Originally Posted by
PeteHski
For a relatively modest outlay, you can test it for yourself in real-time with a blood glucose monitor. Even relatively moderate exercise blunts blood sugar spikes significantly.
One thing to avoid is taking on simple carbs in the hour before starting your workout as that will trigger a spike and subsequent dip in your blood sugar when you least want it. So either eat 3 hours before, so that your blood sugar has returned to fasted level or take on the carbs once you are warmed up during your workout. On a long ride I usually start fuelling after about 30-45 mins on the bike if I need more energy for later in the ride.
Thanks. I've got the blood glucose meter and used to test extensively. That is how I know that there is not much better than moderate exercise to control BG's.
My concern was with insulin response. Many people have poor insulin control but never know it, as the docs typically only do front line tests for BG's/AIC - meanwhile their insulin levels can be thru the roof. And that can be a major health concern - a silent one.
I was concerned that heavy sugar intake on the bike, something that I am willing to do for performance when required, may cause high insulin levels. And that doing it often, over long periods may not be a good thing... but now I understand that's not the case.