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Best Mother’s Day Gifts for Someone with Diabetes

5 Minute Read

With Mother’s Day coming up Sunday, May 12, there’s no time to waste to find a special present for your special person with diabetes. 

Looking to show your mom or another MWD (mom with diabetes) how much you appreciate them? Rest easy – diaTribe has hand-picked 12 great diabetes gifts for Mother’s Day. 

To make sure these presents pass the all-important reality check, we consulted some MWDs in the know including Jennifer Smith. Working primarily with women as the director of lifestyle and nutrition at Integrated Diabetes Services, Smith has type 1 diabetes and is a mother of two boys. 

What is her key to nailing a Mother's Day gift for someone with diabetes? “You have to know the person,” said Smith. “And the gift might have nothing to do with diabetes.” 

If you want even more selection, check out diaTribe’s roundup of thoughtful gifts for people with diabetes. Or, just get scrolling.  

1. Sleep Well Face and Body Mist, $23, Saje

Saje Sleep Well Face and Body Mist

When it comes to interrupted sleep, the struggle is real for people living with diabetes – all the more important because a good night’s sleep has been called the “most forgotten blood sugar strategy.” 

Why she’ll like it: This relaxing earthy spray – which can be sprayed directly onto skin or lightly spritzed on pillows or sheets at bedtime – can help your mother drift off to sleep more easily. If she’s not a fan of strong fragrances, consider giving her a vial of Roman Chamomile Oil ($69.33 for 5 mL) instead. The oil is said to have a calming effect when consumed, which is why Smith recommends putting a drop into a glass of water and drinking before bedtime. Too many steps? Numi's Self-Care Sampler of herbal teas ($32.99 for 40 packets) can serve up a different soothing cuppa each night. 

Mother's Day pick: Sleep Well Face and Body Mist, $23, Saje

2. Cloud Massage Shiatsu Foot Massager, $246, Amazon

Keeping blood circulation flowing is one of the top tips for taking care of foot health if you have diabetes. Other self-care tips for feet include wearing close-toed shoes and socks (rather than going barefoot) and protecting feet from too-hot or cold temperatures. 

Why she’ll like it: Who doesn’t love a good foot rub? This Shiatsu foot massager machine is regularly rated among the best on the market. Not in your budget? The IIITHREE Women's Open Toe Memory Foam Slippers ($19.99) have soft adjustable straps and can be worn indoors or out. This can help ease symptoms of neuropathy such as sensitivity and swelling. Is Mom style-conscious? Opt for a pack of Non-Binding Socks for Women ($29.99 for three pairs).  

Mother's Day pick: Cloud Massage Shiatsu Foot Massager, $246, Amazon

3. CeraVe Healing Ointment, $11 for 3 oz., Ulta Beauty

Many people with diabetes suffer from dry skin. Why? 

“Your body wants equilibrium so you draw in water from other organs and body parts to dilute high glucose levels in the blood,” said Noelle Wands, a physician assistant in dermatology who lives with type 1 diabetes. 

Why she’ll like it: This affordable CeraVe ointment, recommended by the National Eczema Association, contains three important types of ceramides (1, 3, and 6-II), which lock moisture into the skin. “Ceramides help prevent and heal dry skin and overall improve the skin’s barrier,” said Wands. With regular application, this ointment can lessen dry skin and cracked hands and feet. If this idea doesn’t feel gift-y enough, splurge on L'Occitane’s skin-nourishing Shea Butter Collection ($85), which comes with hand, foot, and body cream as well as soap for sensitive skin. 

Mother's Day pick: CeraVe Healing Ointment, $11 for 3 oz., Ulta Beauty

4. Diabetes-Friendly Meal Service Gift, $100 and up, Sunbasket

Whether someone is newly diagnosed with diabetes and following a new diet or they’re having trouble finding time to cook, putting healthy, diabetes-friendly meals on the table can be a challenge. For busy parents, this can be doubly so. 

