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Fluctuations in the body’s blood sugar levels may result in a number of health issues, including diabetes, which is then treated with a regimen of medications, dietary modifications, and physical activity. But just like diabetics cannot eat anything and everything (read: foods with a high glycemic index), can they sprint or run at maximum speed for brief intervals — essentially, do high-intensity exercises? Experts sound caution “for most diabetics”. Here’s why.
While sprinting is a high-intensity exercise that is useful for enhancing cardiovascular health, increasing muscle strength, and calorie burning, “it comes with some concerns for those who have diabetes”. “That is because doing heavy-duty exercises, especially by diabetics who are not used to them, can precipitate heart attacks,” warned Dr Subhendu Mohanty, interventional cardiologist, Sharda Hospital, Noida.
For diabetics, one of the “biggest dangers” of sprinting is the possibility of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), said Dr Anurag Saxena, HOD- internal medicine, Primus Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi.
“Your body needs a lot of energy to sprint, and the blood’s supply of glucose provides that energy. A diabetic who is running may have symptoms like dizziness, disorientation, weakness, or even loss of consciousness if their blood sugar level is already low or drops while they are sprinting,” Dr Saxena told indianexpress.com.
Additionally, the possibility of injury when sprinting is a worry for diabetics. “Sprinting puts a lot of strain on the joints and muscles, and diabetics are more likely to sustain an injury due to nerve damage or insufficient blood flow. The impact of sprinting might also aggravate any sores or blisters that diabetics may have on their feet,” Dr Saxena told indianexpress.com.
However, despite these dangers, it is not always true that people with diabetes shouldn’t sprint. “Sprinting and other high-intensity activities can be safely performed by diabetics with the right management and safeguards,” Dr Saxena shared.
For diabetics who want to start sprinting, here are some pointers, suggested by Dr Saxena:
*Before beginning any new exercise programme, diabetics should speak with their doctor or a trained diabetes educator to receive individualised advice and direction.
*Before, during, and after a sprint, diabetics should monitor their blood sugar levels to make sure they remain within a healthy range. To avoid hypoglycemia, they might need to modify their prescription or carbohydrate consumption.
“This may involve adjusting insulin or other medication doses, consuming a small snack before exercise, and carrying a source of glucose with them during such activity,” said Dr Sandeep Reddy, senior endocrinologist, Kamineni Hospitals, Hyderabad.
*Wear the right shoes: To reduce the risk of foot injuries, diabetics should wear well-fitting, supportive shoes.
*Warm up and cool down properly: To avoid injury and maintain healthy blood sugar levels, diabetics should warm up before running and cool down afterward.
*Carry a source of glucose: Diabetics should sprint with a source of glucose on them in case they encounter hypoglycemia, such as a glucose candy.
Reiterating that such precautions can help, Dr Reddy said that people with diabetes can safely participate in sprinting and other forms of exercise to enjoy the many health benefits that come with being physically active.
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