CGMs and Exercise: Simplifying Diabetes Management

Exercise can be tricky when you have diabetes, whether you’re walking the dog or running a marathon. Luckily, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) make managing glucose during workouts easier than ever.

What are CGMs?

CGMs are small devices often worn on the arm or stomach to continuously track glucose. Here’s what they’re made of:

• A sensor that sits under the skin.
• A transmitter that sits above the skin.
• A receiver, often a smartphone or insulin pump.

They monitor the sugar in your interstitial fluid and send the data to the receiver in real time. CGMs also show arrows, letting you know if your levels are rising, falling, or steady. This is invaluable, especially during exercise.

How CGMs benefit exercise

CGMs bring several benefits to managing diabetes while staying active.

• Optimized performance: Real-time data helps athletes understand how exercise impacts glucose.
  • By tracking patterns, they can adjust their diet and workouts for better performance.
• Alerts for highs and lows: Sudden blood sugar drops (hypoglycemia) or spikes (hyperglycemia) can impact performance and health. CGMs provide alerts to help stabilize levels quickly.
• Personalized nutrition: According to Fede Fontana, PhD, co-founder of Enhance-d, CGM data helps athletes plan their sugar intake around exercise intensity and duration.
  • Testing diet plans, timing meals, or exercising while fasting can all provide insights for better glucose control.
• Recovery management: Monitoring glucose post-workout ensures levels return to normal, aiding recovery and preparing for the next session.

Starting glucose levels

Fontana recommends starting exercise when glucose is in—or slightly above—your target range.

Maintain safe levels by eating carbs during your workout if needed. Athletes should also double-check CGM accuracy using a blood-glucose meter.

Always consult your doctor for personalized guidance.

CGM and Tech Integration

Modern CGMs like the Dexcom G7 sync seamlessly with insulin pumps (like the Tandem t:slim X2 ) and devices like the Apple Watch. This helps users:

• Spend more time in range.
• Get hypoglycemia alerts up to 20 minutes early.
• Customize settings for their unique needs.

The Dexcom G7 also connects with apps like eddii, Happy Bob, SNAQ, Sugarmate and Glooko, making glucose management even more convenient.

CGMs in competitive sports

CGMs are allowed in most sports if medically necessary, such as for athletes with diabetes.

Many athletes get a therapeutic use exemption to ensure safe competition. However, staying updated on sports regulations is key.

Tips for athletes using CGMs

• Proper placement: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for comfort and accuracy during workouts.
• Calibrate if needed: Some CGMs need periodic calibration with a standard glucose meter.
• Focus on trends: Real-time numbers are useful, but long-term patterns give a clearer picture.
• Combine metrics: Use CGM data with other indicators like heart rate and sleep patterns for a complete view of your health.
• Stay hydrated: Dehydration can affect glucose readings, so drink plenty of water, especially during intense exercise.

Talk to your doctor

For the best results, consult your doctor or healthcare team regularly. They can help you interpret your CGM data and fine-tune your exercise and nutrition plans.

CGMs make staying active with diabetes easier and safer, helping you live life to the fullest!

This content was made possible by Dexcom, an active partner of Beyond Type 1. Beyond Type 1 maintains editorial control over its content.