The response of blood lactate and glucose in type I diabetes to a single bout of supramaximal exercise with and without carbohydrate ingestion

Abstract

This randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study closely examined the effects of carbohydrate supplementation before and throughout supramaximal exercise on blood glucose and blood lactate levels in active males between 18 and 35 years old with or without type 1 diabetes. 7 healthy males between 18 and 35 years old with IDDM (26.4±3.6 years) and 12 healthy males (29.2±3.1 years) between 18 and 35 years old without IDDM were asked to complete a baseline VO2max session, 2 self-report food and insulin logs, and two intervention sessions. Intervention sessions consisted of a 12 hour fast prior to testing, a 60 second Wingate test on a cycle ergometer, and a 5-minute lactate accumulation phase. 30 minutes of active recovery cycling was completed followed by 30 minutes of seated passive recovery. During each intervention session participants either consumed 12oz placebo drink (Crystal Light) or 12oz 6% carbohydrate drink (Dextrose and Crystal Light). Throughout all sessions blood glucose levels, blood lactate levels, heart rate, and blood pressure measurements were taken. MANOVA and Post Hoc analysis were used to calculate any significant correlations. Post Hoc analysis of the Carbohydrate supplement demonstrated a significant response to blood glucose levels in the IDDM group compared the non-IDDM group with a p-value of .00 in which the carbohydrate supplement in conjunction with the supramaximal exercise lead to an elevated blood glucose level in the IDDM group (173.56 mg/dL±8.9) compared to the non-IDDM group (100.17 mg/dL±6.9) . The IDDM group also had a significantly higher blood lactate post wingate test of 13.17 mmol/L compared to the non-IDDM group of 10.51 mmol/L with a p-value=.035. The finding suggests it is safe for healthy individuals with IDDM to participate in supramaximal exercise; however, this group should closely monitor blood glucose levels prior to this type of exercise to design a carbohydrate supplementation plan that is best suited to their needs.