Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – March 27, 2026 – In the latest edition of the popular weekly health column “Living Well with Diabetes”, Dr. Annie Tan, Malaysian endocrinologist and certified Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) physician, answers a common concern: “How Should You Adjust Diabetes Management When Travelling?”
The column offers practical, easy-to-follow advice on how to stay in control of blood glucose levels while on the road, in the air, or during holidays, blending Western medical recommendations with supportive Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles.
Key Insights from the Column
From a Western medicine perspective, successful travel with diabetes starts with careful planning. Key recommendations include packing double the usual supplies (medications, testing strips, CGM sensors, and snacks), carrying everything in carry-on luggage, and adjusting medication timing gradually according to the body clock when crossing time zones. More frequent glucose monitoring is advised due to changes in meals, activity levels, and stress. Staying well hydrated, researching airport security rules, and identifying healthcare options at the destination are also essential. Carrying snacks, glucose tablets, and a medical ID bracelet is strongly recommended.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) viewpoint, travel can disrupt Qi flow, leading to fatigue or dampness accumulation, especially from irregular eating and jet lag. To support the body during transitions, TCM suggests maintaining warm and balanced meals whenever possible, using ginger or mild digestive herbs to promote stomach harmony, and incorporating gentle movement such as stretching or Qigong to prevent Qi stagnation. Emotional calm and adequate rest are important to support the spleen and kidney systems.
Integrating both approaches, Dr. Annie Tan advises meticulous Western-style preparation (extra supplies and frequent monitoring) while incorporating TCM principles of regularity, warmth, and gentle movement. With good planning, travel can remain enjoyable without causing major glucose disruptions. The column encourages travellers to test glucose levels often and adjust flexibly as needed.
“Travel doesn’t have to derail your diabetes management,” said Dr. Annie Tan. “By planning ahead with extra supplies and frequent monitoring, while supporting your body with warm meals, gentle movement, and rest, you can enjoy your journey with greater confidence and fewer surprises. Preparation and flexibility are the keys to successful travel with diabetes.”
This column is part of the ongoing 20-week series “Living Well with Diabetes”, which provides practical, everyday guidance by blending Western clinical guidelines (including the Malaysian Clinical Practice Guidelines on Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus) with TCM principles. With Malaysia facing a high diabetes prevalence of approximately 21.1% among adults, the series aims to empower readers with balanced, culturally relevant tools for better self-management.
The full column is now available in print and digital editions. Readers are encouraged to follow the weekly series for more useful advice on living well with diabetes.
The column is for informational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Readers should always consult their doctors or qualified registered TCM practitioners before travelling or making changes to their diabetes routine.
About Dr. Annie Tan
Dr. Annie Tan is a Malaysian endocrinologist and certified Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) physician. She brings dual expertise in Western diabetes care and TCM, aligned with Malaysian regulatory standards including the Traditional and Complementary Medicine (T&CM) Act 2016. She is committed to providing practical, culturally sensitive education that helps patients integrate lifestyle, medical therapy, and complementary approaches for improved long-term outcomes.
About Sante Wellness TCM Pte Ltd
Sante Wellness TCM Pte Ltd (also known as 富康中医养生) is a wellness centre specialising in Traditional Chinese Medicine services, including meridian therapy and holistic care. For more information, visit www.sante-wellness.com.
About Fu Neng Yuan Sdn Bhd
Fu Neng Yuan Sdn Bhd is associated with innovative health solutions, including Low Frequency Pulse Therapy. For more details, visit fnyglobal.asia.
The full column is now available in print and digital editions. Readers are encouraged to follow the weekly series for more useful advice on living well with diabetes.
The column is for informational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Readers should always consult their doctors or qualified registered TCM practitioners for individual care, especially regarding foot health and any complementary therapies.

Note to Editors: The full text of the column “How Should You Adjust Diabetes Management When Travelling?” is available upon request. Previous columns in the series covering daily eating, exercise, honey consumption, lemon water, stress management, motivation, weight management, foot care, prevention of complications, herbs and supplements, and acupuncture are also available for feature stories or syndication.