How You Can Help

People with diabetes work closely with their doctors, diabetes educators, and dietitians to work out a very specific health plan. This can include what and how much to eat throughout the day, when to eat, how often to exercise, when to test their blood sugar, and if necessary, when to inject insulin or take medication.

Showing You Care

If you really want to help a person with diabetes, help them adhere to the plan outlined by their healthcare team, but understand that everybody slips up from time to time. You may not be able to make decisions for someone else, but you can...

• Learn everything you can about diabetes, self-care, and why blood sugar control is important. You may want to attend a diabetes education class with your friend or relative.
• Keep healthy snacks around. Don't try to tempt a person with diabetes with foods they shouldn't or don't want to eat. It's not okay, even "just this once.
• Eat the same meals. After all, a diabetes meal plan is based on a healthy eating plan for everyone-you may find yourself eating better, too.
• Praise their courage and commitment as they try to adapt to and stick with a diabetes-friendly lifestyle.
• Be understanding when they "slip up" and help them get back on track.
• Encourage them to wear a medical ID bracelet or necklace, in case of emergency.
• Join in the activity plan. Everyone benefits from an exercise buddy.
• Learn the symptoms of low blood sugar and how to treat it.
• Understand that even when a person does everything they're supposed to, blood sugar can be unpredictable.
• Stay flexible. Sometimes, diabetes requires a change in plans.

Of course, this doesn't mean you can't feel angry or frustrated from time to time. After all, diabetes affects you, too. If your friend or loved one doesn't seem to be practicing good self-care or you have concerns about the long-term effects of diabetes, you have a right to express your feelings. Just try to sit down together and discuss it in a constructive, caring way. But remember-you can't manage someone else's diabetes for them.