“You don't know how many parents I hear from who do so much in terms of nutrition for their children and don't really think of themselves,” said Smith. “They end up quickly grabbing something, and the ‘grab’ isn't usually the best thing.” 

Why she’ll like it: Beyond the important reason Smith shares, this particular meal service option from Sunbasket caters to people with diabetes. A $100 gift is a great way to get your mom started. Meals are delivered each week with cooking or heating instructions, and she can skip weeks or cancel the subscription at any time. Prefer to treat your mom to a homemade Mother’s Day meal? Peruse diaTribe’s plethora of recipes like low-carb breakfast in bed or a couple of sweet things

Mother's Day pick: Diabetes-Friendly Meal Service Gift, $100 and up, Sunbasket

5.Sugar-Free Diabetic Gift Basket, $72

Nothing is more stressful (or dangerous) for someone with diabetes than to be on the road without any snacks and be at risk of having low blood sugar. As such, it’s essential that people with diabetes plan ahead. Choosing lower-carb options is recommended, but sugar-free treats – including their various artificial sweeteners – can stave off sugar cravings as well. 

Why she’ll like it: Just look at that basket! From sugar-free gummies and chocolates to “skinny” popcorn, omega-3-rich mixed nuts, and protein-packed summer sausage, Mom will feel spoiled for choice. If your mother is more of a little-goes-a-long-way person, present her with Lily’s Chocolates’ Stevia-sweetened Cookies & Crème White Chocolate Style Bar or the Almond Dark Chocolate Style Bar. “Lily’s is a good brand,” said Smith. “If I’m having chocolate, it’s dark chocolate.” (The No Sugar Baker also likes Lily’s.)

Mother's Day pick: Sugar-Free Diabetic Gift Basket, $72, Walmart

6. Fifth Avenue Crystal Geometric Bedside Water Carafe, $17, Target

Some of the symptoms of high blood sugar at night are dry mouth and extreme thirst. The reasons for this mid-slumber spike range from eating too close to bedtime to taking too little insulin. The main way to prevent it is by checking your blood sugar before bed (or between midnight and 3 a.m.) and once you wake up.

Why she’ll like it: Any mother – type 1 or not – will appreciate having this chic carafe and cup within easy reach at night. Available at Target, it comes with a gold tumbler lid (you can also choose silver or clear glass). If it’s more helpful to keep Mom hydrated on the go, get her this inspiring stainless steel Diabetes Water Bottle ($18.50) or select from dozens of Etsy's other diabetes-related products.

Mother's Day pick: Fifth Avenue Crystal Geometric Bedside Water Carafe, $17, Target

7. Women's Long-Sleeved Self-Guided UPF Hike Shirt, $89, Patagonia

Women's Long-Sleeved Self-Guided UPF Hike Shirt, $89, Patagonia

A bad sunburn can wreak havoc on blood sugar balance, as can other environmental factors like temperature or high altitude. The solution, of course, is not to avoid spending time outdoors. Rather, experts like Smith – who enjoys running, cycling, and swimming (and has done two Ironman triathlons) – recommend preparing properly by wearing sunscreen and clothing with sun protection (plus warm clothes as needed) and drinking lots of water. 

Why she’ll like it: Made of recycled polyester and boasting 40+ UPF sun protection, this Patagonia performance shirt will be Mom’s new go-to top for walking, hiking, gardening, and other outdoor activities. If she prefers to get her daily dose of vitamin D poolside or at the beach, she might appreciate Shade & Shore’s stylish Women's Packable Paper Straw Floppy Hat ($10) from Target – perfect to take on vacation, too. 

Mother's Day pick: Women's Long-Sleeved Self-Guided UPF Hike Shirt, $89, Patagonia

8. The Gil Stretch Cord with Plated LOOP, $65, La Loop

Diabetes-related retinopathy, diabetes-related macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma are eye issues that people with diabetes can experience if high blood glucose damages blood vessels over time. Other than keeping blood sugars in check, using strategies for healthy eyes like wearing sunglasses and resting your eyes can prevent complications. 

