Regular Physical Activity
Exercise and physical activity are critical parts of diabetes management. Everyone can benefit from regular exercise, but it is even more important for a student with diabetes. In addition to maintaining cardiovascular fitness and controlling weight, physical activity can help to lower blood glucose levels.
Students with diabetes should participate fully in physical education classes and team sports
To maintain blood glucose levels within their target ranges during extra physical activity, students will make adjustments in their insulin and food intake. To prevent hypoglycemia, they also may need to check their blood glucose levels more frequently while engaging in physical activity.
Physical education instructors and sports coaches must be able to recognize and assist with the treatment of hypoglycemia. A quick-acting source of glucose and the student’s glucose meter should always be available, along with plenty of water.
Students using pumps may disconnect from the pump for sports activities. If they keep the pump on, they may set a temporary, reduced rate of insulin while they are playing. School personnel should provide the student with a safe location for storing the pump when the student does not wear it. The student’s Diabetes Medical Management Plan, nursing care plan, 504 Plan, IEP, or other education plan should include specific instructions.
Produced by the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP), a federally sponsored partnership of the National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and more than 200 public and private organizations.
To obtain copies of the complete publication titled, Helping the Student with Diabetes Succeed: A Guide for School Personnel (NDEP-61), please call the National Diabetes Education Program at 1-800-438-5383 or visit the program's website at www.ndep.nih.gov to download copies.
This reprint is compliments of Abbott Diabetes Care, Inc. Reproduced with permission.
Important Notice: Information provided is for general background purposes and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment by a trained professional. You should always consult your physician about any health care questions you may have, especially before trying a new medication, diet, fitness program, or approach to health care issues.
DOC14650-Rev-A 04/08
