11 Unique Gifts for the Person with Diabetes

The season of giving is here! Do you have an individual with diabetes on your list, but are stumped on what to get them? Maybe you’re looking to treat yourself? Here is a list of 11 gift suggestions that are perfect for people with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes!

*Please note: prices and shipping costs may vary. We have not been paid to endorse any products.

1. Moisturizing lotions : While dry skin is not exclusive to those who have diabetes, it is often a complaint. To some, their skin feels drier and itchier when their blood sugars are high. The skin of people with diabetes may also feel dry if they suffer from neuropathy, which is caused by damage of the nerves. To help combat dry skin, consider picking up some ultra-moisturizing lotion to keep looking and feeling hydrated during these cold months.

We recommend: Aveeno Skin Relief Lotion for Diabetic's Skin ($10 CAD)

2. Insulin Cooler Bag : Why compromise style when it comes to carrying diabetes supplies around? Specially designed to take insulin pens, test strip containers, lancets and thermogels, organizers are an easy way to transport supplies. Just make sure your organizer comes with a cooling pack or pick one up separately!

We recommend: BTSKY Insulin Cooler Travel Case ($22 CAD)

or ONEGenug Insulin Cooler Bag ($21 CAD)

3. Books : Do you know someone who absolutely loves to read? Why not get them a good book? While a gift card to the bookstore is always a good bet, here are some good diabetes friendly options to pick up.

Diabetes for Dummies : If someone in your life is new to the diabetes community, pick up a copy of Diabetes for Dummies. Although humorous at first glance, this book is jam packed with valuable information that can aid anyone who would like to learn more about the disease. ($27.00 CAD)

Kids First Diabetes Second : This book focuses on parents who have a child with Type 1. Being a parent is far from easy, but being a parent to a child with Type 1 is a whole other level. In this book, you learn about experiences that other parents go through dealing with their child’s Type 1 diabetes, which will make readers feel like they are not alone. ($19 CAD)

4. Cookbooks : Branching off #3, next on our list we have cookbooks!

The Diabetes Cookbook and Meal Plan for the Newly Diagnosed: This first cookbook is perfect for someone recently diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. After being diagnosed, it can be hard and confusing to figure out what you should be eating. This cookbook guides you through healthy choices and even shows readers how to meal prep! ($24 CAD)

The Type 1 Diabetes Cookbook: The next cookbook is focused on Type 1 diabetes and how to maintain a balanced diet. This cookbook offers easy recipes that will keep blood sugars steady and help readers and eaters thrive with their Type 1 diabetes. ($24 CAD)

The Pure Prairie Eating Plan: This next cookbook is written by Dr. Catherine Chan and Dr. Rhonda Bell. The Alberta Diabetes Foundation’s funding made this cookbook possible. A fantastic and informative read that will inspire you to use locally grown, Alberta foods in your diet. This book has a month’s worth of diabetes friendly recipes with a weekly shopping list and all important carb counts for every meal. ($36 CAD)

The Perfect Diabetes Comfort Food Collection: Who doesn’t love comfort food, especially during the holiday season? This next cookbook has those comfort food lovers covered! Providing readers and eaters with interesting, new recipes that are both healthy and delicious, this cookbook is a must-have for anyone with diabetes. ($27 CAD)

Diabetes Snacks, Treats, and Easy Eats for Kids: This last cookbook is focused on kids who have either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Just because a kid has diabetes, does not mean they should have to compromise the fun meals that come with childhood! This cookbook ensures that kids can have fun meals and snacks while still adhering to diabetes guidelines. ($24 CAD)

5. Apparel : People loved themed shirts whether it’s Marvel, a favourite band or Canadian pride! Why shouldn’t people with diabetes be able to express a major part of their lives on their t-shirts too? Check out these awesome shirts that are sure to get a laugh out of anyone who wears them!

We recommend: P roud Owner of a Useless Pancreas t-shirt ($19 CAD)

Or: Type ONE-DER-FUL t-shirt ($30.00 CAD)

Or: Type 1 diabetes "Friends" shirt ($22 CAD)

6. Compression Socks : As mentioned in #1, some people with diabetes are prone to neuropathy, especially in the feet. For some, by the end of the day, it is unbearable to walk due to pain. One way to help is to wear compression socks specifically made for those with diabetes. These socks aid with circulation and padding and cushion the nerves that have been damaged.

We recommend: Carolina Ultimate Non-Binding Diabetic Dress Crew Sock ($30 CAD)

Or: VOXX Life Wellness Crew Socks (35.00 pair)

7. Jerry the Bear : Looking for a special something for the Type 1 kid in your life? Check out Jerry the Bear! Through interaction with Jerry the Bear, children learn to take care of him as well as themselves. Using the free app and virtual tools to check his blood sugar, kids make food selections, carb count and administer insulin to Jerry! Jerry is recommended for ages 4-9+ and his app is available for both iOS and Android devices.

Buy Jerry here. ($55 USD. About $94 CAD with shipping)

8. Beginner’s Yoga Kit : For those with Type 2 diabetes, it is so important to stay healthy and fit. By doing so, people can start to get a handle on their disease. A beginner’s yoga kit allows people with diabetes to stay active from the comfort of their home or the comfort of a yoga studio.

We recommend: Iron Body Fitness Yoga Set Beginners Kit ($29 CAD)

9. Medical Alert Bracelet or Keychain : Esty has an array of beautiful and unique bracelets and key chains that are specifically for people with diabetes. This is a gift that is both practical and stylish.

We recommend: Medical Alert Key Ring fro the Little Stamping Co. ($23 CAD)

Or: Medical Alert Bracelet from Mignon and Mignon. ($39 CAD)

10. Glucose Tablets: It’s always good to stock up on things you use all the time during the holidays. That is why our next gifting option is glucose tablets! People with diabetes use glucose tablets to raise blood sugar and treat hypoglycemia fast. They come in an array of flavours so choose wisely!

We recommend: Dex4 Glucose Tablets ($22 CAD)

11.  A Donation: When all is said and done, material objects are great, but they don’t really capture the essence of the season. Our last gift option for someone with diabetes is a donation. After all, organizations such as the Alberta Diabetes Foundation work to raise money for ground-breaking research that will one day lead to a cure for diabetes. A thoughtful way to share the warmth this time of year is to donate in your loved one or friend’s name and help find a cure.

Donate to the Alberta Diabetes Foundation! (Any amount)