Sponsored by Defeat Diabetes

If you’ve been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, one of the first questions that comes up is simple: What should I actually eat?

It sounds like it should have a clear answer. In reality, it often doesn’t feel that way.

Most people are given general advice like “eat healthy”, “cut back on sugar”, or “watch your portions”. While that’s well-intentioned, it can leave you trying to piece things together on your own. It’s no wonder you find yourself standing in the supermarket or planning dinner, scratching your head and wondering if you’re making the right choices.

And even when you do make changes, the results don’t always follow. Blood glucose can stay higher than expected, or fluctuate in ways that are hard to make sense of.

It’s enough to make anyone frustrated, so we asked our partner, , to explain more.

Why it can feel confusing

Part of the challenge is that “healthy eating” doesn’t always translate directly to stable blood glucose.

Many everyday foods that are commonly recommended – like cereal, wholegrains or low fat products – can cause blood glucose to rise more than you’d expect. That’s because carbohydrates, even the ones considered “healthy”, break down into glucose (sugar) in the body.

At the same time, people are often told to reduce fat, which can leave meals feeling less satisfying and lead to more frequent snacking. Over time, it becomes harder to tell what’s helping manage blood glucose levels and what isn’t.

It’s not that the advice is wrong – it’s that it’s broad, and people aren’t. What works in theory doesn’t always translate easily into your day-to-day life.

What actually matters

When it comes to food and blood glucose, a few things tend to make the biggest difference.

The first is the amount and type of carbohydrate in your meals. Foods like bread, rice, pasta, potatoes, and many packaged snacks can have a noticeable impact on blood glucose levels, particularly when eaten on their own or in larger portions.

The second is how your meals are put together. Including protein and healthy fats, such as olive oil and butter, can help slow the rise in blood glucose after eating and keep you feeling full for longer. That might look like eggs with veggies instead of toast for breakfast, or adding chicken, fish, tofu or cheese to a meal rather than relying mostly on carbohydrates.

The third is consistency. Meals that keep you satisfied tend to reduce the need for constant snacking, making it easier to manage blood glucose throughout the day.

These aren’t extreme changes, but they are more specific than general advice, and that’s often what’s missing.

Why there isn’t one perfect way to eat

Even with this understanding, there still isn’t a single “right” way to eat for type 2 diabetes.

Some people prefer a clear structure and like following a plan. Others need flexibility so they can fit changes into their family, work, or social lives. Some want to understand the reasoning behind the dietary advice before they commit to it.

If the approach you’re trying doesn’t match how you personally think or live, it can feel hard to sustain, even if it looks good on paper.

That’s why two people can follow similar advice and have very different experiences.

Finding what works for you

Instead of trying to follow a one-size-fits-all set of rules, it can be more helpful to focus on finding an approach that fits you: your preferences, your routine and what you’re likely to stick with over time.

For some people, that means starting with simple food swaps. For others, it’s about having a clearer structure or guidance. For many, it’s a combination of both.

If you’re not sure where to begin, you can start by getting a clearer sense of what might suit you best.

Our partner, Defeat Diabetes, has a short questionnaire to help you understand what tends to get in your way when it comes to diet, the kind of support you respond to and what approach you’re most likely to follow through with.

It takes just a couple of minutes, and you’ll receive a FREE personalised guide to improving your blood glucose levels.

You can explore it here:

Meet the Blue Circle Collective â€” a national network of Ambassadors, Advocates, and Advisers united to drive meaningful change for all Australians.  

What is the Blue Circle Collective? 

A national network of passionate Ambassadors, Advocates and Advisers, united to amplify the cause, raise awareness, and drive meaningful change in how diabetes is understood, supported, and addressed.  

At șÚÁÏÍű, weÌęrecogniseÌęthat speaking means little unlessÌęit’sÌęgrounded in listening. The Blue Circle Collective strengthens our ability to hear directly from communities,ÌęreflectÌętheir lived experiences, and advocate for what truly matters. WhetherÌęit’sÌęinfluencing policy, sparking grassroots action, or shifting publicÌęperception, the Blue Circle Collective is a driving force for progress.Ìę

Ambassadors, Advocates, and Advisers each have a distinct role, all connected by a common purpose. Whether influencing national policy, sparking grassroots action, or shifting public perception, members aren’t bystanders; they’re the driving force. 

