Exercise for Athletes with Diabetes

Physical activity has long been considered to be beneficial to individuals with all forms of diabetes mellitus. Regular exercise improves glucose control and a variety of metabolic risk factors associated with the disease. In addition, exercise may decrease the risk for developing diabetes in individuals at risk. Most of the benefits of physical activity are related to improved insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake resulting in changes in body weight and composition. Athletes with diabetes mellitus need education and guidance regarding concerns with athletic activity in patients with diabetes including hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia in an attempt to maintain their overall health status. In addition the effects of exercise are often altered by many of the medications in common use in this population. With appropriate prescreening for relevant complications and proper understanding of diet and drug interactions, most athletes with diabetes mellitus can enjoy the benefits of physical activity safely.