After living with Type 1 diabetes for more than 24 years, I’ve tried just about every low blood sugar treatment you can think of. Over the years, I’ve found a few favorites that I always keep stocked in my diabetes bag.
Before we dive in, I want to mention that everyone’s diabetes management is different. These are simply the low-blood-sugar treatments that have worked best for me over the years. Always follow the recommendations from your healthcare team to find what works best for you.
🧃 Capri Sun Juice Pouches
Capri Sun juice pouches are one of my favorite ways to treat low blood sugar. They’re easy to pack, easy to drink, and provide a quick source of carbohydrates when I need them most. I also love that I can finish one quickly without having to chew anything if I’m feeling shaky.
I always make sure I have a few packed whenever I travel, and I even keep a box of Capri Sun juice pouches within easy reach in my vehicle. Knowing they’re there gives me peace of mind, whether I’m heading out on a road trip or simply running errands around town.
🍓 Welch’s Fruit Snacks
Welch’s Fruit Snacks are another staple in my diabetes bag. They’re portable, don’t require refrigeration, and are easy to toss into my purse, backpack, or carry-on. They also hold up well while traveling and don’t get crushed as easily as some other snacks.
I keep a few packs tucked away in my purse, work bag, park bag, and even our boat bag so I always have a quick treatment close by. They’re one of my favorite options when I’m on the go.
💊 Glucose Tablets
No matter where I’m headed, glucose tablets are always with me. They may not be the tastiest option—in fact, they’re a little chalky—but they’re one of the most reliable ways I know to treat a low blood sugar.
One of the biggest reasons I keep them on hand is that I know exactly how many carbohydrates I’m getting every time. That consistency gives me confidence when I’m treating a low blood sugar and helps me avoid over-treating. Even if I have other low snacks with me, you’ll almost always find a tube of glucose tablets tucked away in my diabetes bag because they’re a backup I know I can count on.
One thing you’ll quickly learn about me is that I like to be prepared. Whether it’s keeping a box of Capri Sun in my vehicle, fruit snacks tucked away in just about every bag I own, or glucose tablets in my diabetes bag, having these low blood sugar treatments close by gives me confidence wherever life takes me.
Living with Type 1 diabetes has taught me that being prepared doesn’t have to hold you back—it gives you the freedom to say “yes” to new adventures.
I’d love to hear from you! What are your go-to low blood sugar treatments? Is there something you never leave home without? Let me know in the comments—I’m always looking for new ideas from the diabetes community.