Physical Activity and Diabetes Mellitus

Physical activity causes increased metabolic demands that stimulate an increase in fuel mobilization and oxidation, or burning, in the body, In the athlete without diabetes mellitus, the body adjusts to these metabolic demands appropriately by altering hormonal balances and secretions.This appropriate hormonal regulation helps maintain blood glucose levels within desirable range.Unfortunately, these metabolic and hormonal adjustments are absent or impaired in athletes with diabetes Mellitus.Without this appropriate metabolic and hormonal control,athletes with diabetes are at risk for serious complications ( hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia ) that can adversely affect their ability to exercise and perform to their best. Ultimately, the physiological,  hormonal, and metabolic effects physical activity has on the athlete with diabetes significantly influence the type, duration, and intensity of activity the athlete can safely participate in.There are two basic types of diabetes Mellitus.Insulin dependent diabetes mellitus ( IDDM ) or type 1 diabetes ( in the past this was known as juvenile onset diabetes ).Noninsulin dependent diabetes mellitus ( NIDDM ),or type 2 diabetes (in the pass this was known as adult onset diabetes ).