"The 33"-Road Bike Racing - Cycling and Diabetes...

Could I ever be successful on a Cat-2 or Cat-3 level with type 2 diabetes?

Could I ever be successful on a Cat-2 or Cat-3 level with type 2 diabetes?

There are type 1 diabetics that are professional athletes, but never heard of type 2. I figured by the time you rode enough to be Cat 2/3, any problems with type2 diabetes would be gone?

http://teamtype1.org/

They even have a type 2 squad. You can do anything you want, don't let silly disease get in your way ;)

Anyway, is this to say you're a cat 4 or 5 now? Or just interested in racing? I'd say don't let it stop you. If type 1's can compete in tours with the pros (BTW TT1 is in the tour of california right now. They also had a member take the KOM in the tour of ireland), I don't see why a type 2 couldn't make cat 2-3, or pro ;) They are very inspiring people, but yes it is a LOT of extra work.

Well that's good to know. I'm waiting for lab work. But I would like to do a race or two by the end of the year... and a lot more next year.

Are you newly diagnosed? Exercise and weight loss can be extremely beneficial in treating diabetes, probably the most important step in decreasing or even halting disease progression (weight loss being more important).

Exercise helps tremendously in boosting insulin sensitivity and may release you from all symptoms with a smart diet. About the only difference related to cycling between you and the next guy is that you'll have to be a little more mindful about carbs. You probably won't be able to pull off late night ice cream binges without ill effect and you might want to look into Ezekiel bread (I think only Whole Foods and the like carry it).

Not everyone can make it to cat 2 or 3 without diabetes. You may make it or you may not, I doubt that diabetes would be the deciding factor. You may as well give it a go, and good luck to you.