Don’t Get Caught in a Winter Storm Without Emergency Food!

The stress of being stranded in a vehicle can play havoc on a type 2 diabetic’s blood sugar.

Photo by Herbs from Home

The last thing a newly diagnosed type 2 diabetic has on their mind is an emergency food parcel to overcome hours or the unthinkable — days in an automobile during a winter storm.

These tips can help keep a person with type 2 diabetes retain alertness during an urgent situation so they can reduce the stress and fatigue they may endure.

1. Food and beverage for maintenance (15 grams of carbohydrates is one serving).

• A sealed gallon of water.
• Diabetic supplement bars providing carbohydrates, protein, fat, and fiber content. Read individual food labels for nutrition details.
• A homemade mixture of dried fruit, shredded wheat, and seeds providing approximately 35 grams of carbohydrate, 7 grams of protein, 9 grams of fat, and 5 grams of fiber.

1/8 cup of dried fruit.

1/8 cup of hulled sunflower and pumpkin seeds.

1/2 cup Shredded Wheat spoon size (no added sugar).

Mix and pour into a zip lock baggie. If more servings are desired, double, or triple recipe as desired and keep each amount in a separate baggie. (I take this mixture on every road trip.)

2. Low blood sugar:

• A bag of hard candy. Eight to nine hard candies provide approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
• EpiPen for a severe hypoglycemia episode. (Prescription only -discuss with your primary care physician.)

Place all items (except the gallon of water) in a clean insulated bag or carry case ready to go with you.

When placing the bag in the vehicle, keep within a safe and easy reach from the driver’s seat.

3. A monthly checkup should include a review:

• Expired dates.
• Food spoilage.
• Packages and containers that have broken open.

Simply put, the smallest amount of food and fluid can mean everything to a type 2 diabetic in a vulnerable state.

Always carry diabetes medical identification (bracelet or written form).

Thank you for reading. :-)

References:
American Association of Diabetes Educators, Cornell, S., Halstenson, C., & Miller, D. K. (2019). The Art and Science of Diabetes Self-Management Education Desk Reference (4th ed.). American Association of Diabetes Educators.

Disclaimer: My food and nutrition articles are for informational purposes only. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and orders.