Traveling by air with diabetes requires thoughtful preparation and strategic planning to ensure both comfort and safety throughout your journey. Whether you're embarking on a business trip, vacation, or visiting loved ones, managing diabetes while flying presents unique challenges that can be successfully navigated with the right approach. Proper preparation can help prevent complications, maintain stable blood sugar levels, and make your travel experience more manageable and enjoyable. This comprehensive guide provides essential tips, practical strategies, and expert advice for flying with diabetes, covering everything from pre-flight preparation to post-arrival care.
Understanding the Challenges of Air Travel with Diabetes
Air travel introduces several factors that can affect diabetes management. Changes in routine, altered meal times, time zone differences, and the stress of travel can all impact blood sugar levels. The cabin environment itself presents challenges, including low humidity that can lead to dehydration, limited mobility during long flights, and restricted access to food and beverages. Additionally, security screening procedures require special consideration for medical devices and supplies. Understanding these challenges allows you to prepare effectively and maintain optimal glucose control throughout your journey.
The disruption to your normal schedule is one of the most significant factors affecting diabetes management during air travel. Your body's circadian rhythm, which influences insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, can be thrown off by early morning departures, late-night arrivals, or crossing multiple time zones. Flight delays and cancellations add another layer of unpredictability, making it essential to pack extra supplies and maintain flexibility in your diabetes management approach.
Comprehensive Pre-Flight Preparation
Consulting Your Healthcare Provider
Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider or endocrinologist at least two to four weeks before your planned departure. This consultation is crucial for discussing your travel plans in detail and ensuring your diabetes management strategy is optimized for air travel. Your doctor can review your current medication regimen, assess your overall diabetes control, and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. They can also provide guidance on managing blood sugar levels across different time zones and adjusting insulin doses if needed.
Request a detailed medical letter from your physician that describes your diabetes condition, lists all medications and medical devices you use, and explains why you need to carry syringes, insulin pens, or other supplies. This letter should be printed on official letterhead and include your doctor's contact information. Having this documentation can expedite security screening and prove invaluable if you encounter questions from airline staff or customs officials. Some healthcare providers can also provide prescriptions for your medications, which can be helpful if you need to obtain supplies while traveling.
Ensuring Adequate Medication and Supply Inventory
Calculate the total amount of medication and supplies you'll need for your entire trip, then pack at least double that amount. This buffer protects you against unexpected delays, lost luggage, damaged supplies, or changes in your itinerary. For insulin users, this means bringing extra vials or pens beyond what you would normally use. Similarly, pack additional test strips, lancets, continuous glucose monitor sensors, insulin pump supplies, and any other diabetes-related items you rely on daily.
Verify the expiration dates on all medications and supplies before packing. Insulin, in particular, has specific storage requirements and limited shelf life once opened. Check that your glucose meter is functioning properly and that you have fresh batteries or a charging cable. If you use an insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor, ensure you have backup supplies including extra infusion sets, sensors, adhesive patches, and insertion devices. Consider bringing a backup glucose meter in case your primary device malfunctions.
Strategic Packing for Carry-On Luggage
Always pack all diabetes medications, supplies, and medical devices in your carry-on luggage, never in checked baggage. The cargo hold of an aircraft can experience extreme temperature fluctuations that can damage insulin and other temperature-sensitive medications. Additionally, checked luggage can be lost, delayed, or mishandled, leaving you without essential supplies. Keeping everything with you ensures constant access and proper storage conditions throughout your journey.
Organize your diabetes supplies in a dedicated, clearly labeled bag or case that's easy to access during the flight and at security checkpoints. Use insulated cooling cases for insulin if traveling to warm climates or during summer months, but avoid freezing insulin by not placing it directly against ice packs. Include a comprehensive supply kit with your glucose meter, test strips, lancets, alcohol wipes, insulin or other medications, syringes or insulin pens, a glucagon emergency kit, fast-acting glucose tablets or gel, longer-lasting snacks, and any medical identification or documentation.
