Nutritional support for a person with type 1 diabetes undertaking endurance swimming

Abstract

Long distance and open water swimming have increased in popularity over recent years. Swimming a long distance in lakes, rivers and the sea present numerous challenges, including cold water exposure and maintaining adequate nutritional intake to fuel exercising muscles. Guidelines exist outlining issues to consider and potential solutions to overcome the difficulties in feeding athletes. Exercising with type 1 diabetes adds further complexity, mostly around matching insulin to the recommended high carbohydrate intake, but also because of the way in which higher circulating insulin levels affect glucose utilisation and fat oxidation. This paper describes the nutritional considerations for people with type 1 diabetes intending to undertake long distance open water events, and insulin management suggestions to trial alongside. In addition, we include personal testimony from a swimmer with type 1 diabetes describing the challenges and considerations he faced when undertaking marathon swimming.

Nutritional Management of Athletes with Type 1 Diabetes: A Narrative Review

“…Even if protein catabolism minimally contributes to PA in terms of energy, correct intake of protein appears fundamental to enhancing recovery periods thus indirectly improving physical performance. People living with T1DM engaging in PA need 1.1–1.5 g of protein per kilogram of weight [ 72 ]. Strength training and long-duration aerobic training athletes must be particularly aware of the need to consume a sufficient amount of protein.…”