children and young athletes; medical conditions, diabetes

Question 1

What is diabetes?

Answer 1

A disease where the body is unable to produce or properly use insulin.

Question 2

How many children develop type 1 diabetes every day?

Answer 2

2 or more

Question 3

Why is insufficient insulin bad for an athlete?

Answer 3

Insulin is required to allow glucose pass from the blood stream into the cells where it can be broken down to provide energy for performance.

Question 4

What is the other name for type 1 diabetes?

Answer 4

Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus

Question 5

Why is physical activity beneficial for diabetic individuals?

Answer 5

It is generally accepted that exercise is of considerable assistance in managing diabetes, as the diabetic must balance;
- Insulin by injection
- Food intake
- Physical activity
In order to obtain optimal physical performance

Question 6

What is hypoglycaemia?

Answer 6

Hypoglycaemia is developed when blood glucose levels drop below normal.

Question 7

How can an athlete obtain hypoglycaemia?

Answer 7

Through over strenuous activity the body may need to utilise extra glucose in order to provide energy for muscles. Hence, leading to a drop in blood glucose levels within the blood stream.

Question 8

What are the effects of hypoglycaemia?

Answer 8

• Potential to collapse
• Rapid pulse
• Sweating
• Shaking
• Dizziness

Question 9

How do you manage hypoglycaemia?

Answer 9

The athlete must consume easy to digest sugary foods to raise blood glucose levels, these include;
- Soft drinks
- Jelly beans
- Honey

Question 10

What may happen if hypoglycaemia is not treated quickly?

Answer 10

The athlete may lose consciousness and suffer a seizure.

Question 11

What is hyperglycaemia?

Answer 11

Hyperglycaemia is developed through elevated blood glucose levels above normal.

Question 12

How may an athlete develop hyperglycaemia during physical activity?

Answer 12

As an athlete is participating in physical activity the body may release extra sugar or glucose into the blood stream to provide muscles with extra energy to continue the activity. However, since diabetic athletes are unable to produce insulin, the glucose is not used sufficiently or effectively and sugar will stay in the blood.

Question 13

What are the effects of hyperglycaemia?

Answer 13

• Thirst
• Vomit
• Excessive urination
• Rapid breathing
• Weak pulse

Question 14

How may an athlete manage hyperglycaemia?

Answer 14

Intake of regular insulin and medical attention should be provided

Question 15

What should an athlete with diabetes do prior to physical activity?

Answer 15

Visit a doctor to receive a personalised management plan outlining;
- Insulin dosages
- Scheduling of insulin shots
- Frequency and timing of their blood sugar tests

Additionally, diabetic athletes should assure that all relevant medications are taken along with a pre-game meal to boost blood sugar levels.

Question 16

What should a diabetic athletes diet consist of?

Answer 16

Diabetic must have a balanced diet with a large portion of it consisting of high fibre carbohydrates such as;
- Wholegrain bread
- Cereals
- Vegetables
- Fruits
In order to control their blood sugar levels

Diabetics also require hourly glucose supplementation, such as a banana.

Question 17

What should coaches know and allow if their player has diabetes?

Answer 17

It is critical that coaches know the management plan for each child and allows breaks for food intake and rests in training.