Disaster Prepping for Diabetics
In the wake of natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina and Sandy, the importance of preparedness for people with diabetes, particularly those living with type 1 diabetes, becomes starkly evident.
The challenges faced in these scenarios underscore the need for a well-thought-out 3 day plan covering everything from medication management to meal planning. This guide aims to encompass all aspects of diabetic prepping, ensuring safety during emergencies.
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Medication and Diabetes Supplies Management:
For those dependent on insulin, such as individuals with type 1 diabetes, ensuring a steady supply is critical. Key strategies include:
- Prescription Stocking: Secure prescriptions in advance and consider using international pharmacies for additional stash.
- Insulin Storage: Keep insulin refrigerated. In the absence of electricity, consider using a 12v refrigerator in a camper or car battery-powered cooler to keep things chilled.
- Backup Supplies: Always have backup supplies like lancets, strips for your glucose meter, and extra batteries or a battery charger for your devices.
Emergency Kits:
An emergency kit for someone with diabetes should include:
- Medications: Insulin (if required), oral diabetes medications, and any other prescription drugs.
- Blood Sugar Management Tools: Glucose meter, test strips, lancets, and a charger.
- Food Supplies: Low-carb snacks, tubes of cake icing for possible lows, and non-perishable items like whole grains and canned goods. Picking the right storage container is crucial.
- Hydration: Store enough water to stay hydrated, especially during hot or seasonal conditions.
Diabetic Dietary Considerations:
Developing a low-carb or ketogenic meal plan can be beneficial for managing blood glucose levels during emergencies. Consider packing:
- Non-perishable Low Carb Foods: Nuts, seeds, canned fish, and meats. Make note of when they expire. Rice and Beans are a must-have in your prepper store!
- Fresh Options: If possible, include fresh low-starch vegetables like salad in a bowl for nutrient intake.
- Carbohydrate Monitoring: Keep track of the amount of carbs in each meal, and ensure options for those trying to maintain a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
Exercise and Activity Management:
Maintaining physical activity is crucial. Resistance bands can provide a great way to maintain strength and flexibility when access to traditional gym equipment is limited.
They are lightweight, portable, and can provide a full-body workout. Some exercises you can do with resistance bands include bicep curls, shoulder presses, squats, lunges, and tricep extensions.
In addition, bodyweight exercises such as push-ups, squats, lunges, planks, and burpees can be effective in maintaining strength and cardiovascular fitness. These exercises require minimal space and no equipment, making them suitable for a camp or shelter setting.
Long-Term Storage and Prepping:
For prolonged emergencies, consider:
- Freezer Storage: Use a freezer to store insulin, but ensure it doesn’t get below freezing point (32 degrees F).
- Gardening: Start a garden for sustainable food sources, focusing on low-carb, high-nutrient produce.
- Stockpiling: Build a stash of diabetes supplies for a 3-4 weeks’ supply at a minimum.
Special Considerations for Different Types of Diabetes:
Type 1 and type 2 diabetes require different approaches:
- Type 1 Diabetes: Life with type 1 diabetes might even require a more extensive supply of insulin and equipment like a basal insulin pump.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Focus on stocking foods that align with a low-carb diet, and be aware of the need to add more whole grains and less starchy foods.
Support for Loved Ones:
Natural disasters and emergencies are unpredictable, If you have a loved one with diabetes, consider:
- Packing for Them: Include their supplies in your emergency kit.
- Educating Yourself: Understand their food plan and medication schedule, and the complexities of living with diabetes.
- Stay Informed: Be aware of situations like power outages or limited access to pharmacies that could impact your preparedness plan.
Consultation with Healthcare Providers:
Always ask your doctor for personalized advice regarding medicinal adjustments or diet changes in emergency scenarios. Your life, and helping people, depend on the right information and preparedness.