Preparing Appropriate Snacks and Emergency Foods
Pack a variety of snacks that can help manage both high and low blood sugar situations. For treating hypoglycemia, bring fast-acting carbohydrates such as glucose tablets, glucose gel, hard candies, or juice boxes. These items work quickly to raise blood sugar levels during an emergency. For sustained energy and preventing low blood sugar during long flights, pack protein-rich snacks like nuts, cheese, protein bars, or whole grain crackers with peanut butter.
Consider the duration of your flight and any potential delays when determining how much food to bring. For flights longer than three hours, pack enough snacks to cover at least two meals plus extra for unexpected situations. Choose non-perishable items that don't require refrigeration and comply with airline and security regulations. Avoid foods that are messy, strongly scented, or require utensils if possible. Having your own food supply gives you control over your carbohydrate intake and ensures you can maintain stable blood sugar levels regardless of airline meal service timing or availability.
Navigating Airport Security with Diabetes Supplies
Understanding Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines for traveling with diabetes supplies can help streamline the security screening process and reduce stress. The TSA allows passengers to carry diabetes-related supplies and equipment through security checkpoints, including insulin and other medications, syringes and insulin delivery systems, glucose meters and test strips, insulin pumps and supplies, and unlimited amounts of juice or liquid nutrition for treating low blood sugar. These items are exempt from the standard 3.4-ounce liquid restriction that applies to other carry-on liquids.
When approaching the security checkpoint, inform the TSA officer that you have diabetes and are carrying medical supplies. You can request a visual inspection of your diabetes supplies rather than sending them through the X-ray machine, though X-rays generally don't damage insulin or glucose meters. If you wear an insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor, notify the officer before screening begins. You can request a pat-down inspection instead of going through the full-body scanner if you're concerned about your devices, though most modern medical devices are safe to go through airport security scanners.
Keep your medical documentation easily accessible during security screening. Having your doctor's letter readily available can answer questions and verify your need for medical supplies. Place your diabetes supplies in a separate, clear bag to facilitate inspection if requested. Allow extra time for security screening, especially if you're traveling during peak hours or through unfamiliar airports. Arriving at the airport at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights provides a comfortable buffer for any security-related delays.
Managing Diabetes During the Flight
Maintaining Optimal Hydration
The low humidity in aircraft cabins, typically around 10-20 percent, can lead to rapid dehydration. For people with diabetes, dehydration can cause blood sugar levels to rise and make glucose control more difficult. Drink water regularly throughout the flight, aiming for at least eight ounces every hour during longer flights. Bring an empty reusable water bottle through security and fill it at a water fountain after clearing the checkpoint, or request water from flight attendants frequently during the flight.
Avoid or limit consumption of alcohol and caffeinated beverages during your flight. Both alcohol and caffeine have diuretic effects that can worsen dehydration and make blood sugar management more challenging. Alcohol can also mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia and cause delayed low blood sugar episodes, sometimes hours after consumption. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation, never on an empty stomach, and always monitor your blood sugar levels more frequently. Caffeine can affect blood sugar levels differently in different people, so be mindful of your individual response.
Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels Regularly
Check your blood sugar levels more frequently than usual during air travel. The combination of stress, altered routine, different meal times, and changes in physical activity can cause unexpected fluctuations in glucose levels. Test before boarding the plane, every two to three hours during the flight, and upon arrival at your destination. For flights longer than six hours, consider testing even more frequently, especially if you're sleeping during the flight or if you've consumed alcohol.
Keep your glucose meter and testing supplies easily accessible in the seat pocket in front of you or in a small bag under the seat. Don't hesitate to test your blood sugar whenever you feel symptoms of high or low blood sugar, even if it's not your scheduled testing time. Symptoms can include shakiness, sweating, confusion, dizziness, extreme thirst, frequent urination, or unusual fatigue. If you use a continuous glucose monitor, check it regularly and respond to any alerts promptly. Remember that CGM readings may have a slight delay compared to actual blood glucose levels, so confirm with a fingerstick test before treating suspected lows or highs.
Eating Strategically During the Flight
Maintain your regular eating schedule as much as possible, even if it doesn't align with airline meal service times. Eating small, balanced meals or snacks at regular intervals helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and prevents both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. If you're taking a meal-time insulin or other diabetes medication that depends on food intake, coordinate your medication timing with your meals carefully.
