The Right Way to Fuel for Fitness

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Video Transcript

[MUSIC PLAYING] Once your doctor gives you the green light to exercise, keep the right snacks on hand to avoid dangerous dips in your blood sugar during workouts.

Always do a finger stick test before you exercise. If your blood sugar is low, don't hit the gym until your doctor recommends pre-workout snacks just for you.

Test your blood sugar during exercise, too. Ask your doctor how often to do it. Generally, if your sugar is 90-110, it's time for a healthy snack break to raise it back to above 120.

Have a treat that packs 15-20 grams of carbs.

Tasty options include a small piece of fruit, one cup of light yogurt, a granola bar, or half a sandwich.

Don't feel like bringing food or drinks to the gym? You can get 15 grams of carbs from glucose tabs or gel.

After you've had your snack or glucose, check your blood sugar 15 minutes later. If it's still low, repeat these steps until it's above 120 again. Only then is it safe to keep working out.

And keep in mind
Exercise can continue to have its effects on your blood sugar for 24 hours. So check your level more often after your workout.