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DIABETES MANAGEMENT
Your go-to hub for tips, tricks, and real talk on living boldly with diabetes
What to Do Before Your Insurance Resets in January
If you live with diabetes, you probably know this feeling all too well: January hits, insurance resets, deductibles start over, and suddenly supplies that were affordable in December feel way more expensive in January. The good news is that a little planning before the end of the year can save you money, stress, and last-minute scrambling. This guide walks through practical steps you can take before your insurance resets so you can start the new year feeling prepared, not panicked. Why the Insurance Reset Matters For many insurance plans, January 1 means: Deductibles reset Out-of-pocket maximums reset Coverage tiers may change Prior authorizations may expire If you use insulin, CGMs, pump supplies, adhesive patches, or other diabetes essentials, these resets can impact both cost and access. Taking action in December can help smooth that transition. 1. Refill and Reorder Before December 31 If your plan allows it, refill prescriptions and reorder supplies before the end of the year, especially if you’ve already met your deductible. This can include: Insulin (vials, pens, cartridges) CGM sensors and transmitters Pump supplies (pods, infusion sets, reservoirs) Test strips, lancets, and backup meters Even refilling just one extra month of supplies can make January feel much easier while you wait for new deductibles to be met. 2. Use Remaining FSA or HSA Funds If you have an FSA (Flexible Spending Account) or HSA (Health Savings Account), now is the time to check your balance. Many diabetes essentials are eligible expenses, including: Adhesive patches like Skin Grip Skin prep wipes and adhesive removers CGM and pump accessories Glucose tabs and low supplies Medical storage and travel cases FSA funds often expire at the end of the year (depending on your plan), so using them now prevents money from going to waste. 3. Check Prior Authorizations and Coverage Dates Some prescriptions and devices require prior authorization that may expire at the end of the year. Before January: Confirm whether your CGM, pump, or insulin authorization carries into the new year Ask your pharmacy or supplier if anything needs to be renewed Contact your provider early if paperwork is required Starting this process in December helps avoid delays when offices reopen after the holidays. 4. Review Your Plan for the New Year If you’re changing insurance plans or employers, take time to review what’s covered starting in January. Look for: Preferred brands for insulin, CGMs, or pump supplies Pharmacy vs. durable medical equipment (DME) rules Changes to copays or coinsurance New requirements for mail-order pharmacies Even small changes can affect how and where you order supplies, so knowing ahead of time reduces surprises. 5. Build a January Buffer January can be unpredictable – insurance portals lag, pharmacies run behind, and customer service lines are busy. Before the year ends, aim to: Have at least one extra sensor or pod Keep backup low snacks stocked Carry extra adhesive patches in case devices need reinforcement Store supplies in more than one place (home, bag, car) This buffer gives you breathing room if something is delayed. 6. Save Important Information Take five minutes to save or update: Photos of your insurance card (front and back) A list of prescriptions and device model numbers Pharmacy and supplier phone numbers Provider contact info Keeping this info in your phone or email makes it easier to handle issues quickly if something comes up in January. 7. Be Kind to Yourself Insurance is complicated and diabetes is demanding. The combination can feel overwhelming, especially during the holidays. You don’t have to do everything perfectly. Even completing one or two steps from this list can make a meaningful difference. Preparation isn’t about control — it’s about creating ease where you can. Final Thoughts Insurance resets are frustrating, but they don’t have to derail your routine. A little planning now can help you start the new year with supplies on hand, fewer phone calls, and more peace of mind. Think of this as a form of self-care — one that supports your health, your time, and your energy in the year ahead.
