Tips for managing diabetes abroad

Madam Faiza also used a continuous glucose monitor, which her doctor could track remotely.

- 

The monitor is small and tracks a person's blood sugar levels throughout the day and night.

"It gave me peace of mind to see my sugar levels in real time. Even when they spiked due to stress or fever from the 46 deg C heat, the doctor reassured me I was still in a safe range," she says.

Diet was another challenge. Haj accommodation often comes with at least two buffet meals a day. "It's easy to overeat," she says.

"But the programme reminded me of portion control, to eat more protein and less carbs, and to stay hydrated.

"I learnt that if I'm dehydrated, my sugar level will spike. So, I drank water regularly, even though it was sometimes inconvenient because there weren't toilets nearby."

The physical training she received also made a difference.

"The physiotherapist showed us exercises to strengthen our legs and core. I also trained with a personal trainer friend before haj to correct my gait.

"During haj, I walked 5km to 7km almost every day, sometimes with a walking stick on uneven ground. But I managed," she says.