” There has always been stigma surrounding people who live with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, and I believe one way to change that is for those with lived experience to help educate others.” – Dominic Speranza, Community Advocate 

Meet the Circle 

With the Blue Circle Collective spanning nationwide, we’re proud to introduce the powerful voices that represent and uplift the diabetes community across Australia. Our Ambassadors, Advocates, and Advisers come from a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, each bringing their own perspective to the Circle. 

#1 Ambassadors  

Ambassadors are high-profile voices who champion diabetes awareness on the national stage through media, public events, and major campaigns. As familiar faces, they share a real connection to the cause and a lifelong commitment.‹ 

Meet some of our 2026 Ambassadors: Warren Bingham, Lachlan Kennedy, Lara McSpadden, Isabella Magee, Bas de Ruijter, Gordon Bunyan 

#2 Advocates 

Advocates are passionate volunteers who speak from lived experience. They shape programs, share stories, and ensure real voices are heard where decisions get made â€” experts in what it’s like to live with diabetes. 

Meet some of our 2026 Advocates: Dominic Speranza, Lauren Cusack, Dr Amira Howari, Vicky Kavasilas, Sebastian Harris, Kate Wildermuth, Lucy Woods 

#3 Advisers 

Combining professional expertise with lived experience, Advisers guide șÚÁÏÍű’s Board and Management on strategy and research, translating community perspectives into authentic, impactful solutions. 

Meet some of our 2026 Advisers: Leon Tribe, Yvonne Appleby, Emma Bond, Jenna Cantamessa, Saradhi Motamarri, Caitlin Rogers, Caroline Thomas 

How Circle members make a difference 

Members contribute in ways that suit them, either sharing stories or insights that shape programs and services, participating in events and media opportunities, contributing to research and advocacy efforts, providing formal consultation to the șÚÁÏÍű Board and Management, and supporting or leading community-driven initiatives. Some step into the spotlight; others work behind the scenes. Both matter equally. 

No matter how diabetes touches your life, your experience is important. Whether you live with diabetes, care for someone who does, work in the field, or are at risk, your experience matters. Your voice can help shape programs, support others, and make a real difference in the lives of families living with diabetes. 

“If you’re thinking about joining the Blue Circle Collective, please step in. Your voice, your story, and your individual circumstances truly matter. Each of your stories within the Circle can help us eliminate the impact of diabetes on all Australians.”  â€“ Kirsten McMahon, National Manager Social Impact 

Want to learn more? 

Visit our website to discover how the Blue Circle Collective is creating change and get to know the stories behind the inspiring Australians driving it.   

Shoppers at selected Target stores in South Australia can now take five from checking out the latest fashion fits to check in on their health, thanks to a pilot partnership between the retailer, șÚÁÏÍű, and SiSU Health.  

The partnership will see 10 SiSU Health Check stations deployed across selected Target stores in South Australia, where shoppers can check a range of health markers such as blood pressure, heart rate, height, weight, body composition, and risk of developing type 2 diabetes (against AUSDRISK criteria), all discreetly delivered directly by secure app.  

Health Check stations are self-serve TGA-registered medical devices that can provide validated screening results in minutes, which can give baseline health data and support conversations with health professionals.   

The initiative aims to encourage early screening for a range of common health markers that could help people catch their risk of chronic conditions sooner.  

Currently, just over 121,000 South Australians live with all types of diabetes, with a further 34,000 estimated to be living with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. Nationally, 2 million Australians are living with diabetes.  

Diabetes Australia’s Group CEO Justine Cain said the initiative was an important step forward in exploring new ways to make preventive health more accessible to the community.  

“With this partnership there’s no need for people to ‘shop around’ for good health – now they can check their risk while at Target checking the latest fashion,” Ms Cain said.   

“A five-minute health check could be the best thing you put in your shopping basket today. 

“Millions of Australians are either living with or at risk of type 2 diabetes, and many don’t realise it.  By partnering with a trusted brand like Target, we have a powerful opportunity to reach people earlier. Early detection is one of the most powerful tools we have to help people take control of their health.” 

