Diabetes Forecast, October 2003

Copyright © 2003 American Diabetes Association
Reprinted with permission from The American Diabetes Association

I would like to make a few comments on the article "A Bicycle Built for You" ( Diabetes Forecast, July 2003, page 78 ).  I have type 2 diabetes, and I am an avid bicycle rider. A few things that I have learned the hard way about riding a bicycle with diabetes:

Ensure that your entire medical team knows you are exercising.  You do not want to surprise them or yourself with unknown complications.

Find a riding partner.  It is actually more enjoyable to have someone along to talk with while riding.  They will also be there if you run into trouble. 

Teach your riding partner how to use your blood glucose meter and what symptoms to watch for. The effects on your body that come from riding can mask the symptoms of low blood sugar, i.e., sweating, thirst, the shakes.  I stop every five to eight miles and check my blood sugar.

Always carry food.  I carry energy gels for quick reactions to lows and some type of energy bar, crackers, or cookies.

Carry some form of identification.  I use my driver's license, ADA membership card, medical insurance card, and list of all of the drugs I take.  I also wear a MedicAlert necklace. 

I never ride without my blood glucose meter.  I have cancelled rides because I forgot it.

Always carry a cell phone, especially if you are riding alone.  It can mean the difference between getting help or not.  

Always wear a helmet.

Like we say around here, it does not matter how fast or how far you ride, it only matters that you are out there.

Elwin E. Gilchrist
Phenix City, Ala.