Read moreThe Ultimate Diabetes Holiday Gift Guide
Living with diabetes can come with a heavy mental toll and often feels isolating and frustrating. With the holidays just around the corner, these gifts can help infuse some joy and thoughtfulness into managing diabetes. Whether you're shopping for someone with diabetes or need a little wishlist inspo for yourself, this list has something for everyone. Top Pick Gifts for Everyday Diabetes Life Glow Gummies — Fast-Acting Lows Rescue They’re tasty, portable, and effective. Glow Gummies use dextrose for rapid glucose support, so when a low hits, you’ve got a reliable treat that works fast. Made by and for the diabetes community, many love them for being easier (and tastier) on-the-go than traditional glucose tablets. Skin Grip Accessories — For Secure Devices All Day Skin Grip gear is a gift that says “I’ve got your back.” Options to consider: The Skin Grip “Grip Tin” — a handy container for patches (great for bags or travel) Skin Grip wipes — Alcohol Prep Pads, Barrier Wipes, and Adhesive Remover Wipes for painless prep and removal, especially in the winter season These small but vital tools help devices stay secure during workouts, sleep, daily wear, reducing the stress of adhesive failures. CGM Displays SugarPixel SugarPixel is a dedicated CGM display light that shows your glucose number, trend arrow, and changes at a glance. It’s perfect for nightstands, desks, or busy households where quick visibility matters. With customizable color modes and alerts, it’s also a great backup alarm for deep sleepers or anyone who needs an extra layer of awareness. A thoughtful gift for anyone who likes their glucose data easy, bright, and simple. Glowcose Glowcose is a glowing light that syncs with your CGM and bathes your room in soft color changes, letting you see when glucose levels shift without staring at a screen. It’s ideal for bedrooms or shared spaces where you want gentle visual alerts instead of loud alarms. For anyone who sleeps, lives, or moves around with diabetes, it’s a calm, vibey way to stay connected to your data all day. Travel & On-the-Go Convenience Frio Insulin Cooling Case Perfect for travel, summer days, or hot climates. Frio pouches keep insulin and supplies cool without needing batteries or ice packs, making them a go-to for people constantly on the move. Many in the diabetes community highlight these as essential for travel. Baggu Fanny Packs Discreet, functional, and easy to carry — a fanny pack or crossbody bag is ideal for storing CGM transmitters, test strips, low snacks, and quick-access items. Great for workouts, travel, daily errands, or busy days when pockets aren’t enough. Vial Safe Vial Safe cases help protect insulin vials (or pens) from breakage, humidity, or temperature swings. Handy for people traveling, commuting, or carrying supplies daily. Many diabetes gift lists recommend this for anyone who needs to keep insulin safe and accessible while on the go. Comfort, Confidence & Personal Style Lauren's Hope — Medical Jewelry & Accessories Lauren’s Hope offers bracelets, necklaces, and accessories that can also act as subtle medical-ID jewelry. For someone who wants to blend practicality with personal style, this is a thoughtful and often under-appreciated gift choice. Oura Ring (or Wellness Smart-Rings) — Holistic Health Meets Diabetes Life Beyond glucose, overall wellness matters. Smart-rings like Oura help track sleep, activity, readiness, and recovery. For many in the diabetes community, better sleep and recovery routines help stabilize daily glucose trends, making a wellness ring a surprisingly thoughtful gift. Bonus Picks Beyond the items above, there are tons of creative or practical gifts that people with diabetes actually ask for: Insulated water bottles or travel tumblers — hydration is key. Diabetes-friendly cookbooks, fun snacks, or subscription snack boxes Portable chargers — because there's always a battery threatening to run out mid-day while you’re out and about. Gift cards for self-care — Whether it's a massage or an sauna session, this is the perfect gift for people with diabetes to have an hour to focus on relaxing How to Pick the Right Gift When you’re choosing a gift for someone with diabetes, ask yourself: What’s their lifestyle? Are they always traveling, active, or at home? What devices or routines do they use? CGM, pumps, injections, pens — some gifts support certain setups better. What matters to them? Practicality, style, discretion, travel convenience, or wellness. What stage are they in? New diagnosis, experienced veteran, athlete, parent... gifts should match their needs. A thoughtful diabetes gift isn’t about “diabetes gear” — it’s about making their life smoother, easier, more secure, or a little brighter. Final Thoughts Diabetes is a constant in daily life, but the tools, accessories, and support you use don’t have to feel clinical or boring. Gifts like Glow Gummies, Skin Grip accessories, insulin coolers, stylish covers, and wellness wearables turn daily management into something manageable, meaningful, and even empowering. Whether you're shopping for yourself or someone else, these picks bring comfort, confidence, and a touch of joy to everyday diabetes life.