Ms Cain said the partnership reflects șÚÁÏÍű’s commitment to innovative approaches to prevention.  

“We know that when health checks are easy, accessible and stigma free, more people engage. These health stations at Target stores provide a simple way for people to learn their risk, track their results, and, if needed, seek support early through their GP or health professional. Small steps like this can make a big difference.” 

Target will host the health stations in 10 participating stores, as part of the pilot, providing customers with a convenient five-minute check while they shop.  

Kmart Group (Kmart and Target) Chief Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Officer Alexandra Staley said Target is proud to partner with șÚÁÏÍű to bring accessible health solutions into everyday retail environments.  

“At Target, we’re committed to supporting our local communities. By hosting these health stations in our stores, we’re helping make it easier for customers to access simple, free health checks as part of their everyday routines.”  

“This pilot reflects our broader focus on creating positive community impact — using our national store network to help explore ways to remove barriers to early detection and support better health outcomes for Australians.”  

The health checks have already proven successful in other settings, with thousands of Australians using SiSU Health Stations each year to proactively monitor their health.  

SiSUÌęHealth Check machines are available now in Target Australia locations across South Australia. Participating stores include: Centrepoint (Adelaide CBD), Sefton Park, Edwardstown, Newton, Marion, Tea Tree Plaza, West Lakes, Hollywood Plaza, Elizabeth, Reynella.ÌęÌę

One of Australia’s brightest stars is spearheading a newly formed group to amplify the voices of people living with diabetes.

Australian sprint champion Lachlan Kennedy, who lives with type 1 diabetes, is an ambassador with the Blue Circle Collective, a group of Australians living with diabetes throughout the nation, launched by șÚÁÏÍű.

Lachie broke the 10-second barrier in the 100m sprint twice at the recent Australian championships in Sydney, becoming the fastest man in Australia. Just 24 hours after running 9.96 seconds in the heats, despite a malfunctioning insulin pump and high glucose levels, Lachie clocked the same time in the final the next day.

He is aiming to break Patrick Johnson’s national record of 9.93 seconds this year and also join the ranks of elite athletes who have run 9.8 seconds.

“I’ve got more in the tank,” Lachie said. “The sky is the limit.”

This week, Lachie took time out of his busy schedule before he leaves for overseas to continue competing and prepare for the Commonwealth Games, to shine a light on the voices of people living with diabetes. șÚÁÏÍű’s Blue Circle Collective is working to ensure that lived experience of diabetes shapes the future of diabetes policy, care, and awareness in Australia.

The Blue Circle Collective brings together Ambassadors, Advocates and Advisers from around Australia who will share their perspectives of living with diabetes, raise awareness and help drive meaningful change in how diabetes is understood, supported and addressed.

șÚÁÏÍű’s Group CEO Justine Cain said the initiative places people living with diabetes at the centre of national conversations about the condition.

“People who live with diabetes every day must help shape, at every level, the decisions that affect their lives,” Ms Cain said.

“The Blue Circle Collective is about elevating real voices and real experiences so that policy makers, health leaders and the wider community better understand both the challenges and the possibilities of living well with diabetes.

“It’s a growing circle of changemakers who are united by a shared commitment to improving outcomes for the millions of Australians affected by diabetes.”

Ms Cain said representatives of the Blue Circle Collective will be the heartbeat of ongoing advocacy and community engagement to support important initiatives to address the increasing impact of diabetes on Australians and accelerate practical solutions and long-term policy.

Lachie is determined to raise awareness about diabetes. This determination underlines what thousands of Australians living with diabetes face every day: the unrelenting, often invisible work it takes to stay well.

“I don’t make a big deal out of my diabetes but I’m aware some people living with type 1 diabetes don’t have access to insulin pumps. My glucose monitor and insulin pump help me to have healthy glucose levels, and there are rarely any issues,” said Lachie.

“Whatever happens, wherever I am, I still have to manage my diabetes. It’s an extra layer of daily decisions in my life and I’m grateful that I have the diabetes technology that I need. I want the same for every Australian living with type 1 diabetes.”

Lachie believes that living with type 1 diabetes has shaped him into the athlete and person he is today.

