7 Tips for Managing Your Diabetes in Extreme Summer Heat
Sep 26, 2025
Summer sunshine does wonders for your mood, stress levels, and energy levels. If you have diabetes, however, it can also increase your risk of serious complications, like blood sugar spikes and heat stroke.
Understanding how to manage diabetes in extreme heat is key to enjoying summer fun without compromising your health. With locations in the Navy Hill and Williamsburg neighborhoods of Brooklyn, New York, our board-certified physicians at Tru Medical Management want you to feel confident in your summer activities.
Here’s how heat affects diabetes and seven tips to help you manage your condition when it’s hot out, so you can continue enjoying your summer worry-free.
Heat and humidity cause a ripple effect that can exacerbate diabetes complications. High temperatures affect how your body uses insulin, increasing your risk of either high or low blood pressure. Typically exercise lowers your blood pressure, but the combination of exercise and heat may cause it to spike.
People with diabetes face a higher risk of dehydration because elevated blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to work harder, leading to increased urination and fluid loss.
Damaged nerves and blood vessels can also make you more sensitive to humidity. When the nerves in your sweat glands don’t work properly, your body can’t cool itself down efficiently — especially when it’s humid (high moisture in the air).
This impaired cooling mechanism, combined with increased fluid loss, creates a dangerous cycle where dehydration becomes more likely and harder to recognize.
Taking proactive steps to protect yourself during hot weather can prevent serious complications and keep your blood sugar stable. These simple strategies will help you stay safe while still enjoying everything summer has to offer.
Thirst isn’t always a reliable indicator of dehydration, especially for people with diabetes. Aim to drink water consistently throughout the day, and increase your intake when you’re active or spending time outdoors. Avoid waiting until you feel parched to hydrate.
Heat stress can cause unpredictable blood sugar fluctuations, making your usual patterns less reliable. Monitor more frequently during hot weather to catch any spikes or drops early. This is especially important before and after any physical activity or extended time outdoors.
Schedule your workouts for early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler, typically before 10 am or after 6 pm. If you must be active during the day, choose shaded areas and take frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces.
Heat can damage insulin, glucose meters, and test strips, making them less effective or inaccurate. Never leave supplies in hot cars, direct sunlight, or unventilated areas. Consider using a cooling case for insulin when traveling or spending extended time outdoors.
Alcohol and caffeine can contribute to dehydration and affect your blood sugar control. They can also interfere with your body’s natural temperature regulation. If you do consume these beverages, balance them with extra water intake.
Heat stress can trigger unexpected drops in blood sugar, especially if you're more active or sweating heavily. Pack glucose tablets, crackers, or other quick-acting carbohydrates to treat low blood sugar episodes promptly.
Sunburn creates additional stress on your body and can raise blood sugar levels. Choose loose-fitting, light-colored clothing that allows air circulation, and don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to prevent overheating and skin damage.
Managing diabetes during hot weather can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our team at Tru Medical Management is here to help you create a personalized diabetes management plan that works for your lifestyle and the changing seasons. Call us today or book your appointment online to keep your health on track, even in extreme heat.