Whether you’re newly diagnosed or just need a refresh, these 8 diabetes self-care tips will help you take charge of your health with confidence.
1. Diabetes self-care starts with checking your glucose—but don’t let it rule your day
Monitoring your glucose provides valuable feedback on how food, activity, stress, and sleep impact your body. Depending on your treatment plan, this may involve daily fingerstick testing or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Many people can’t feel when their glucose is above the target range; thus, testing is a critical diabetes self-care strategy to help you feel your best and prevent complications.
Tip: Instead of focusing only on individual numbers, look at trends over time. Aim to stay within your target range (typically 70-180mg/dL) 70% of the day or more.
2. Prioritize balanced meals—carbs count, but so does the whole plate
Carbohydrates affect blood sugar or glucose the most. However, it’s not just about reducing carbs—it’s about choosing the right ones and balancing them with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Include high-fiber carbs like vegetables, beans, and whole grains
- Pair carbs at meals and snacks with lean proteins and healthy fats
- Avoid skipping meals, as it can contribute to glucose peaks and valleys
3. Stay active—even a little movement helps
Exercise is one of the best ways to improve insulin sensitivity, or how well your body uses insulin. You don’t need to train for a marathon—walking after meals, stretching, or doing housework all count. Short on time? Try fitting in exercise snacks.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week (about 30 minutes, 5 days a week). Bonus: It’s also great for your mood, sleep, and weight management!
4. Care for yourself and your diabetes by staying hydrated
Did you know that even mild dehydration can raise glucose levels? Skip sugary drinks like soda and energy drinks (they spike blood sugar fast!). Opt for plain water, sparkling water, or unsweetened teas instead.
Tip: Keep a reusable water bottle with you during the day as a visual, earthwise reminder to hydrate.
5. Take medications as prescribed—even when you’re feeling fine
Skipping medications can lead to glucose spikes. If you're having side effects, trouble affording your meds, or can't remember to take them consistently, talk to your medical provider or diabetes educator. Usually, there are solutions, but your healthcare team needs to know what’s going on.
Tip: Set reminders or use a pill organizer to help you stay consistent.
6. Sleep: The unsung hero of blood sugar control
Not getting enough sleep or sleeping poorly can increase insulin resistance and the production of hunger hormones, making it harder to manage glucose.
Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night. Stick to a regular bedtime, limit screen time before bed, and establish a relaxing wind-down routine.
7. Manage stress
Stress raises cortisol levels, which can lead to elevated blood sugar levels. You can't always avoid stress, but how you respond to it matters.
Try deep breathing, walking, yoga, or a short meditation. Even 5 minutes of seated yoga at your desk can help!
8. Stay connected with your healthcare team
A vital part of diabetes self-care is keeping up with regular checkups to help identify minor issues before they turn into major ones. In addition to your primary care provider, you might also visit:
- A registered dietitian (especially one who’s a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, or CDCES)
- An eye doctor (diabetes can affect vision)
- A podiatrist for foot care
- A dentist (high glucose can harm teeth and gums)
- A pharmacist who can help review your medications.
Don’t hesitate to reach out between visits if something feels off—your care team is there to help.
Living well with diabetes is a doable marathon of self-care, not a sprint. Every healthy choice, whether it’s choosing water over soda or going for a walk after dinner, adds up.
Track your progress with MyNetDiary and give yourself credit — you deserve it!
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