Continuous glucose monitoring in para cyclists: An observational study

European Journal of Sport Science, 2024 · DOI: 10.1002/ejsc.12220 · Published: November 1, 2024

Simple Explanation

This study uses continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) to understand blood sugar levels in Para cyclists, both at rest and during exercise. CGM is a tool that automatically tracks blood glucose concentrations over 24 hours. The research explores how often these athletes experience high or low blood sugar, and how accurate CGM devices are for them, especially when they are active. The study found that while Para cyclists generally have good blood sugar control, the accuracy of CGM can be lower during exercise, particularly for hand bikers.

Study Duration

2 weeks

Participants

13 Para cyclists (8 hand bikers, 5 cyclists)

Evidence Level

Level 4: Observational study

Key Findings

1
Para cyclists generally maintain blood glucose levels within the normal range (euglycemia) most of the time.
2
Athletes with spinal cord injuries (SCI) may be at a higher risk for low blood sugar during the night.
3
CGM accuracy is acceptable at rest but is compromised during exercise, particularly when the sensor is near actively working muscles.

Research Summary

This study assessed glycemic control in elite Para cyclists using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). The athletes spent most of their time in euglycemia, with mild hyperglycemia after meals and during exercise and occasional nocturnal hypoglycemia, especially in those with spinal cord injuries. CGM accuracy was satisfactory at rest but decreased during exercise, particularly in hand bikers, highlighting the need for caution when interpreting CGM data during physical activity.

Practical Implications

Dietary Strategies

The findings suggest a need for tailored dietary strategies for Para cyclists, particularly regarding pre- and post-exercise nutrition to manage glucose levels.

Monitoring for SCI Athletes

Increased monitoring for nocturnal hypoglycemia is warranted in Para athletes with spinal cord injuries.

CGM Use During Exercise

Caution is advised when using CGM during exercise, especially in activities involving significant upper arm muscle engagement, and the findings suggest the need for further refinement of CGM technology.

Study Limitations

1
Accuracy of CGM was assessed against capillary blood glucose concentrations measured by handheld capillary blood glucose monitors.
2
Lying on the sensor during sleep can occasionally result in inaccurate glucose readings.
3
Relatively small sample size, particularly in the context of subgroup analyses

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Endocrinology