Active and Manage Stress
Physical activity helps your body use insulin more effectively, improves circulation and boosts your mood. Aim for 30+mins of moderate activity most days. Stress can also affect blood sugar levels. Try mindfulness, breathing exercises or making time for hobbies.
Keep Up with Regular Health Checks
Diabetes can impact your eyes, kidneys, heart and feet. Regular health checks can catch problems early when they’re easiest to treat.
Managing diabetes is a team effort, and your pharmacist is one of your most accessible healthcare professionals. Many pharmacies now offer medication reviews, blood pressure checks, vaccinations, answer questions and help you stay on track between doctor’s visits.