Diabetes

Living with diabetes can be challenging, but you’re not alone. Get practical advice, emotional support, and easy-to-understand guidance on managing diabetes and maintaining your health.

Diabetes is a condition that affects how your body manages blood sugar. Learning to live well with diabetes takes commitment, education and a caring team by your side. At TidalHealth, our team includes endocrinologists, certified diabetes educators, nurses and registered dietitians, all working together to help you take control of your health.

We know diabetes can feel overwhelming at times. That’s why we offer group and individual education sessions designed to help you learn more about managing your condition. Whether you have just been diagnosed or have been living with diabetes for years, these sessions focus on practical ways to improve your health and daily life.

Our services include support for adults and children with diabetes, guidance for those managing gestational diabetes, nutritional counseling and resources for learning about healthy eating, blood sugar monitoring and safe physical activity. We also provide training on diabetes medications and the use of continuous glucose monitors.

Education and support can make a real difference. You’ll also find monthly support groups for both adults and young people, so you don’t have to face the challenges of diabetes alone. Our approach is simple and straightforward, focusing on small, positive steps you can take each day.

At TidalHealth, we believe in meeting you where you are and helping you lead a healthy, active life with diabetes. If you have questions or want to find a diabetes specialist, our team is here to help guide you with warmth, understanding and practical advice.

Being diagnosed with diabetes can bring up many feelings — fear, shock, guilt or even anger. Some people may want to ignore the diagnosis at first or wonder if they did something wrong. These emotions are completely normal. The most important thing is to be gentle with yourself and remember that you are not alone.

Talking openly with your doctor, family or friends about how you feel can help. Building a support system may give you the encouragement you need to face changes in your daily life and make it easier to manage your diabetes.

It’s common to worry that life will be very different, but diabetes doesn’t have to control everything you do. With a few changes and some support, you can still enjoy what matters most to you. Focusing on positive outcomes and finding moments of laughter each day can help reduce stress and may even help lower your blood sugar.

Take things one day at a time. Learning to live well with diabetes is a journey. Your care team at TidalHealth is here to support you, offer understanding and give you the tools you need to take your next steps forward.

Eating Well with Diabetes

What you eat has a major impact on your blood sugar. Aim for regular meals throughout the day and avoid skipping them. Try to include a mix of vegetables, whole grains, fruits, low-fat dairy and lean meats. A variety of foods and mindful portions can help keep your blood sugar steady.

Carbohydrates affect your blood sugar the most. The “divided plate method” is an easy way to maintain balance:

  • Fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables such as salad greens, broccoli, green beans, cauliflower, cabbage or tomatoes.
  • One quarter of your plate should be lean protein, such as fish, skinless chicken, lean pork or eggs.
  • The last quarter is for a starchy food like pasta, rice, corn, peas or potatoes.

Add a small piece of fruit and a glass of low-fat milk to round out your meal. With this method, you don’t have to count carbs—you simply focus on balance and variety.

If you’re trying to lose weight, filling your plate with more non-starchy vegetables can help you feel full without too many calories. Setting small, realistic goals — such as losing 1 to 2 pounds a week — is best. Avoid fad diets or plans that eliminate entire food groups.

Getting Active

Physical activity is another key part of taking care of your diabetes. Moving more can lower your blood sugar, boost your energy and help you manage your weight. Exercise can also ease stress, lift your mood and keep you flexible as you age. Even if you’re new to being active, starting small can make it easier.

  • Choose activities you enjoy so you’re more likely to stick with them.
  • Set goals for how often and how long you want to exercise.
  • Start slowly and build up over time.
  • Make activity part of your routine by scheduling it like any other important appointment.

Remember, every little bit counts. Your TidalHealth team is here to help with meal planning, safe exercise tips and continued encouragement as you discover what works best for you.

Regular Exams

Why Regular Exams Matter

Staying on top of diabetes means keeping up with routine tests and checkups. These exams help you and your care team see how well your diabetes is managed and catch any concerns early. By tracking your exam dates and results, you can take an active role in your health and reduce the risk of diabetes-related problems.

Recommended Tests and Checkups

  • Daily: Check your feet yourself or with help from a caregiver.
  • At routine doctor visits: Have your blood pressure and weight monitored, and your doctor should check your feet.
  • Every 3 months: Get an A1C test if your blood sugar has been irregular.
  • Every 6 months: Have a dental exam. If your blood sugar has been stable, you may have your A1C checked during this period as well. Your doctor may also do a full physical, and your foot specialist may perform a comprehensive foot exam. Lipid panel testing may be included as recommended.
  • Every 12 months: Get a microalbumin test for kidney function, a dilated eye exam, a flu shot and at least one pneumonia shot if your doctor recommends it.

Keeping a log of your appointments and results can help you track your progress and stay on top of your goals. Your TidalHealth team is here to remind you when it’s time for these important checkups and to support you every step of the way.

Support & Resources

Your Diabetes Care Team

Managing diabetes is easier when you have a strong support system. Your care team may include your primary doctor, an endocrinologist, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, social workers, certified diabetes educators — and of course, your family and friends. This team can help you with:

  • Scheduling health care appointments
  • Making food choices and meal planning
  • Finding safe ways to be physically active
  • Checking blood sugar and using glucose meters
  • Managing medications
  • Strategies to cope with stress

TidalHealth Education and Support

TidalHealth offers group and individual education sessions, monthly support groups for adults and children and training on diabetes management tools. Our programs focus on helping you feel confident and in control of your self-care, from healthy eating to using glucose monitors.

Preparedness Tips

It’s important to be prepared for emergencies if you have diabetes. Keep in mind:

  • Have at least three days of supplies, including medications, testing tools, batteries and glucose tablets.
  • Keep a list of important phone numbers, such as your care team and pharmacy.
  • Store your supplies in a clear, waterproof, easy-to-carry container.
  • Wear medical identification so first responders know about your diabetes if you cannot speak for yourself.
  • Plan ways to store or prepare food if there’s no power, and keep non-perishable foods and bottled water on hand.

Helpful Organizations

  • American Diabetes Association (ADA)
  • American Heart Association (AHA)
  • Delaware Diabetes Coalition (DDC)

Your TidalHealth team is always here to support you with resources, answer your questions and offer guidance that is sincere, practical and caring.