The Athlete and Diabetes - What Do They Need To Do To Manage Their Disease Successfully?

Diabetes has not stopped some of the world's greatest athletes from excelling at their chosen sports. As case in point, Arthur Ashe, Joe Frazier and Ty Cobb, three famous sporting personalities, were diabetics. Athletes with diabetes need to arm themselves with the information necessary to make informed choices concerning their health and the control of their diabetes. It is also important that coaches, school personnel, or sports administration know that an athlete is diabetic, as well being aware of the possible complications and treatment. If you are an athlete with diabetes, know that through proper control, your diabetes will not stop you from being a team player and doing well.

Athletes with diabetes compete in a wide variety of sports, including marathons, cycling, and football. What these athletes do, as should any person with diabetes wanting to compete in sports or exercise, is take responsibility for their disease. Taking responsibility means doing the following:

• Testing your blood sugar before you start playing and right after you stop
• Test every half hour while playing if the activity is intense
• If your blood sugar levels are too high, avoid playing until you have lowered them through medication
• Do not play immediately after eating.  A one-hour delay is advisable in most cases
• Wear proper-fitting shoes as diabetics tend to have poor circulation

The diabetic athlete needs to form a partnership with their doctor, trainers, and others that directly impact their activities. Coaches and first aid personnel need to know the symptoms of complications that can affect a diabetic athlete, such as hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. Believing that an emergency situation will never happen is irresponsible and can place others in a frightening situation while making them powerless to help you or control the problem.

The diabetic athlete should be in tune with his or her body, recognizing every signal that it sends. Seek medical help if you feel that something is wrong; it's always better to err on the side of caution. It is a good idea to get a medic alert bracelet so that help can be given if the need arises. Getting the support of your doctor is necessary, as he or she can provide you will valuable medical information. Becoming involved with support groups can be a great source of encouragement, especially if you are an adolescent.

To learn more go to Diabetes Association and at Gestational Diabetes