Why she’ll like it: If Mom is constantly searching for her specs, this attractive necklace-style holder will come in handy. With a patented loop that allows glasses to lay flat, it comes in 16 colors with two length options (25 and 28 inches) for the loop. Want to help your mother invest in a good pair of polarized sunglasses with 100% UV protection as the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends? Take a look at Ray-Ban’s classic styles like the understated RB4378 model ($166).

Mother's Day pick: The Gil Stretch Cord with Plated LOOP, $65, La Loop

9.Mini Belt Bag, $38, lululemon

As Smith pointed out, a gift for moms with diabetes doesn't necessarily need to be diabetes-related – just like how calling someone “diabetic” is discouraged these days because it defines people by their condition. Separately, diabetes stigma, which is often linked with weight stigma, can be a major source of stress. As University of Florida assistant professor Rebecca Pearl elaborated to diaTribe, “Stigma does NOT motivate people to be healthy, it has the opposite effect and impacts health.” 

Why she’ll like it: Don’t weigh down Mom when she’s working out. Send her this sporty belt bag from lululemon to hold her insulin supplies and anything else. She’ll be ready for all eventualities without breaking her stride. There are many other fitness brands that carry tops and bottoms with discrete pockets for insulin pumps, cell phones, and snacks. Smith said she likes skorts from Athleta for this reason and gives a thumbs up to Revel Wear’s Women's Activewear Scoop Neck Tank with Insulin Pump and Cell Phone Pockets ($34.99).

Mother's Day pick: Mini Belt Bag, $38, lululemon

10. Bree Mother of Pearl Medical ID Bracelet in Silver, $63, Lauren’s Hope

For people with certain medical conditions, the American Diabetes Association recommends medical ID jewelry, which can save your life. For someone experiencing low blood sugar (particularly those who have hypoglycemia unawareness), a visible bracelet, ring, or necklace can speed up life-saving decisions by healthcare professionals and bystanders alike. 

Why she’ll like it: “Medical bracelets can be really hard to get people to wear,” said Smith. “The prettier they are, the better.” This mother-of-pearl link bracelet meets the mark. Smith also likes the functional pieces from American Medical ID that can be engraved with a phone number or other emergency information. If Mom just isn’t a jewelry person, pick her out a rectangular or round InCase Phone ID (from $24.95).

Mother's Day pick: Bree Mother of Pearl Medical ID Bracelet in Silver, $63, Lauren’s Hope

11. Calm Premium 1-Year Gift Subscription, $69.99, Calm

Calm Premium 1-Year Gift Subscription, $69.99, Calm

About 40% of people living with diabetes experience diabetes distress, which involves worries, thoughts, fears, and concerns about living with diabetes. Managing one's mental health and wellness is essential for anyone, but especially for those living with a chronic condition. 

Why she’ll like it: Touted as the top app for sleep, meditation, and relaxation, Calm’s premium plan includes more than 100 guided meditations and an entire library of Sleep Stories that can help Mom get some much-needed rest and relaxation. Alternatively, if she needs someone to talk to, Smith suggests signing up for a mental health support package like Brightside Health’s therapy sessions (from $299 a month with insurance).

Mother's Day pick: Calm Premium 1-Year Gift Subscription, $69.99, Calm

12. gorjana Soft Gold Parker Link Bracelet, $120, Fitbit

Based on the number of articles about exercise on diaTribe alone, it’s easy to tell that getting regular exercise is important for people living with diabetes, especially when it comes to weight loss and keeping blood sugars stable. 

Why she’ll like it: As of 2021, the popular Fitbit device and app have allowed users to record and track blood sugar readings as well as activity, sleep, meals, and more (Smith said she even likes hers more than the Apple Watch). The brand’s latest Designer Collection means Mom doesn’t have to choose between wearing her “sporty” watch or her “nice” one. If she could use some motivation in the workout department, hook her up with a Noom Coach ($150 for six months) or any of these other mobile coaching services for people with diabetes. 

Mother's Day pick: gorjana Soft Gold Parker Link Bracelet, $120, Fitbit