RAGBRAI with Diabetes 🩸
Can you do RAGBRAI with diabetes? I don’t see why not; although I’m sure it takes some extra planning and effort. Just look at Team Novo Nordisk! They all have Type-1 diabetes; and as pro cyclists, they do serious training.
How does the recreational cyclist who has diabetes manage on-bike fueling? Does what you eat, and how much of it, depend on how hard you’re going?
Years of reading have taught me that, during exercise, you burn both fat and carbs; but whether you use a higher ratio of fat or carbs depends on the intensity. In recent weeks, my Garmin’s data show that most of my riding time is spent in my heart-rate zones 3 (steady/tempo) and 4 (brisk/lactate threshold). But must I ride in Zone 5 (max) to burn off lots of carbs?
I can’t help but think of all the carbs along the RAGBRAI route; and doing RAGBRAI with diabetes must make eating hard. At every turn, there’s yummy pie; ice cream; pancake breakfasts; and so on.
Just Count Calories? 🌮🍕🍪🍌
If weight loss through cycling is your main goal, focus primarily on burning calories; and worry less about fat vs carbs. Just count calories!
For folks who have diabetes, it can be a lot more complicated. According to some accounts, lifestyle changes can reverse Type-2 diabetes; but not all are so lucky. Depending on the severity of the condition, these riders must constantly monitor glucose levels; and be on guard for signs that blood glucose is either rising too high, or dropping too low.
I just count calories when it comes to ride food; and aim to finish a ride with a slight calorie deficit. After all, I’ve got 12 or so excess pounds to ride off!
This blog/page may contain affiliate links.
“We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.”
ABOUT ME
I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story.
I live in New Orleans; and retired in January 2023. More time for cycling!
Website designed by Cecile Levert
© This website is the property of its author.
DISCLAIMER
I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.
TRANSLATOR
