Doctor advises diabetics to prepare for fall and winter challenges

GRAND FORKS — Doctors say now is the best time to prepare for the fall and winter if you have diabetes. Dr. Eric Johnson, a family medicine physician with Altru, says cold temperatures can stress your body, and that can lead to your blood sugar levels rising.

Johnson suggested diabetics stock up on supplies, such as food and insulin; those can be lifesaving efforts during a blizzard or bad snowstorm. He also said to make sure insulin does not freeze, which can make it less effective. When you're stuck in the house during the colder months, he also recommends doing physical activities and portioning your meals.



And be sure to check in with your healthcare team every three to six months. "If you haven't seen your provider in a while, this will be a good time to do that, as we approach fall and work our way into winter, because you may have some adjustments that need to be made that are seasonal," Johnson said..