“I think I live a healthier lifestyle than I would have done if I hadn’t developed type 1 diabetes,” Lachie said.

“It forces you to be aware, to think about your body, to be disciplined. That definitely helps on and off the track.”

Ms Cain said Lachie’s success is a reminder of the strength and resilience within the diabetes community.

“Lachlan Kennedy is evidence that people with type 1 diabetes can do anything,” Ms Cain said.

“Lachie isn’t just an athlete. He’s a brave and resilient champion in every sense of the word.”

Ms Cain said the Blue Circle Collective reflects șÚÁÏÍű’s commitment to ensuring the voices of people living with diabetes are heard, respected, and central to shaping the nation’s response to one of its most urgent health challenges.

To share your interest and learn more about the Blue Circle Collective, please email bluecirclecollective@diabetesaustralia.com.au. Visit Blue Circle Collective.

About șÚÁÏÍű

șÚÁÏÍű is the national peak body supporting people living with, and at risk of, diabetes. We are leading the national response to Australia’s largest health crisis, working in collaboration with people with lived experience, member organisations, peak bodies, health professionals, state-based organisations, researchers and the community. Our work focuses on supporting people with diabetes to live well, providing information, resources, and support services, as well as investing in prevention, and reducing the impact of diabetes on people, health systems and society. We advocate for positive change that will create a healthier future for everyone.         

A young mother in Bendigo is asking the government to change the lives of Australians living with diabetes by making diabetes technology more affordable.

Expanding subsidies to make Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) systems and Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices more affordable for people living with diabetes is a key area of focus for șÚÁÏÍű and the diabetes sector and was an important topic of discussion at the National Diabetes Summit on March 31.

For Caitlin, 32, diabetes technology is the difference between safety and risk for herself and for her eight-month-old son, Mac.

Caitlin was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of nine. Like thousands of Australians, she grew up managing the complex autoimmune condition that requires constant vigilance, precise insulin dosing and round-the-clock monitoring to stay alive. For much of her childhood and young adulthood, that management relied on her Mum finger-prick testing her every two hours every night and multiple daily injections of insulin.

As a young adult, access to insulin pump therapy improved Caitlin’s glucose management, but cost meant she could only use continuous glucose monitoring intermittently until the Federal Government introduced subsidies for CGM devices for Australians with type 1 diabetes in 2022.

“That decision by government changed my life,” Caitlin said. “Managing my glucose levels became safer, easier and more predictable.”

Caitlin said she had been told from the time she was a young girl that if she decided to have children, she would have a high-risk pregnancy and would need to have strong control of her glucose levels to avoid complications for both her and the baby.

“Before I got pregnant, I worked extremely hard to keep my levels in the healthiest range. The CGM and insulin pump helped me manage healthy glucose levels.

“Even with that tight, successful management (and I worked extremely hard to control my glucose levels) I ended up with pre-eclampsia. When he was born, Mac was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit because of concerns about his glucose levels and there were a few other things, but he’s just fine,” she said.

Caitlin is acutely aware that her health is inseparable from her child’s safety.

“My baby’s wellbeing depends on my wellbeing,” she said. “I’m constantly thinking about my glucose levels when I’m driving, when I’m alone at home, when I’m caring for him.”

Despite the proven health benefits, access to AID systems that combine insulin pumps with continuous glucose monitoring remains out of reach for many Australians with type 1 diabetes due to cost.

“Technology is about dignity, safety and equity. People should never have to choose between managing a life-threatening condition or their family’s needs, like paying a mortgage or even putting food on the table,” Caitlin said.

The diabetes community has united in its advocacy to help ensure people living with diabetes can receive the right support and care.

“Diabetes technology saves lives, reduces complications and keeps people out of hospital,” șÚÁÏÍű Group CEO Justine Cain said.

“Research shows that CGMs and insulin pumps are game-changing in managing glucose levels and preventing serious complications like heart attack, stroke, blindness and kidney disease.

“Diabetes management costs an individual thousands of dollars each year. It costs our health system billions of dollars each year. Diabetes technologies can help reduce those costs.