When airline meals are served, make informed choices about what to eat. Select options that include lean protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates while limiting simple sugars and refined carbohydrates. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, consider ordering a special meal when booking your flight. Many airlines offer diabetic meal options, though the quality and appropriateness can vary. Having your own snacks provides backup options if the airline meal doesn't meet your needs or if meal service is delayed.
Count carbohydrates carefully if you use carbohydrate counting for insulin dosing. Estimate the carbohydrate content of airline meals and your snacks, and adjust your insulin accordingly. Be conservative with insulin dosing during flights, as your activity level is reduced and you have limited options for treating low blood sugar if you overestimate. It's generally safer to run slightly higher than to risk hypoglycemia at 35,000 feet.
Staying Active and Promoting Circulation
Prolonged sitting during flights can lead to poor circulation, increased risk of blood clots, and difficulty managing blood sugar levels. People with diabetes are already at higher risk for circulation problems, making movement during flights especially important. Stand up and walk down the aisle every one to two hours during long flights. Even a brief walk to the lavatory and back can help improve circulation and glucose metabolism.
Perform seated exercises when walking isn't possible, such as during turbulence or when the seatbelt sign is illuminated. Ankle circles, calf raises, shoulder rolls, and seated twists can all help maintain blood flow. Flex and point your feet, rotate your ankles, and pump your legs up and down periodically. These simple movements can make a significant difference in your comfort and help prevent complications associated with prolonged immobility.
Consider wearing compression socks during your flight, especially for trips longer than four hours. Compression socks help promote blood flow in the legs and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis, a concern for anyone on long flights but particularly for people with diabetes who may have circulation issues. Choose graduated compression socks with appropriate pressure levels, typically 15-20 mmHg for air travel.
Adjusting Insulin for Time Zone Changes
Crossing time zones requires careful adjustment of insulin timing and dosing to maintain optimal blood sugar control. The strategy depends on whether you're traveling east or west, how many time zones you're crossing, and what type of insulin regimen you follow. For short trips of only a day or two, some people choose to stay on their home time zone schedule. For longer trips, gradually adjusting to the new time zone is usually preferable.
When traveling east and shortening your day, you may need less long-acting insulin. When traveling west and lengthening your day, you may need additional short-acting insulin to cover the extra hours. Work with your healthcare provider before your trip to develop a specific plan for adjusting your insulin regimen. This plan should account for your individual insulin sensitivity, typical blood sugar patterns, and the specifics of your travel itinerary. Keep detailed records of your blood sugar readings, insulin doses, food intake, and activity levels during travel to help identify patterns and make informed adjustments.
If you use an insulin pump, adjusting to a new time zone can be simpler. You can gradually shift your basal rate schedule to align with the new time zone, or you can change your pump's clock to the destination time zone upon arrival. Discuss the best approach with your diabetes care team. For continuous glucose monitors, remember to update the device time to match your new time zone to ensure accurate data tracking.
Special Considerations for Insulin Pump and CGM Users
If you use an insulin pump, continuous glucose monitor, or other diabetes technology, air travel requires some additional considerations. Most modern insulin pumps and CGMs are safe to wear during flights and through airport security, but it's important to understand how to protect your devices and maintain their function throughout your journey. Inform security personnel about your devices before screening begins, and request a pat-down if you're uncomfortable with your device going through body scanners, though most manufacturers confirm their devices are safe for airport security equipment.
Changes in cabin pressure during takeoff and landing can sometimes affect insulin pumps, potentially causing small air bubbles to form in the insulin cartridge or creating pressure changes that affect insulin delivery. Check your pump for air bubbles before takeoff and after reaching cruising altitude. Prime your pump if necessary to remove any air bubbles. Some pump users disconnect their pump during takeoff and landing to avoid potential pressure-related issues, though this isn't necessary for most modern pumps.
Bring backup supplies for your pump and CGM, including extra infusion sets, reservoirs, sensors, adhesive patches, and insertion devices. Pack supplies for at least one complete site change in your carry-on bag, with additional supplies in your checked luggage if you're checking bags. If your pump malfunctions during travel, you'll need to switch to insulin injections, so carry a backup supply of long-acting and rapid-acting insulin along with syringes or insulin pens. Know how to calculate appropriate insulin doses if you need to temporarily discontinue pump use.
