### Discovering the Joy of the Outdoors with Diabetes Growing up, Alex Day wasn't an outdoorsy kid. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) at 8, she preferred reading books over outdoor activities. Her poor diabetes control made her wary of venturing far from emergency services. Like many with T1D, she experienced diabetes burnout during her teenage years, leading to neglecting her blood sugar levels. In college, Alex started using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), which provided real-time blood sugar readings. This technology empowered her to manage her health better and revealed how physical activity positively impacted her blood sugar levels. She discovered that being active outdoors not only made her feel better but also improved her blood sugar control. Alex shares several tips for managing diabetes while enjoying outdoor activities: 1. **Plan Ahead**: Adjust your insulin routine based on the type of exercise. For strenuous hikes, reduce basal insulin; for muscle-intensive activities, maintain basal rates. 2. **Trial and Error**: Experiment with small adjustments to find what works best for you. 3. **Stay Hydrated**: Always carry water, especially at higher elevations. 4. **Avoid Sugary Meals**: Start your day with a high-fat, high-protein breakfast to avoid blood sugar spikes. 5. **Check Weather**: Protect your insulin from extreme temperatures and pack extra supplies. 6. **Be Prepared**: Carry backup insulin and glucose monitoring supplies. Alex emphasizes that diabetes shouldn't hold anyone back from exploring the outdoors. She encourages everyone, regardless of their condition, to discover the life-changing benefits of nature. Alex's journey shows that with proper preparation and a positive mindset, managing diabetes and enjoying outdoor adventures is possible.