“It’s critical that the health sector, government, industry and the community work together to address the impact of Australia’s diabetes epidemic. The National Diabetes Summit is an important opportunity to strengthen that collaboration and drive meaningful action,” Ms Cain said.

Paid partnership with Canopy Clinical Research

Clinical trials are the reason most of today’s treatments exist. Trials help researchers discover better ways to prevent, manage, and treat conditions like diabetes, and they can also offer real benefits to participants.

The first insulin trials in the 1920s transformed a once‑fatal diagnosis into a manageable condition. Later studies introduced metformin, and more recent trials paved the way for continuous glucose monitoring and insulin pumps.

There are several reasons you might consider participating in a study.

Why participate in a clinical trial?

Access to enhanced monitoring and health assessments

When you join a clinical trial, you are supported by a dedicated medical team who will follow your progress throughout the study. Clinical trials involve regular check-ins, health assessments, and opportunities to speak with the clinical research team about how you are managing your diabetes.

New treatment options

Clinical trials will often be exploring the effectiveness of new medications or devices that aren’t yet available to the public.

For example, is currently conducting a study investigating a new medication for weight management in type 2 diabetes, as well as a diabetic foot ulcer trial which is investigating a new topical treatment designed to support healing.

Your participation can help improve care for the wider diabetes community

By taking part in a clinical trial, you can join a community of participants who are shaping history and the next generation of diabetes therapies.

How to get involved?

If you choose to register your interest in a clinical trial, the process usually begins with a brief pre‑screening call to discuss your health and diabetes history. This is followed by a clinic visit where you can meet the research team and ask any questions you may have.

If you areÌęa young Australian living with diabetes and you’ve ever thought, “I wish things were different,” — this program is for you.

Expressions of interest are now open for the International Diabetes Federation Young Leaders in Diabetes Programme. This is a global initiative open to anyone aged 18-30 years old living with diabetes who wants to make a real impact. 

șÚÁÏÍű is the only Australian organisation authorised to nominate candidates for the International Diabetes Federation Young Leaders Programme. Expressions of interest are now open.

What is the IDF Young Leaders in Diabetes Programme?Ìę

The IDF Young Leaders in Diabetes (YLD) Programme brings together young people living with diabetes from around the world to lead change through advocacy, education, awareness, and community building. It is a volunteer program designed for people who want to contribute to meaningful diabetes projects and build leadership skills, empowering them to lead change, raise awareness, and stand up against stigma and discrimination.‹

As the sole Australian member organisation of the Western Pacific region of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), șÚÁÏÍű is proud to be the exclusive pathway for Australian youth to participate in the Young Leaders in Diabetes (YLD) Programme. We play a vital role in identifying, selecting, supporting, and nominating YLD trainees for IDF consideration.

Ìę 2025–2027 Cohort Ìę
79 Members	48 Countries	2–4 Hours per month commitment Ìę

What’s involved?

Who can apply?

Applicants need to be passionate about making a difference, open to learning new skills, and able to commit time to the Program and to delivering their project.ÌęThe full list of requirements to join the YLD trainee program includes:Ìę

• Live with any type of diabetesÌę
• Aged between 18 and 30 by 30 November 2026Ìę
• Able to communicate effectively in English (a video interview may be requested)Ìę
• Have an active connection with an IDF Member AssociationÌę
• Be passionate about making a difference in the diabetes communityÌę
• Have the desire to develop, execute, and report a diabetes project agreed with an IDF Member AssociationÌę
• Have reliable access to the internet for communication and reporting purposesÌę
• Be available two to four hours per month for the YLD program

Explore more about .

How the process works 

To become a YLD trainee, there are four steps for young Australians:​‹

Step 1: Express your interest by emailing șÚÁÏÍű with your project idea
Step 2: șÚÁÏÍű selects and nominates candidates to the IDF
Step 3: The IDF reviews all nominations and advises on successful candidates
Step 4: Successful trainees are awarded and begin their YLD journey

Ready to express your interest?

We’re excited to hear from passionate, young Australians ready to make a difference in diabetes advocacy. The next intake for the YLD program will be in October 2027, with applications opening inÌęApril – September 2027. ​ To express your interest early, email us at:​ bluecirclecollective@diabetesaustralia.com.au

In your email, tell us:​‹

• What is your project idea​Ìę
• Who you hope to reach​Ìę
• What impact you want to make​Ìę
• Any fundraising ideas you may have to support your project​Ìę

Where can I learn more?

