ARLINGTON, Texas — Cookouts, pool parties and outdoor celebrations are common in the summer, but for people living with diabetes, navigating party food in the Texas heat can present unique challenges.

Barbecue sauces, marinades and sweetened drinks can be unexpected sources of sugar that cause blood glucose to fluctuate, said Erendira Gurrusquieta, B.S.N., R.N., CDCES, diabetes care and education specialist with Texas Health Resources.

Hot weather can also impact blood sugar levels and lead to dehydration. Additionally, essential diabetes supplies such as insulin, continuous glucose monitors and glucometers can lose effectiveness when exposed to extreme heat.

“During the summer, we often see patients with diabetes whose blood sugar has been affected by the heat,” said Joshua Holland, D.O., an emergency physician on the medical staff at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton. “It’s important to stay hydrated, pay close attention to your diet and recognize warning signs such as dizziness, weakness, confusion, nausea or vomiting, and seek medical care promptly.”

Watching portion sizes, choosing lean proteins and high-fiber grains, and limiting desserts are strategies to help avoid high blood sugar levels, Gurrusquieta said. Avoid skipping meals ahead of a gathering as this can result in drops in blood sugar. Bringing healthy options – vegetables or fresh fruit – to share with others at a party is another option, she said.

 “Managing diabetes is a journey,” Gurrusquieta said. “With a little planning and awareness, people with diabetes can participate in cookouts, travel and enjoy outdoor fun without feeling restricted.”

Safety tips

• Plan for the outdoor event or meal you are attending.
• Study the food options offered at the party, cookout or buffet.
• Stay hydrated with sugar-free fluids.
• Keep medications cool but not frozen.
• Avoid leaving supplies in hot environments, such as cars.
• Carry fast-acting glucose sources for low-blood-sugar episodes.
• Avoid alcohol and drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, sodas and energy or sports drinks.
• Check your blood sugar often.

More information about Texas Health medical resources is available online.

For medical needs that require quick treatment but are not life-threatening, patients can receive high-quality care at any of Texas Health Breeze Urgent Care’s 33 centers throughout North Texas, offering treatment 365 days a year from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more severe medical issues, Texas Health emergency rooms are open 24/7.

Information about Texas Health Breeze Urgent Care is available online at breezeurgentcare.texashealth.org/

To find a provider, schedule nearby care, reserve urgent care or access a video visit, check out Texas Health Connect.