An evaluation of how exercise position statement guidelines are being used in the real world in type 1 diabetes: Findings from the type 1 diabetes exercise initiative (T1DEXI)

Aims

Position statement guidelines should help people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) improve glucose outcomes during exercise.

Methods

In a 4-week observational study, continuous glucose, insulin, and nutrient data were collected from 561 adults with T1D. Glucose outcomes were calculated during exercise, post-exercise, and overnight, and were compared for sessions when participants used versus did not use exercise guidelines for open-loop (OL) and automated insulin delivery (AID) therapy.

Results

Guidelines requiring behaviour modification were rarely used while guidelines not requiring modification were often used. The guideline recommending reduced meal insulin before exercise was associated with lower time <3.9 mmol/L during exercise (−2.2 %, P=0.02) for OL but not significant for AID (−1.4 %, P=0.27). Compared to exercise with low glucose (<3.9 mmol/L) in prior 24-hours, sessions without recent low glucose had lower time <3.9 mmol/L during exercise (−1.2 %, P<0.001). The AID guideline for no carbohydrates before exercise when CGM is flat, or increasing, was not associated with improved glycaemia.

Conclusions

Free-living datasets may be used to evaluate usage and benefit of position statement guidelines. Evidence suggests OL participants who reduced meal insulin prior to exercise and did not have low glucose in the prior 24 h had less time below range.