Find out everything you need to know, including what past leaders have gone on to do, at the links below:

șÚÁÏÍű ambassadors – Young leaders

When blood glucose levels run high, people often assume it must be related to food choices, missed medication, or lack of exercise. While these are common causes, there are many other factors that can influence blood glucose levels.

Diabetes education programs emphasise that glucose levels are affected by a range of everyday factors including hormones, stress, illness, sleep, and hydration. This is why people sometimes see higher readings even when they feel they have done everything “right”.ÌęUnderstanding these less obvious influences can help explain unexpected glucose readings and support better diabetes management.

Below are five less common reasons your glucose levels may be higher than expected.

1. Stress and emotional pressure

Stress can have a significant impact on blood glucose levels. When the body experiences stress, whether emotional, physical, or psychological, it releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.  These hormones trigger the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream as part of the body’s natural “fight or flight” response. While this response is helpful in emergency situations, it can raise blood glucose levels in people living with diabetes.

Stress may come from many sources including work pressures, family responsibilities, illness, financial concerns, or even the ongoing demands of managing diabetes itself.ÌęDeveloping strategies to manage stress may help reduce this effect. Activities such as walking, meditation, breathing exercises, or spending time outdoors may help lower stress levels and support overall wellbeing.

Recognising the relationship between stress and glucose levels can also make unexpected readings feel less confusing or discouraging.

2. Poor sleep

Sleep plays an important role in regulating hormones that influence glucose metabolism.ÌęWhen sleep is disrupted or shortened, the body may become more resistant to insulin. This means glucose remains in the bloodstream for longer rather than moving into the cells where it is used for energy.Ìę Sleep deprivation may also increase hunger hormones, making people more likely to feel hungry and crave high-energy foods.

Many adults benefit from seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Maintaining consistent sleep routines, limiting screen exposure before bedtime, and creating a comfortable sleep environment may help improve sleep quality. If poor sleep is ongoing, discussing this with a healthcare professional may be helpful as sleep quality can significantly influence diabetes management.

3. Dehydration

Hydration is another factor that can affect glucose levels but is often overlooked.ÌęWhen the body becomes dehydrated, the amount of fluid in the bloodstream decreases. This can lead to a higher concentration of glucose in the blood.

High glucose levels themselves can also increase urination, which may further contribute to dehydration. This creates a cycle where dehydration and elevated glucose levels reinforce each other.  Drinking water regularly throughout the day can help support hydration and overall body function. Maintaining adequate fluid intake may be especially important during hot weather, illness, or increased physical activity.

4. Hormonal changes and the dawn phenomenon

Some people notice their glucose levels rise in the early morning even though they have not eaten overnight. This pattern is known as the dawn phenomenon.ÌęIn the early morning hours, the body releases hormones such as cortisol and growth hormones to prepare for waking. These hormones stimulate the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream.

In people without diabetes, the body typically produces additional insulin to balance this effect. However, in people with diabetes this response may not occur, leading to higher morning glucose levels.ÌęHormonal changes during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or ageing can also influence insulin sensitivity and glucose patterns.

Identifying patterns in glucose readings may help determine whether hormonal changes are contributing to higher levels. 

5. Illness or infection

When the body is fighting illness or infection, glucose levels may increase even if a person is eating less than usual.ÌęDuring illness the body releases stress hormones that increase glucose production to provide energy for the immune system. As a result, glucose levels may rise despite reduced food intake.

When you are living with diabetes, monitoring glucose levels more frequently during illness can help identify changes early. Staying hydrated and following individual sick-day management plans may help manage glucose during these periods. If glucose levels remain very high or symptoms worsen, medical advice should be sought.

Blood glucose levels are influenced by far more than food alone. Stress, sleep, hydration, hormones, illness, medications, and daily routines can all affect how the body regulates glucose. Recognising these factors can help people understand unexpected readings and make informed decisions about their diabetes management.

