Buckeye Sports Nutrition

Athletes with diabetes can compete safely as long as their blood glucose is well-controlled.  The type I diabetic needs to take insulin shots to help control blood sugar while the type II diabetic can usually control blood glucose levels with exercise and well-planned diet.  Exercise will usually affect (decrease) the type I diabetic's need for insulin and it is a serious safety concern to have this well-regulated.

All diabetics should closely monitor their levels of blood glucose using a glucometer.  A blood level of about 80-150 mg/dL is best for competition as well as good health (normal levels are 80-120).  Symptoms of high blood sugar are dizziness, fruity odor to the breath, frequent urination and thirst with the potential for loss of consciousness if levels rise too high.  Symptoms of low blood sugar (<70) are dizziness and nausea with the potential for unconsciousness if levels dip too low.  The diabetic athlete wants to eat the right amount and types of food, take the right amount of insulin and consistently exercise to define the best combination to keep blood glucose within the healthy and safe range.

The diabetic athlete should know his or her body well enough to recognize symptoms before the body goes into crisis.  An athlete who works out too hard may experience low blood glucose and should have foods available to help overcome the problem.  Current recommendations include testing the blood sugar often to be familiar with your blood sugar pattern during your sport activity.  If the blood sugar gets too low, eat or drink about 15 grams of carbohydrate to help bring it back into a safe range.

For more information on diabetes and the diabetic athlete, visit or the SCAN (Sports,  Cardiovascular an Wellness Nutritionists) websites.