Type 1 diabetes is managed in different ways, using different tools. An insulin pump is just one of these tools, as are insulin pens or glucose meters. However, to manage your type 1 diabetes you need more than just these tools. There are important self-management habits that can lead to improved blood sugar control.

​​​​​Important Self-Management Habits​

1. Test your blood sugar before all meals and bedtime (at least 4 times a day).
2. Keep and use records:
   • keep records of blood sugars, food, exercise
   • review your records to look for patterns of high or low blood sugars
   • change your insulin, food, and/or exercise to work towards fewer high and low blood sugars based on your records
3. Use carbohydrate management methods (carbohydrate counting, insulin-to-carbohydrate ratios, or other methods) to match insulin with the amount of carbohydrates you’re eating.
4. Follow healthy habits (healthy eating, activity, managing stress, taking your medicine as prescribed).
5. Have your A1c done every 3 to 4 months, know what it is, and know what it means.
6. Follow up regularly with your healthcare team for:
   • help developing and maintaining healthy behaviours and habits
   • problem-solving blood sugar patterns
   • your yearly screening for complications of diabetes
   • help with anything that’s getting in the way of you taking care of your health

Paying more attention to these habits can improve blood sugar control, whether someone is on an insulin pump or not.​​​​