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Summer Health Includes Managing Diabetes

Date: 07/06/22

Baton Rouge, La.

Summer is often a time to kick back and relax, but Louisiana Healthcare Connections wants to remind those living with diabetes that it’s not a time to get out of your routine for managing diabetes. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people living with diabetes get dehydrated more quickly, and extreme heat can change how your body uses insulin, so checking sugar levels more often is important.

In addition to the summer safety checklist below for those living with diabetes, Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge is offering a free diabetic clinic designed to help individuals lose weight and reverse prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes in those already diagnosed. The clinic is specifically designed for people who have Medicaid health coverage to try to address the health disparities they often face. Those interested can apply online at www.penningtondiabetesclinic.com or by phone at (225) 763-2789.

“Louisiana summers can be especially brutal for those living with diabetes,” noted Louisiana Healthcare Connections Chief Medical Officer Stewart T. Gordon. MD. “Heat along with our humidity make it harder for the body to cool, so it’s important to stay hydrated and be aware of your blood sugar. Depending on how you feel, you may need to check your sugars more often. It’s always a good idea to stay in regular contact with your physician and their team to guide you. Hurricane season is also upon us, so having a plan in place for emergencies is also key.”

In addition to your summer to-do list, see your diabetes summer checklist and stay safe this summer.

Diabetes Summer Checklist

  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Check and be aware of your blood sugar often.
  • Keep medicines, supplies, and equipment out of the heat.
  • Stay inside in air-conditioning when it’s hottest.
  • Wear loose, light clothing.
  • Get medical attention for heat-related illness.
  • Make a plan in case you lose power.
  • Have a go-bag ready for emergencies.

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About Louisiana Healthcare Connections

A Medicaid managed care organization, Louisiana Healthcare Connections was established in 2011 to provide the best benefits and programs possible in order to improve the overall health of the families and communities we serve. Today, we are a healthcare company focused on identifying and removing institutional barriers to good health with sustainable solutions that reduce health disparities and create health equity. Through a family of engaged employees, dedicated providers and diverse community partners, we deliver care for the health of all. For more information, visit www.louisianahealthconnect.com.