Looking for the perfect gift to brighten your 'diabestie's' holiday season? It's a thoughtful gesture to show you care, whether you're navigating the highs and lows of diabetes together or simply want to treat yourself. Here's a curated list of top picks from 2025 that can make life with diabetes a little easier and a lot more fun, suitable for anyone living with type 1, LADA, type 2, or other less common types of diabetes. (For a deeper dive into the different types, check out this resource).
Glow Gummies:
In 2025, Glow Glucose Gummies (glowgummies.com) became a popular and tasty solution for treating low blood sugar. These gummies come in classic flavors like Berry, Strawberry, and Orange, available year-round. They also offer limited-edition collaborations, such as the Blue Raspberry flavor with Tandem and Mango with Omnipod. A great tip: you can often save money by purchasing them in a bundle, making the holidays the perfect time to stock up on these low blood sugar lifesavers!
One2One Diabetes Travel Bags:
For those who love to travel, One2One Diabetes (one2onediabetes.com) offers stylish travel bags designed to make managing diabetes on the go a breeze. These bags come in various shapes, colors, and styles, perfect for carrying diabetes supplies and medications. Whether it's a long trip with your 'diabestie' or a weekend getaway for your child with T1D, you're sure to find a bag that suits your needs. You can also find fun accessories like diabetes pins, sweatshirts, and hats to complete your travel gear.
Children's Books About Type 1 Diabetes:
There are numerous children's books that explain what it's like to live with T1D ([beyondtype1.org/type-1-diabetes-childrens-books/]). Titles like "Rosie Becomes a Warrior", "Year One with Type One", "Ain’t Gonna Hide My T1D", and "Teddy Talks: A Pawsitive Story About Type 1 Diabetes" offer relatable stories for children with diabetes, helping them understand and feel confident in managing their condition. These books are available for different ages and interests, providing support and encouragement for young readers.
Books for Adults with Type 1 Diabetes:
Adults with T1D can also find a wealth of resources in the form of books ([beyondtype1.org/type-1-diabetes-books/]). Popular titles include "Diabetes Sucks and You Can Handle It", "Think Like a Pancreas", and "Bright Spots & Landmines." These books cover a wide range of topics and perspectives, catering to different stages of the diabetes journey.
Not Just a Patch CGM Adhesives:
In 2025, Not Just a Patch (tjustapatch.com/our-story) introduced fun and funky-shaped continuous glucose monitor (CGM) adhesives, approved for use in the U.S. and E.U. ([beyondtype1.org/beyond-type-1s-continuous-glucose-monitor-cgm-chart/]). Whether you use a Freestyle Libre, Dexcom, or Medtronic CGM, you can find colorful patches to secure your device. They also offer patches for Omnipod insulin pumps, insulin coolers, and diabetes socks.
Diabuddies from Type One Together:
Type One Together (typeonetogether.com) offers adorable plush "Diabuddies" that resonate especially well with children with type 1 diabetes. You can find reindeer, unicorns, dinosaurs, and other animals "living with T1D" on their website. Each Diabuddy is handmade and comes with two sewn-on device patches of your choice, making them a truly unique and personalized gift.
T1D Barbie:
T1D Barbie made headlines in 2025! (www.breakthrought1d.org/barbie/) This doll is a touching gift for adult collectors or children who want a Barbie that looks like them. While initially hard to find, you can check Mattel's website (shop.mattel.com/products/barbie-fashionistas-doll-with-type-1-diabetes-polka-dot-outfit-hyt97) for availability.
Unique Etsy Finds:
Etsy is a treasure trove of unique gifts for people with diabetes. You can find t-shirts, sweatshirts, insulin vial charms, phone stickers, and more that can be personalized for your loved one. Plus, you're supporting small businesses! Just search "type 1 diabetes" or "diabetes" on Etsy to find items that resonate with you. Whether it's a shirt that says "I Run on Insulin & Diet Coke", a "12 Days of Diabetes" sweater, an insulin car charm, or a fun sticker, you're sure to find something that says, "I get you."
Swoon Beverages:
Beyond Diet Coke, the sugar-free beverage market saw a new player in 2025: Swoon (tasteswoon.com). This company was created by two women who understand T1D. Co-founder Jen, who lives with T1D, created Swoon so she could enjoy sweetness without sacrificing flavor. Rylee Arnold, a Dancing with the Stars pro with T1D, frequently shared about them, raving about the taste. They offer flavors like pink lemonade, peach iced tea, half and half, and ginger lemonade. If you can't find a Swoon flavor you like, Zevia (zevia.com) is another great option, with their Salted Caramel flavor being especially popular during the holiday season.
Diabetes Gifts Aren't for Everyone:
It's important to remember that not everyone with diabetes enjoys or appreciates diabetes-related gifts. If you're unsure, the best approach is to simply ask! They'll appreciate your thoughtfulness and the open conversation. What are your thoughts on these gift ideas? Do you have any other suggestions for diabetes-friendly presents? Share your opinions in the comments below!