For CGM users, be aware that sensor readings may be affected by pressure changes, dehydration, or positioning during the flight. Always confirm CGM readings with a fingerstick blood glucose test before treating suspected highs or lows. Bring extra sensors in case one fails or falls off during your trip. Keep your CGM receiver or smartphone charged and accessible throughout the flight to monitor your glucose trends continuously.
Post-Arrival Diabetes Management
Immediate Post-Flight Assessment
Check your blood sugar level as soon as possible after landing and before starting any new activities. The stress of travel, changes in routine, and potential dehydration can all affect your glucose levels in unexpected ways. This baseline reading helps you understand your current status and make informed decisions about food, medication, and activity as you begin your trip. If your blood sugar is outside your target range, take appropriate action to correct it before leaving the airport.
Take time to rehydrate after your flight, as you're likely somewhat dehydrated from the low-humidity cabin environment. Drink water steadily over the next few hours to restore proper hydration. Eat a balanced meal or snack if it's been several hours since you last ate, or if your blood sugar is trending low. Avoid the temptation to immediately dive into vacation activities or business meetings without first addressing your diabetes management needs.
Adjusting to New Time Zones
If you've crossed multiple time zones, begin adjusting your medication schedule to align with local time. Follow the time zone adjustment plan you developed with your healthcare provider before the trip. Continue monitoring your blood sugar levels more frequently than usual for the first 24-48 hours after arrival, as your body adapts to the new schedule. Jet lag can affect blood sugar control, so be patient with yourself and make adjustments as needed based on your readings.
Try to adapt to local meal times and sleep schedules as quickly as possible to help your body adjust to the new time zone. Exposure to natural daylight can help reset your circadian rhythm, so spend time outdoors during daylight hours at your destination. Avoid napping for long periods during the day, as this can make it harder to adjust to the new time zone and may disrupt your blood sugar patterns.
Restocking Supplies and Planning Ahead
Assess your remaining supply inventory soon after arrival and identify any items that need to be replenished. If you're staying at your destination for an extended period, locate nearby pharmacies where you could obtain supplies if needed. Research whether your insurance covers prescriptions filled at your destination, and carry copies of your prescriptions in case you need to purchase additional supplies. For international travel, be aware that insulin concentrations and medication names may differ from what you use at home.
Plan your diabetes management strategy for the activities you have scheduled during your trip. Consider how different activities might affect your blood sugar levels and what adjustments you might need to make to your medication, food intake, or monitoring schedule. If you're planning physically demanding activities like hiking, swimming, or extensive sightseeing, prepare strategies for preventing and treating low blood sugar. Always carry fast-acting glucose and identification indicating you have diabetes whenever you leave your accommodation.
International Travel Considerations
International travel with diabetes requires additional preparation beyond domestic flights. Research the healthcare system at your destination and identify hospitals or clinics that could provide diabetes care if needed. Consider purchasing travel health insurance that covers diabetes-related emergencies and medical evacuation if necessary. Some standard travel insurance policies exclude pre-existing conditions like diabetes, so read policies carefully and choose coverage that meets your needs.
Learn key diabetes-related phrases in the local language of your destination, such as "I have diabetes," "I need sugar," and "Where is the hospital?" Carry a translation card that explains your condition and lists your medications in the local language. This can be invaluable in emergency situations where language barriers might otherwise complicate care. Several diabetes organizations offer free translation cards for travelers.
Be aware that insulin concentrations may differ internationally. The United States primarily uses U-100 insulin (100 units per milliliter), while some countries use U-40 insulin (40 units per milliliter). Using the wrong syringe with the wrong insulin concentration can result in dangerous dosing errors. If you need to purchase insulin abroad, ensure you have the correct concentration and matching syringes. When possible, stick with the same insulin brands you use at home to avoid confusion and maintain consistent glucose control.
Research food options at your destination and learn about local cuisine to make informed choices about carbohydrate content and meal planning. Different cultures have different eating schedules and food compositions, which may require adjustments to your diabetes management routine. Having some familiarity with local foods before you arrive can help you make better decisions and enjoy your culinary experiences while maintaining good blood sugar control.
