A somewhat common concern among our athletic population, although rare, is how to treat and care for athletes with Diabetes. Diabetes plagues few of our young athletes, but can create some issues during intense training. Athletes with diabetes mellitus may be inconvenienced, but are definitely capable of continuing his or her active lifestyle and intense training. In fact, athletes who are diagnosed with diabetes I or II are encouraged to live active, healthy lifestyles.
I would like to provide a few tips to our athletes with diabetes that may help in controlling symptoms and prevent hypo or hyperglycemic reactions.
Always be aware of your blood glucose levels throughout the day and throughout training sessions. Athletes who are not yet sure of how their blood sugar is affected by exercise, should check glucose levels before, during, and after activity to ensure normal levels for the individual athlete. It is advised for insulin-dependant diabetic athletes to eat a carbohydrate rich meal a few hours before intense training which would include foods like pancakes, most breakfast cereals, pretzels, baked potato, white bread products to name a few.
Insulin-dependant athletes should also consume a carbohydrate snack during activity lasting an hour or more. Examples of good snacks would be a large banana, pretzels, sports drink, power bar, or large bagel.
I also advise diabetic athletes who tend to be hypoglycemic or hyperglycemic to carry glucose tablets, hard candy, or fruit juice along with their medication to quickly raise or lower blood sugar levels as needed.
Be aware of your individual levels and stop activity at the first sign of symptoms
