There are approximately 21 million people living with diabetes in the United States, and among that population are many athletes. A new position statement from the National Athletic Trainers Association outlines several guidelines that can help athletes and their parents, coaches and health care professionals effectively manage diabetes. NATAs position statement published this month in the Journal of Athletic Training, the associations scientific publication, provides relevant information on type 1 diabetes mellitus and offers specific recommendations for athletic trainers who work with diabetic athletes. To read the entire statement in the Journal, please click here.


The primary goal of diabetes management is to maintain blood glucose levels consistently in a normal or near-normal range. Strategies to recognize, treat and prevent hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) typically include blood glucose monitoring, carbohydrate supplementation and insulin adjustments.


Although the literature supports the benefits of physical activity for people with diabetes, exercise training and competition can cause major disturbances when it comes to blood glucose management, said certified athletic trainer Carolyn C. Jimenez, PhD, ATC, lead author of NATAs position statement. Special considerations for blood glucose control, medication, travel and recovery from injury are required for all athletes with type 1 diabetes. Also critical to diabetes management is weight control and attention to nutrition.








5.       Guidelines for high blood glucose (hyperglycemia) recognition and treatment: These guidelines include prevention, signs, symptoms and treatment of hyperglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis, a condition where insufficient levels of insulin lead to hyperglycemia and the buildup of ketones (by-products of fat metabolism, which can reach toxic levels) in the blood. Diabetic ketoacidosis can be life-threatening.

6.       Emergency contact information: Include parents and/or other family members telephone numbers, physicians telephone number and consent for medical treatment (for minors).





Athletic trainers play a critical role in the prevention, recognition and immediate care of athlete with diabetes, said Jimenez. We are there to provide perspectives on proper exercise and nutrition, counsel them on proper hydration and help them keep track of the intensity of exercise sessions so they can adjust glucose and insulin levels accordingly.