Monitoring patterns over time and discussing concerns with healthcare professionals such as doctors, diabetes educators, or dietitians can help identify underlying causes and guide appropriate adjustments. Understanding the many factors that influence glucose levels can make diabetes management feel less frustrating and help you respond more confidently when their readings change.

By Robbie Tyson, Credentialled Diabetes Educator

If you live with diabetes, chances are you’ve heard it before:

“Should you be eating that?”
“Are you allowed cake?”
“I thought people with diabetes can’t have sugar?”

These comments often come up at the worst possible times—birthday parties, Christmas lunch, Easter gatherings, or when you’re simply trying to enjoy a meal out. While usually well-meaning, they can feel intrusive, judgmental, and frankly exhausting.

If you are nodding your head, you are not alone. Diabetes stigma is still very real and is an important topic for discussion.

The problem with “food policing”

As you know, diabetes management is complex, individual, and influenced by many factors—medication, other medical conditions, activity, stress, timing, and overall eating patterns.

Yet people often reduce it to a single moment:
– one slice of cake
– one dessert
– one meal

This kind of “food policing”:

• Oversimplifies diabetes
• Reinforces outdated myths
• Can create shame or guilt around food
• Undermines a person’s autonomy and lived experience

The reality? People with diabetes can include a wide variety of foods in their diet. What matters most is the overall pattern, not one occasion.

Special occasions are part of life

Food is more than fuel—it’s connection, culture, and celebration.

Whether it’s:

• Christmas dinner with all the trimmings
• Birthday cake
• Easter chocolate
• A meal out with friends

These moments matter. Managing diabetes doesn’t mean missing out, it means making informed, flexible choices that work for you.

What to do when someone comments?

Having a few go-to responses can make these situations easier. The goal isn’t to argue, it’s to set boundaries, educate (if you want to), or simply move on.

Calm and confident

• “I’ve got it under control, thanks”
• “I work this into my plan”
• “I know how this affects me”

 Light but firm

• “If I had a dollar for every time I heard that
”
• “Good thing you’re not my dietitian!”
• “I can assure you, I’ve done this before”

Educational (if you feel like it)

• “People with diabetes can eat all kinds of foods, it’s about balance”
• “It’s not just about sugar; there’s a lot more to it”
• “One food doesn’t define my health”

Boundary-setting

• “I’d rather not talk about my food choices”
• “I appreciate your concern, but I’ve got this”

And sometimes, the best response is no response at all.

The bigger picture: tackling stigma

Comments like “should you be eating that?” might seem small, but over time they contribute to:

• Feeling judged or watched
• Anxiety around eating in public
• Misunderstanding of diabetes in the wider community

Reducing stigma starts with awareness:

• Diabetes is not caused by a single food
• Management looks different for everyone
• People living with diabetes are the experts in their own care

Remember:

You don’t need to justify your food choices.
You don’t need permission to enjoy a celebration.
And you don’t need to carry the weight of other people’s misunderstandings.

By Rebecca McPhee, Accredited Practising Dietitian

Our research impact

Challenge 

Professor John Wentworth received funding from the șÚÁÏÍű Research Program in 2022 to develop a finger prick blood test to diagnose type 1 diabetes early, well before symptoms appear. Early detection saves lives and opens the door to prevention. 

Bold idea 

Leveraging additional support from JDRF, Lions Diabetes Research Foundation, Type1Foundation and other donors, he developed and implemented an inexpensive, home-based finger-prick screening test to identify children and young people who are at high risk of developing type 1 diabetes.

Impact 

John was first to show that his new test could make national screening possible. His work has attracted substantial additional funding of $4M from BreakthroughT1D to scale up testing capacity and bring the test into routine clinical use over coming years.   

This simple test will help reach regional and remote communities, improve quality of life, and reduce healthcare costs—while accelerating trials for treatments to eliminate the need for lifelong insulin injections. The impact goes beyond Australia. Countries such as Italy have legislated universal screening, and global demand is growing.  

“Our ultimate goal is to develop capacity to screen every five-year-old child in Australia, identify the 1 in 300 who are at risk and make sure they have access to prevention therapies.” 

~ Professor John Wentworth

Learn more about diabetes research and our research impact.