Read moreHolidays & Diabetes: How to Enjoy the Season with Confidence
The holiday season brings warmth, laughter, food, and time with people you love. But if you’re living with diabetes, you may also feel the extra pressure of managing blood sugars, unexpected meals or routines, and those conversations with family or friends who don’t always “get it.” This blog takes you through a fresh roadmap: how to set realistic priorities, pull in smart habits from previous years, use your tech and routine to support you, and how to talk with your loved ones so you can enjoy the moments without sacrificing your peace of mind. 1. Set Your Priorities (Without Perfection) Widen Your Lens The holidays are a high-variable environment. Shifting routines, your favorite holiday sweets, and unpredictable schedules can complicate your blood sugar management. Keeping your usual targets may lead to stress. Instead, widen your lens: allow a broader target range, adjust alarm thresholds (where safe), and give yourself permission to relax some rules. Choose Your “Minimum Viable Commitments” Rather than loading up on everything you usually do, pick one or two small habits you’ll commit to, like drinking water during a party, walking after a meal, or prebolusing. These small acts keep momentum without consuming your holiday. Pick One Focus Area When you check your CGM or device reports after the holidays, look for one pattern to improve next time (e.g., post-meal spikes or overnight lows) rather than trying to fix everything at once. This helps you progress without overwhelm or self-criticism. 2. Smart Habits for Mealtime & Routine No Skipping Resist the urge to skip meals early so you can “save carbs” for later. That often backfires. Your body stays hungry, decision-making gets harder, and your blood sugars may feel more unpredictable. Food Pairing & Stabilizers When you dive into holiday favorites, use protein + fiber + healthy fats along with carbs to help smooth blood glucose variability. Backup Gear Is Non-Negotiable Events, travel, food buffets—whatever your plan, have a backup kit. Spare patches, site/infusion sets, low snacks, water, etc. Be prepared for the inevitable variables of the season. Leverage Your Tech If you use a CGM or pump, review your reports (daily or weekly) with a light focus on trends, not perfection. With the help of your care team, consider adjusting your basal rates or correction factors if you know you’ll be a little less active or enjoying foods outside of your norm. Don’t be afraid to adjust the dials to help you stay connected and focused on enjoying the holiday. 3. Holiday Travel Check-In: Prep Makes a Difference If you are traveling for the holidays (even a quick 2–3 day trip), a little prep goes a long way. TSA + Airport Notes You can travel with all of your diabetes devices and supplies through TSA, just be sure to check with the manufacturer about whether or not your supplies can go through the full body scan. If you want to play it safe, request a pat down. You’re allowed a medical carry-on bag at no extra charge — this is huge because it means you don’t have to ration space or squeeze everything into one backpack. If you get pushback from a gate agent, gently remind them that you are entitled to carry an additional medical bag. You do not have to share any personal details about living with diabetes. Spread Out Your Supplies Instead of keeping everything in one bag, split your supplies between your bags (backpack + medical carry-on). If one bag gets delayed, you still have enough to get through. Bring More Than You Think You’ll Need Holiday travel is full of unpredictability — airport delays, extra meals, new routines. Having backup sensors, pump supplies, charging cables, low snacks, and a few spare Skin Grip patches means you stay connected and supported no matter what the travel day throws at you. Think of this as travel self-care. A little extra prep on the front end buys you freedom to be present when you finally get where you’re going. 4. How to Talk to People About Your Diabetes One of the trickiest parts of holidays can be conversations around diabetes. Family members or friends may make well-meaning but misinformed comments or ask questions that feel intrusive. Here are some polite, empowering ways to steer the conversation: ➤ Prepare A Short Script You might say: “Thanks for asking. I’ve got a system that helps me manage my diabetes (CGM + pump/patches). It’s part of how I stay well, so if I step out or snack mid-event, that’s why.” ➤ Educate Briefly, Then Redirect Example: “Yes, carbs matter, but so do all the other things you’re seeing like activity and sleep. I’ll be fine, I just might do something slightly differently. Now, tell me about your holiday tradition!” ➤ Set Boundaries with Grace If comments become intrusive: “I understand you’re curious, thanks, but I’m good with managing my supplies and numbers. Let’s just enjoy the party together.” ➤ Acknowledge Their Intent Often, comments come from love: “I know you care, so thank you. My routine might look a bit different but the goal is the same: to be present and have fun.” 5. Reflection & Learning for Next Year After the holiday, have a quick check-in with yourself: What went well? (e.g., I didn’t skip the meal, my device stayed put, I chatted with a friend about my devices). What surprised me? (e.g., dessert didn’t impact my blood sugars like I thought it would, my glucose was stubbornly high in the mornings, taking 15 minutes to myself helped lower my stress levels). What will I do differently next time? Focus on one small change rather than overhaul everything. These reflections set you up for next year with more confidence, less guilt, and better planning. Final Thoughts You deserve joy and connection this holiday season, and diabetes doesn’t have to overshadow that. By setting realistic expectations, leaning on your devices, prepping smartly, and communicating with the people around you, you can show up fully for your celebrations. Here’s to meaningful moments, device-security that stays put, and conversations that bring you closer, not tug you off track. The holidays are yours to enjoy, not just get through. [collection=basics-collection] [product=skin-grip-original-instinct-adhesive-patches]
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