Diabetes
Diabetes affects how your body uses blood sugar, or glucose. At TidalHealth, our team is here to support you through education, counseling and personalized care to help you manage your condition and maintain a healthy, active life.
Our Diabetes Care Team
Our team includes endocrinologists, certified diabetes educators, nurses and registered dietitians. We offer both group and individual education sessions so you can better understand diabetes and feel confident in your daily care. Our programs are recognized by the American Diabetes Association (ADA).
Education and Support
We provide classes and support groups for adults, kids and teens living with diabetes. These sessions cover self-management skills, healthy eating, medication use, physical activity, blood sugar monitoring and emotional well-being. We also offer individualized instruction for injectable medications and continuous glucose monitoring systems such as Dexcom and Freestyle Libre. Our pediatric specialists work closely with children and families to offer guidance at every step.
Specialized Services
• Medical nutrition therapy with registered dietitians, focused on personalized meal planning, weight management and healthier food choices.
• Education on diabetes self-management, blood sugar control and medication use.
• Support for women diagnosed with gestational diabetes.
Newly Diagnosed with Diabetes
A new diagnosis can bring up emotions like fear, frustration or guilt. These feelings are normal. Managing diabetes is a team approach, and with support from your care providers, family and friends, you can make positive changes. With healthy habits and the right guidance, diabetes does not have to limit your life. Our goal is to help you stay well and reduce the risk of complications such as heart or kidney problems.
Your Role and Your Healthcare Team
Diabetes care works best when everyone is involved. Your team may include your primary care practitioner, endocrinologist, dietitian, nurse, pharmacist, diabetes educator and your support system at home. Together, you’ll focus on coordinating appointments, planning meals, staying active, checking blood sugar, managing medications and coping with the emotional side of diabetes.
Healthy Eating and Exercise
Balanced meals and regular activity play a big part in managing blood sugar. Focus on whole foods, portion control and consistency in what and when you eat. Carbohydrates have the biggest effect on blood sugar, so learning how to portion them can make daily management easier. A simple guideline is the plate method: half your plate non-starchy vegetables, one quarter lean protein and one quarter a starchy food, with fruit or low-fat dairy if desired.
Physical activity can help lower blood sugar, reduce stress, improve mood and support overall strength and flexibility. Start slowly and choose activities you enjoy.
Regular Exams and Tests
Routine tests help you stay on track. Your healthcare team may recommend blood pressure checks, A1C testing, eye exams and bloodwork to check cholesterol and kidney function. These regular check-ins help identify issues early and support long-term health.
Emergency Preparedness
Keep at least three days of diabetes supplies, medications and emergency contact information in a waterproof container. Wearing a medical ID bracelet or necklace ensures caregivers know you have diabetes if you cannot communicate.
Ongoing Resources
You’re not alone in managing diabetes. Our team offers classes, support groups, nutrition counseling and personalized guidance to help you stay healthy. Contact TidalHealth to learn more about support and education tailored to you.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition where the body does not properly regulate blood sugar levels. This can happen when the body does not make enough insulin, does not use insulin well or both. Managing blood sugar helps protect your overall health and reduces the risk of complications.
I was just diagnosed with diabetes. What should I do?
Feeling overwhelmed is completely normal. Start by talking openly with your care team and loved ones. With support from TidalHealth, you can learn how to balance meals, activity and medications to keep your blood sugar in a healthy range. You don’t have to manage diabetes alone—our team is here to guide you.
Can I live a normal life with diabetes?
Yes. With the right care and daily habits, many people with diabetes live full, active lives. We can help you learn the skills you need to manage your condition and lower the risk of long-term complications.
What should I eat if I have diabetes?
Focus on balanced meals with appropriate portions. Try filling half your plate with non-starchy vegetables, a quarter with lean protein and a quarter with a starchy food. Choosing whole foods and limiting added sugars can help keep blood sugar stable.
Is exercise important for diabetes?
Regular activity supports blood sugar control, helps with weight management, reduces stress and boosts mood. Find activities you enjoy and make movement a regular part of your routine.
What regular health checks do I need?
Your care team may recommend A1C tests, blood pressure checks, eye exams and bloodwork to check cholesterol and kidney function. Staying on top of these helps you monitor your health and catch issues early.
How should I prepare for an emergency?
Keep at least three days of diabetes supplies and medications ready in a waterproof container, along with important phone numbers. Wearing a medical ID helps others quickly identify your needs in an emergency.