Emergency Preparedness While Traveling
Despite careful planning, emergencies can occur during travel. Prepare for potential problems by carrying a comprehensive emergency kit that includes a glucagon emergency kit for severe hypoglycemia, extra batteries for your glucose meter and other devices, a list of emergency contacts including your healthcare provider, copies of prescriptions and medical documentation, and medical identification such as a bracelet or necklace indicating you have diabetes. Store emergency contact information in multiple places, including your phone, wallet, and luggage.
Ensure your traveling companions understand the signs of both high and low blood sugar and know how to help you in an emergency. Show them where you keep your emergency supplies and how to administer glucagon if you become unconscious due to severe hypoglycemia. If you're traveling alone, consider enrolling in a medical alert service that can contact emergency services on your behalf if needed. Some continuous glucose monitors offer features that can alert emergency contacts if your blood sugar drops dangerously low.
Know the signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS), both serious complications that can develop if blood sugar remains very high for extended periods. Symptoms include extreme thirst, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fruity-smelling breath, confusion, and difficulty breathing. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Carry ketone test strips if you have type 1 diabetes, and test for ketones if your blood sugar is consistently above 240 mg/dL.
Working with Airlines and Accommodations
When booking your flight, consider informing the airline about your diabetes, especially if you require special accommodations. While not always necessary, notifying the airline can be helpful for very long flights or if you have specific needs. Some airlines offer diabetic meal options that can be pre-ordered when you book your ticket or up to 24-48 hours before departure. However, the quality and appropriateness of these meals varies significantly, so bringing your own snacks is still advisable.
Request an aisle seat if possible, as this makes it easier to get up and move around during the flight without disturbing other passengers. For very long flights, consider whether premium economy or business class seating might be worth the investment for the additional space and comfort, which can make diabetes management easier. Some people find that the ability to recline more fully and move around more freely justifies the extra cost for their health and comfort.
When booking accommodations, consider choosing hotels or rentals with refrigerators for storing insulin and other temperature-sensitive supplies. Many hotels will provide a small refrigerator upon request even if the room doesn't normally include one. If you're staying somewhere without refrigeration, use an insulated cooling case with ice packs to keep insulin at the proper temperature. Avoid freezing insulin, as this destroys its effectiveness.
Technology and Apps for Traveling with Diabetes
Modern technology offers numerous tools to help manage diabetes while traveling. Smartphone apps can help you track blood sugar readings, log food intake, calculate insulin doses, and identify carbohydrate content in restaurant meals. Many apps sync with glucose meters and continuous glucose monitors, providing comprehensive data tracking and trend analysis. Some apps offer features specifically designed for travelers, such as time zone adjustment calculators and medication reminders that adapt to new time zones.
Consider using apps that help locate nearby pharmacies, hospitals, and medical facilities at your destination. Translation apps can help you communicate with healthcare providers and read food labels in foreign languages. Cloud-based storage for your medical records, prescriptions, and doctor's letters ensures you have access to important documents even if physical copies are lost or damaged. Take photos of all your prescriptions and medical documentation and store them in a secure cloud service or email them to yourself for easy access.
Wearable diabetes technology like continuous glucose monitors and smart insulin pens can make travel management easier by providing real-time data and reducing the need for frequent fingerstick tests. However, always bring backup supplies and traditional testing equipment in case technology fails. Ensure all devices are fully charged before your flight and bring appropriate charging cables and adapters for your destination's electrical outlets.
Dealing with Common Travel Challenges
Flight delays and cancellations are common travel disruptions that require flexibility in diabetes management. If your flight is delayed, continue monitoring your blood sugar regularly and eating according to your normal schedule as much as possible. Use the snacks you packed to maintain stable blood sugar levels if meal times are disrupted. If a delay is extended or your flight is cancelled, you may need to adjust your medication timing. Having extra supplies becomes especially important in these situations.
Motion sickness and travel-related nausea can complicate diabetes management by making it difficult to eat or keep food down. If you're prone to motion sickness, take preventive medication before your flight. If you experience nausea or vomiting during travel, monitor your blood sugar more frequently and try to consume small amounts of easily digestible carbohydrates like crackers or ginger ale. If you're unable to eat your normal meals, you may need to reduce your meal-time insulin doses. Contact your healthcare provider if vomiting persists or if you develop signs of dehydration or ketoacidosis.
