Blood Glucose Levels of Sub-Elite Athletes During 6 Days of Free Living

Type of content
Journal Article
Thesis discipline
Degree name
Publisher
University of Canterbury. Mechanical Engineering
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Language
Date
2016
Authors
Thomas, F.
Pretty, C.G.
Desaive, T.
Chase, Geoff
Abstract

Background: Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices, with their 1-5min measurement interval, allow blood glucose concentration (BG) dynamics to be captured more frequently and less invasively than traditional BG measures. One cohort CGM could provide insight is athletes. This study investigates what impact their heightened energy expenditure and dietary intake may have on their ability to achieve optimal BG. Methods: Ten sub-elite athletes (resting HR<60bpm, training>6hrs per week) were recruited. Two Ipro2 CGM devices (Medtronic Minimed, Northridge, CA) were inserted into the abdomen and remained in place for ~6days. Time in band was calculated as the percentage of CGM BG measurements with in the 4.0 - 6.0mmol/L. Fasting glucose was calculated using CGM calibration BG measurements and postprandial glucose response was also calculated using the CGM values. Results: 4/10 athletes studied spent more than 70% of the total monitoring time above 6.0mmol/L even with the 2hour period after meals is excluded. Fasting blood glucose was also in the ADA defined pre-diabetes range for 3/10 athletes. Only one participant spent substantial time below 4.0mmol/L which was largely due to significantly lower energy intake compared to recommendations. Conclusions: Contrary to expectations high BG appears to be more of a concern for athletes then low BG even in those with the highest energy expenditure and consuming below the recommended carbohydrate intake. This study warrants further investigation on the recommended diets and the BG of athletes to better determine the causes and impact of this hyperglycaemia on overall athlete health.

Description
Citation
Thomas, F., Pretty, C.G., Desaive, T., Chase, J.G. (2016) Blood Glucose Levels of Sub-Elite Athletes During 6 Days of Free Living. Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, (online).
Keywords
continuous glucose monitoring, hyperglycaemia, athletes, exercise, fasting blood glucose, postprandial glucose
Ngā upoko tukutuku/Māori subject headings
ANZSRC fields of research
Fields of Research::32 - Biomedical and clinical sciences::3202 - Clinical sciences::320208 - Endocrinology
Field of Research::11 - Medical and Health Sciences::1106 - Human Movement and Sports Science::110604 - Sports Medicine
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