Hi all.
Seeking advice from people that have ran marathons and effects on blood glucose levels.
I’m currently into a training program and am participating in the Hackney Half Marathon. Raised a tidy sum for Diabetes uk, which is obviously my chosen charity.
I’m running well, on target but levels dropping rapidly half hour after or during runs… I’m after advice for pre runs meals to make sure I’m fit as a fiddle for the big day and any other advice?
I appreciate this is not a diabetic solely related post, and if should be moved to a different section then admin please do so.
Much love x
Hi Jimmy,
Do you fuel during your run, as you don't mention that in your post. For a half marathon you may not feel the need to, but it can help prevent after run or during run lows. Also depends on how long you're out running. I'm not a particularly fast runner and it can take me from 2:40 to 3:00 hrs to complete a half marathon. When I ran the London marathon, whilst on MDI I ate something every hour. I didn't adjust my basal or bolus at all. I tend to go for what I call real food rather than gels (but whatever works for your stomach!!). Like a mini soren loaf. Afterwards I find a banana helps stave off going too low. I do find sometimes that when in races, compared to training runs my glucose level can rise at the beginning due to the adrenelin rush.
Are you able to monitor your glucose lelvel while out running? You mention Libre 2, do you have a way of seeing your levels on your watch or on your phone? That can help in not dropping too low, as you can then eat some glucose tablets when you're about 6 or 7, rather than waiting until lower, which I used to do. As then I used to end up too low . Another question is what are your glucose levels before you start the run? Do you start high and wait for the running to lower your level? I personally avoid starting high, but some people find that works for them. As for pre run meals that will depemd on your stomach. I used to eat porridge. But now that tends to leave me needing the toilet after an hour or so, which is not good during a race (or training) . A lot of people swear by bagels.
I'm currently on Omnipod Dash and Libre 2+, which makes it a lot easier now, as can set up a running profile that reduces the insulin whilst out running, though this can occasionally create an issue after the run that the lack of insulin then needs to be made up for, rather than needing to eat much to prevent low, though still do eat to replenish my body's needs. I have post running profile that increases my insulin for a couple of hours after running. Had to experiment to get the best settings. Might be worth asking your diabetic team for a pump. I wasn't offered one, but made a case that it would help with my running and eventually was prescribed one. This may seem like I'm an avid runner. Only been running for about 4 years now. I'm also running to raise money for Diabetes UK this year.
Wishing you well in your running. Any questions please feel free to ask anything.
