Caring For Yourself When Sick

If you have diabetes, it’s important to have a plan for the days that you’re sick. Illness affects your blood sugar control, and blood sugar can become very high. When you’re sick, the most important things are to take your diabetes medications as prescribed, check your blood sugar frequently, and drink plenty of fluids.

Sick Day Rules:

• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Eat regular meals, if you can.
• If you’re having trouble keeping food down, drink calorie containing liquids, such as regular soda, fruit juice, popsicles, or sherbert.
• Try to eat soft foods, such as jello, soup, hot cereal, applesauce, or pudding.
• Do not stop taking your insulin.
• If you take diabetes pills, talk to your doctor or diabetes educator.
• Check your blood sugar regularly (four to six times a day).

If you can’t keep down any food or liquids, call your doctor.