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Type 1 Diabetes and the Menstrual Cycle: Where/How Does Exercise Fit in?

Author

Listed:
  • Saru Toor

    (Physical Activity and Diabetes Laboratory, Alberta Diabetes Institute, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
    Immunology and Infection Program, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada)

  • Jane E. Yardley

    (Physical Activity and Diabetes Laboratory, Alberta Diabetes Institute, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
    Augustana Faculty, University of Alberta, Camrose, AB T4V 2R3, Canada
    Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H9, Canada
    Women’s and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada)

  • Zeinab Momeni

    (Physical Activity and Diabetes Laboratory, Alberta Diabetes Institute, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
    Augustana Faculty, University of Alberta, Camrose, AB T4V 2R3, Canada
    Women’s and Children’s Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada)

Abstract

Regular exercise is associated with substantial health benefits for individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D). However, the fear of hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) due to activity-induced declines in blood glucose levels acts as a major barrier to partaking in exercise in this population. For females with T1D, hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle and their effects on blood glucose levels can act as an additional barrier. The impact that these cyclic changes may have on blood glucose and insulin needs and the consequent risk of hypoglycemia during or after exercise are still unknown in this population. Therefore, in this narrative review, we gathered existing knowledge about the menstrual cycle in T1D and the effects of different cyclic phases on substrate metabolism and glucose response to exercise in females with T1D to increase knowledge and understanding around exercise in this underrepresented population. This increased knowledge in such an understudied area can help to better inform exercise guidelines for females with T1D. It can also play an important role in eliminating a significant barrier to exercise in this population, which has the potential to increase activity, improve mental health and quality of life, and decrease the risk of diabetes-related complications.

Suggested Citation

  • Saru Toor & Jane E. Yardley & Zeinab Momeni, 2023. "Type 1 Diabetes and the Menstrual Cycle: Where/How Does Exercise Fit in?," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(4), pages 1-14, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:20:y:2023:i:4:p:2772-:d:1057702
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Zeinab Momeni & Jessica E. Logan & Ronald J. Sigal & Jane E. Yardley, 2021. "Can Resistance Exercise Be a Tool for Healthy Aging in Post-Menopausal Women with Type 1 Diabetes?," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(16), pages 1-17, August.
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