Abstract

The literature shows that patients with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus benefit from motion and that this results in improved physical capacity, better metabolic regulation and reduced insulin requirements. A man aged 35 years with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus completed the Wonderful Copenhagen Marathon race in 1986 without major problems. During the race, blood sugar was measured on several occasions (13.6-6.6 mmol/l). No hypoglycaemic symptoms occurred during the actual race but slight symptoms developed after the race and these disappeared after ingestion of carbohydrate. It is concluded that athletes with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus with reasonable metabolic regulation and suitable regular training are capable of participating in major physical challenges such as marathon races. Verf.-Referat