Comparing the effects of three exercise intensities on the prevention of hypoglycemia in people with type 1 diabetes

Abstract

The appropriate intensity of exercise needed to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia (≤3.9 mmol/L) in persons with type 1 diabetes (T1D) is not known.

Ten participants with T1D performed four exercise sessions on a treadmill lasting 45 minutes: a control condition at 45-55% of heart rate reserve and three high intensity sessions at 70, 80, and 90% of heart rate reserve. A blinded continuous glucose monitor was used to measure time spent ≤3.9 mmol/L and glucose variability in the 12 hours following exercise.

There were no significant changes in the percentage of time spent ≤3.9 mmol/L (p=0.58) and glucose variability as measured by mean absolute glucose change (p=0.53) and continuous overall net glycemic action (CONGA1: p=0.95; CONGA2: p=0.90; CONGA4: p=0.72) between the sessions.

High intensity exercise at 70, 80, and 90% of HRR does not significantly reduce the amount of time spent ≤3.9 mmol/L or glucose variability compared to the 45-55% session alone.