Using Online Shopping to Help Manage Your Diabetes

An advantage that has come from a global pandemic is that more businesses are offering more conveniences to their consumers. If you're like me, you have taken full advantage of these opportunities. Even before the pandemic, I was using online shopping and delivery services in order to take better care of myself.

Online shopping with type 2 diabetes

Here are some ways that you can utilize these changes to your advantage.

Take your time reading labels and shopping

I hate shopping in stores, but having to read labels can turn a grocery trip into a half-day event. I don't have the time or patience for that. Some labels have writing so small it can trigger a migraine. Instead of fighting crowds, worrying about getting in other peoples' way, and trying to read every single label, you can sit in the comfort of your own home and cruise the net looking for what you need. Many sites have the ingredients and nutrition facts listed now or have pictures of them. If they're not there, there's always Google. Enlarge the print if it's too small. Add things to your cart throughout the week or month as you run out or decide you need it.

Bulk-buy without a required paid membership

Costco's Kirkland products, among others, are often available online and sometimes even have better prices than they do in the store. For me, it's easiest to get zero-sugar hydration beverages, sparkling water, and healthy, non-perishable snack options through places like Amazon. They are not only delivered to my door but carried up the steps to my apartment for me. I stock up on my favorites and have everything I need on hand when I need or want it.

Try new products

Newly diagnosed or just curious about the latest diabetic or keto products? This is a way for you to get a little braver about the products you hear about. You can get good deals, have more flavor options, and read the reviews and see how other people like them before you take the dive into purchasing. Looking into new products is a great way for you to diversify your diet more while sticking to healthy, diabetic-friendly options.

Set alerts for your favorite products

Is it a challenge to get your favorite products because they fly off the shelves so quickly? (Toilet paper comes to mind this year)! On Amazon and some other sites, you can set an alarm on the website and you will get a notification when it's back in stock! This way, you can buy it right away and have it sent to your door without fighting people who are unnecessarily hoarding everything!

Use budget-friendly deals for meal prep

Have you been wanting to try the latest recipes on Type2Diabetes.com? You don't want to trudge out in the cold winter sludge to get ingredients? On a tight budget? Receiving Electronic Benefits Transfer - Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (EBT SNAP) benefits? Online shopping may be a good option for you. Some sites take EBT SNAP, but many delivery services haven't been approved for that yet. However, many chain stores, like Kroger, now have "click list" options. These are contactless options where you order online, and an employee shops and loads things into your car. Shopping online gives you a better picture of how much you're spending and on what before placing your order. Avoid those awkward "I'll just put these things back" moments to the cashier. Amazon actually offers additional coupons and discounts for certain products if you use your EBT SNAP benefits with them. That's more bang for your buck!

There are more benefits to using online and delivery services. I've actually been using them for a few years now, long before the pandemic. It makes my life so much easier and allows me to avoid temptations more. With the extra time you gain, you could catch up on house chores or do something fun! Whatever you want!

We'd love to hear about your experiences! Why do you like these conveniences? What do you do with the time and money you save?