What Happens When Kids With Diabetes Exercise?
When people with diabetes exercise, they can experience low blood sugar, called hypoglycemia, or high blood sugar, called hyperglycemia. Hypoglycemia can occur during or after exercise, when the body has used up much of its stored sugar, especially if insulin levels in the body are still high following an injection. Signs of low blood sugar include sweating, lightheadedness, shakiness, weakness, anxiety, hunger, headache, problems concentrating, and confusion. More severe cases can cause fainting or seizures. Kids with diabetes may need to check blood sugar levels and have an extra snack to prevent low blood sugar levels. Or if your child is starting a rigorous exercise schedule, like training for a sport, the doctor may recommend a reduced insulin dosage to help prevent hypoglycemia. High blood sugar levels may also have to be addressed before or during exercise in children with diabetes. The muscles need more energy during exercise, so the body responds by releasing extra sugar, or g
