01/13/2026
Learning About Diabetes and Making Better Choices
Learning About Diabetes and Making Better Choices
I live with diabetes, and this page talks about diabetes from my own learning experience. I am not an expert, but I am learning more about diabetes education because I want to make better choices, especially when I go out to eat and drink.
Like many people, I enjoy junk food. Eating treats in moderation is okay, but eating junk food all the time can be harmful for people living with diabetes. Junk food is called “junk food” for a reason—it usually has a lot of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, and not much nutrition. Over time, eating too much of it can affect blood sugar levels and overall health.
I am learning about healthier food and drink choices with the help of a support worker. This support is important because learning about diabetes can feel overwhelming, and having someone to help makes it easier to understand and apply in real-life situations. When we go out, we talk about better options, portion sizes, and balance.
A good example is Starbucks. I learned that Starbucks has diabetic-friendly syrup options, which can make a big difference. A support worker also introduced me to a London Fog at Starbucks, and I love it. Learning about these alternatives helps me still enjoy going out while making better choices that work for my diabetes.
It’s okay to enjoy ice cream, birthday cake, or special treats once in a while. Celebrations are part of life. The key is not having these foods all the time and finding a healthy balance.
We are all guilty of eating the wrong foods sometimes, and that’s okay. What matters is learning, making small changes, and trying to make better choices—especially when eating out with your support worker. Learning about diabetes is a journey, and every positive step counts. Why Healthy Eating and Drink Choices Matter — Even at Starbucks
Healthy eating and making better drink choices matter for everyone, no matter where you go or what drinks you enjoy. Food and drinks affect our energy, mood, focus, and long-term health. The choices we make—especially on a regular basis—can make a big difference in how we feel.
You don’t have to give up going out to places like Starbucks to care about your health. The goal is not perfection, but balance. Enjoying treats once in a while is okay. What matters most is what we choose most of the time.
Drink choices are especially important. Many popular coffee and café drinks can contain a lot of sugar without people realizing it. Too much sugar can lead to energy crashes and health problems over time. Learning what goes into your drink helps you make informed choices.
Starbucks is a good example of how healthier options can still be enjoyable. Starbucks offers diabetic-friendly and lower-sugar syrup options, and you can ask for fewer pumps of syrup or choose different milk options. Some people discover new favorites this way, like a London Fog with adjustments that work better for their health.
Support workers, friends, or family members can help by talking through options when ordering. Having support makes it easier to learn and feel confident making better choices when eating or drinking out.
Caring about healthy eating doesn’t mean giving up the places you love. It means learning, asking questions, and making choices that respect your body. Even small changes—like choosing a lower-sugar drink at Starbucks—can add up and support a healthier, more balanced life.
Thank you AI for using some of my ideas
sincerely Krystian Shaw
I live with diabetes, and this page talks about diabetes from my own learning experience. I am not an expert, but I am learning more about diabetes education because I want to make better choices, especially when I go out to eat and drink.
