Introduction

Managing Type 1 Diabetes requires exercise as an important component of a healthy lifestyle. Physical activity not only helps control blood sugar levels but can also improve overall physical and mental well-being. In this edition of GluCare Chronicles, we look at how exercise helps people with Type 1 Diabetes and give tips for staying active. 

What is Type 1 Diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong autoimmune condition that disrupts insulin production, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels.

Difference between Type 1 Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes commonly develops during childhood or adolescence and cannot be prevented, unlike Type 2 diabetes which is often connected to lifestyle factors and obesity. Managing Type 1 diabetes involves ongoing insulin, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications.

How Does Exercise Affect Type 1 Diabetes?

Regular exercise plays an important role in managing Type 1 diabetes for a variety of health and fitness reasons. However, maintaining glucose levels during training is challenging due to several factors influencing glycemic responses to exercise. These include exercise type, carbohydrate intake, on-board insulin level, and counterregulatory hormone levels such as adrenaline and cortisol.

Ways exercise can benefit individuals with Type 1 diabetes:

Improve Blood Sugar Control

When you exercise, your muscles require glucose for energy. This causes your blood glucose levels to decrease as glucose moves from the bloodstream into the muscle cells. Regular physical activity can help improve insulin sensitivity, which allows for better glucose uptake and lowers blood glucose levels over time. The use of Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) is beneficial as they offer real-time data during exercise, allowing users to assess the impact on their blood sugar levels and make necessary adjustments to insulin dosages or requirements for carbohydrate intake.

Weight Management and Cardiovascular Health

Including exercise in your daily routine can assist with weight loss or management. This is particularly important for individuals with Type 1 Diabetes, as obesity can exacerbate diabetes complications such as kidney impairment. Regular exercise improves heart health by lowering risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and inflammation. Exercise can also improve insulin resistance, a common issue in Type 1 Diabetes with overweight or obesity.

Stress Reduction and Mental Health

Exercise can help reduce stress levels, which is important for individuals with diabetes as high stress increases cortisol levels which is an insulin antagonist hormone and it can contribute to elevated blood glucose. Additionally, exercise releases endorphins, which can improve mood and decrease feelings of anxiety and depression.

Tools for Exercise Success with Type 1 Diabetes

Managing your blood sugar while exercising can be tricky with Type 1 diabetes. But with the right tools and support, you can still enjoy the benefits of staying active. Using tools like CGMs and insulin pumps can help you keep track of your levels and adjust as needed. Talk to your doctor to create a plan that works for you and your lifestyle.

How Much Exercise is Safe for People with Type 1 Diabetes?

Exercise is beneficial for individuals with Type 1 Diabetes, but it’s important to engage in it safely and under medical advice as any type of exercise (aerobic, interval, or resistance) can impact glucose levels. The universal recommendation is 150 minutes per week of accumulated moderate- to vigorous-intensity exercise. However, this recommendation must be individualized.

General guidelines for exercising with Type 1 Diabetes, including the use of CGM and insulin pumps:

• Consult with Your Healthcare Provider: Speak with your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise routine, as they can help you determine what type and amount of exercise is appropriate for your health status and diabetes management goals. They can also guide how to incorporate the use of CGM and insulin pumps into your exercise routine.
• Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Before, during, and after exercise, it is important to monitor your blood sugar levels using CGM to assess how your body is responding to physical activity. This can help to take action to avoid episodes of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) as well as high blood sugar (hyperglycemia).
• Incorporate a Variety of Exercise: Incorporate a mix of aerobic and resistance exercises into your routine to achieve the benefits of both types. Aerobic exercise, such as walking, running, or cycling, helps improve cardiovascular health, while resistance exercises, such as lifting weights, can improve muscle strength and function. Insulin pumps can be programmed to deliver tailored insulin doses according to your exercise routine and blood sugar levels.
• Stay Hydrated: Maintain good hydration status during exercise by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after exercise. Optimal hydration helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports overall health.
• Carry Emergency Supplies: Carry glucose or fast-acting carbohydrate sources with you during exercise in case of a low blood sugar episode. CGM devices can provide alerts for low blood sugar, allowing for prompt action.

Conclusion

Incorporating exercise into your Type 1 Diabetes management plan can be incredibly beneficial for your overall health and well-being. Regular exercise can help with blood sugar control, weight management, cardiovascular health, stress reduction, and mental health. At GluCare.Health, we understand the importance of exercise in diabetes management and can provide guidance and support to ensure that you engage in safe and effective physical activity, including using CGM systems and insulin pumps.

Remember, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise routine and to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly. With a tailored exercise plan, adequate medical support, and the use of diabetes technologies like insulin pumps and CGM systems, you can thrive with Type 1 diabetes and enjoy the benefits of regular exercise.

Contact GluCare.Health Today to learn more about how we can support you in optimizing your diabetes management.