Ask the Diabetes Educator Archive

2/24/03

Q:
Is there a relationship between long workouts and blood sugar levels? Would this explain why I crave sugar and sweets throughout the day following a long morning run (a 7-13 mile run)?

A:
As for that level of exercise, you may not be eating enough to cover the output. A sweet craving may come on as a "prevention" for hypoglycemia. Our systems are smart that way. Make sure you are eating a balanced and adequate amount of food. Unrefined carbs like legumes, also high in protein, work well here. Id you're on medications, you may want to get them lowered if experiencing any low blood sugars.