Hiking When You Have Diabetes: Helpful Hints for Diabetic Hikers

Diabetics need to get in regular exercise. Hiking would be a great exercise in which diabetics could partake. There are a few things a diabetic needs to remember when hiking.

1. Always take snacks along on a hike. Getting half way through a hike and having your blood sugar drop with no way to bring it back up wouldn't be a good idea at all. Make sure to bring glucose tabs or snacks of your choice that will quickly raise your blood sugar back to normal. It's easy to pack small snacks in your hiking pack.

2. Drink plenty of water. Diabetics need to stay hydrated at all times. Hiking is hard work and requires even more water than normal. Take bottled water if you are going on short hikes, or get a hydration pack for longer treks.

3. Plan lunch breaks. It's always a good idea for diabetics to know the route the hike is taking and have a stopping time and place planned out ahead of time. Diabetics should eat at set intervals every day. There is no reason to veer off your schedule just because you are hiking. Make sure to pack all the cooking utensils and implements for the hike. There are small pots and pans made specifically for hiking that you can purchase. These won't add too much extra weight to your pack.

4. Wear comfortable shoes. Diabetics have to take special care of their feet. You should go to a reputable outdoor sporting goods store and have hiking boots fitted especially for your feet. A blister can be deadly for a diabetic, so properly fitting hiking shoes are a must!

5. Wear loose fitting clothing. This is a good rule for every hiker but especially diabetic ones. Diabetics need to keep blood flow unrestricted at all times. Making sure your clothes are loose and comfortable will aid in movement helping to avoid falls also. Diabetics should avoid cuts and sores at all cost, so falls are something to be avoided whenever possible.

6. Use hiking poles. Hiking poles help with balance and stability so they are another tool to use to keep you upright and avoid cuts and bruises. Hiking poles also make the hike easier on joints and muscles. Making the hike more enjoyable and less painful will make you want to go more often and lead to regular exercise.

7. Change your socks. Diabetics are supposed to keep their feet dry at all times. While hiking socks can get wet from sweating. It's a good idea for diabetic hikers to change their socks often during a hike. If possible, buy socks designed for hikers that offer wicking. These socks help keep moisture away from the skin.

8. Remember all medications. Don't forget your insulin or medications when going on a hike. Always remember to take shots or medication at the prescribed time. Set a timer on your watch or phone if need be so that you will not fall behind on your medication schedule.

9. Take a first aid kit. In case you do fall or get hurt in some way always make sure to have a first aid kit in your pack. There are various sized first aid kits available. Pick the one best suited to the number of people in your hiking party. It's a good idea for a diabetic hiker to have their own personal first aid kit also.

10. Never hike alone. Diabetics have to take extra precautions because of the nature of their disease. A diabetic can have complications and hypoglycemic episodes that require immediate attention. For this reason it is always best for diabetics to hike with a partner.

Diabetics can enjoy hiking and spending time in the outdoors. Diabetic hikers just have to make sure and plan everything in advance and follow certain procedures to insure a happy and safe hike. Get out and enjoy nature, exercise to improve your diabetes, and have fun!