Stress and anxiety about travel can affect blood sugar levels, often causing them to rise. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music during your flight. Adequate preparation and having a solid plan for managing your diabetes can help reduce travel-related anxiety. Remember that minor fluctuations in blood sugar during travel are normal and expected. Focus on overall trends rather than individual readings, and don't let perfect become the enemy of good when it comes to diabetes management while traveling.
Resources and Support for Travelers with Diabetes
Numerous organizations provide resources and support for people with diabetes who travel. The American Diabetes Association offers comprehensive travel tips and guidelines on their website, including downloadable travel checklists and planning tools. The Transportation Security Administration provides detailed information about traveling with diabetes supplies and medical devices through airport security. Many diabetes device manufacturers offer travel-specific resources, including tips for using their products while traveling and customer support services available 24/7 for technical issues.
Online diabetes communities and forums can be valuable sources of practical advice from other travelers with diabetes. These communities allow you to ask questions, share experiences, and learn from others who have successfully navigated air travel with diabetes. Many experienced travelers are happy to share destination-specific tips and recommendations. Consider joining diabetes-focused social media groups or online forums before your trip to gather insights and advice.
For additional information about managing diabetes during travel, visit the American Diabetes Association's travel resources or consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's diabetes travel guidelines. These authoritative sources provide evidence-based recommendations and regularly updated information to help you travel safely and confidently with diabetes.
Building Confidence for Future Travel
Successfully managing diabetes during air travel becomes easier with experience. Your first trip may feel overwhelming, but each journey provides valuable lessons that make future travel smoother and less stressful. Keep detailed notes about what worked well and what challenges you encountered during each trip. Review your blood sugar logs after returning home to identify patterns and areas for improvement. This information helps you refine your travel strategy and build confidence in your ability to manage diabetes anywhere in the world.
Don't let diabetes prevent you from traveling and experiencing new places. With proper planning, preparation, and awareness, people with diabetes can travel safely and comfortably to virtually any destination. The key is to stay organized, remain flexible, monitor your blood sugar regularly, and not hesitate to adjust your management plan as needed. Remember that the goal is to enjoy your travel experience while maintaining reasonable blood sugar control, not to achieve perfect numbers at the expense of your enjoyment.
Start with shorter trips to build your confidence and refine your travel routine before embarking on longer or more complex journeys. Each successful trip reinforces your skills and demonstrates that diabetes doesn't have to limit your adventures. Many people with diabetes travel extensively for both business and pleasure, managing their condition effectively while exploring the world. With the right preparation and mindset, you can join them in experiencing all that travel has to offer.
Final Thoughts on Flying with Diabetes
Air travel with diabetes requires thoughtful preparation, but it's entirely manageable with the right approach. The key elements of successful travel include consulting with your healthcare provider well in advance, packing more than enough supplies in your carry-on luggage, understanding security procedures for medical devices, monitoring blood sugar levels frequently during travel, staying hydrated and maintaining regular meal times, remaining active during long flights, and being prepared to adjust your medication regimen for time zone changes. By following these guidelines and remaining flexible in your approach, you can maintain good diabetes control while enjoying safe and comfortable air travel.
Remember that every person with diabetes is unique, and what works for one traveler may not work for another. Work closely with your healthcare team to develop a personalized travel plan that accounts for your individual needs, medication regimen, and typical blood sugar patterns. Don't be discouraged if your first travel experience isn't perfect. Learning to manage diabetes while traveling is a skill that improves with practice and experience.
Most importantly, don't let diabetes hold you back from pursuing your travel goals. Whether you're flying for business, visiting family, or exploring new destinations for pleasure, proper planning and preparation enable you to travel confidently and safely. Millions of people with diabetes travel successfully every day, and with the comprehensive strategies outlined in this guide, you can join them in experiencing the joy and enrichment that travel brings to life. Safe travels, and may your journeys be filled with stable blood sugars, memorable experiences, and the confidence that comes from knowing you can manage your diabetes anywhere in the world.