Travel safety with diabetes
Traveling with diabetes requires special preparation to fully enjoy your trip safely. From managing medication and diet to dealing with time zone changes and unexpected medical issues, going abroad with this chronic condition can raise many questions.
As travel returns to near-normal levels, a 2023 Liligo study conducted by OpinionWay revealed that 62% of French people were planning summer vacations, with 44% intending to go abroad. In this context, travelers with diabetes need to be extra vigilant to ensure a smooth journey without compromising their health. In 2021, more than four million French citizens were affected by this condition.
With a few simple precautions, it is entirely possible to enjoy a wonderful adventure without letting diabetes spoil the joy of discovery.
Diabetes and travel habits
Diabetes is often referred to as a silent disease because its main indicator—your blood sugar level—cannot be seen or felt. Prediabetes occurs when the body’s cells gradually become less responsive to insulin, leading to a buildup of glucose in the bloodstream. Over time, this can develop into type 2 diabetes and lead to various health complications.
For some, the first symptoms of diabetes may include chronic thirst and frequent urination, fatigue, dizziness, and painful tingling in the hands and feet. Recognizing these subtle signs can motivate individuals to make necessary lifestyle changes before symptoms worsen or to see a doctor for a blood test to confirm a diabetes diagnosis. Diabetes can make traveling more complex due to the need for a consistent diet; increased physical activity during travel can also cause blood sugar imbalances, making early diagnosis and proper management essential.
If you’ve been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, there are a few precautions you should take when planning your next trip. Here are some tips:
How travelers can manage diabetes
Food
According to Euromonitor International, France ranked third in Europe in terms of fast food sales, totaling 19 billion euros.
However, while it may be difficult to find and prepare healthy food, it is essential to break free from the convenience of ordering food online, said nutritionist Patrick Sérog. Going on vacation means trying dishes that may not be available in your home country, so according to the nutritionist, letting go for a few days shouldn’t be demonized. However, such holiday habits can be balanced at home by eating vegetables, lean meats, aromatic herbs, and low-sugar fruits.
Avocado, citrus fruits, and pomegranate may have specific benefits for diabetics, such as lowering blood pressure or managing blood glucose levels after meals. If you indulge in red meat or simple carbs, adjust your dish by air-frying instead of deep-frying, and choose water instead of sugary drinks.
Exercise
A study by Ordnance Survey found that while most adults only reach their recommended 10,000 daily steps a few times per week, nearly two-thirds of respondents had visited a destination solely for a walk. At the same time, 19% had specifically taken walking holidays. Walking can become more appealing while on vacation due to the unique sights. Thus, diabetic patients can incorporate light physical activity into their itinerary by strolling to nearby destinations.
Daily exercise while traveling can also help you lose weight in a week, and when continued consistently even after your vacation ends, it can help you lose up to 20% more weight. Losing 1 kg per week through regular movement can assist in managing your condition. That said, overly intense physical activity—which can occur during certain excursions—may cause blood sugar levels to drop too quickly. In severe cases, this could lead to weakness or loss of consciousness.
Therefore, as mentioned in our previous article on travel safety tips. always inform your hotel reception or travel companions if you’re going out, what your route is, and when you plan to return.
Travel Tips
If you have diabetes, you likely need to carry insulin and other medications at all times, whether you’re on vacation or not. It is vital to ensure you have enough, preferably with extra, for the duration of your trip. According to Ancileo, only 50% of French international travelers purchase insurance. For those with diabetes, however, insurance coverage can be lifesaving in the event of a medical emergency abroad, so securing it may be wise. Make sure you have the phone number and address of the nearest hospital or healthcare facility to your accommodation.
Finally, do your best to establish a routine while you’re away. Routine changes can be frequent during travel, which can again cause blood sugar levels to spike. You can reduce travel-related stress by following a pre-planned itinerary and having backup plans in case of unexpected delays.
Traveling as a person with diabetes can be complex, but it’s not impossible. You can still enjoy your vacation and even indulge in food and fun if you keep the above tips in mind.
One Response
Thanks so much for covering this topic. Diabetes is a daily battle for millions and I definitely understand. I really appreciate your travel tips!