LYD1A KERR

Running is an interesting one, and personally what works for me on one run, might not work for me on my next one. So welcome to my Running Diaries! A series to keep track of my progress, and to keep tabs on what works and what doesn’t.

Note: I use a Tandem T-Slim X2 insulin pump and Dexcom G7 Continuous Glucose Monitor. When I remember, I use Exercise Mode in advance of and during my run.

I’m currently half way through my 8 week “Get Fit” programme with Runna. Here’s how I’ve found it so far:

First few weeks of the programme

• Generally running 5 km/3.1 miles in 35-40 minutes with stops
• I kept forgetting to change my correction factor, so I frequently had more insulin on board due to correction doses – which meant I kept finishing runs with low blood sugar.
• I counteracted this by drinking some sugary sports drink before I head out, but on one run I took it too far and had a whole slice of toast with chocolate spread AND a granola bar right before I ran, so had an incredibly uncomfortable stitch the whole time.

Middle of the programme

• Generally running 5km/3.1 miles in 33-35 minutes, less stops
• I ran 4.8 miles one day which is my longest run to date. Thankfully my blood sugars were in a good way and I really enjoyed this.
• I’ve learnt to change the correction factor on my pump to give me 1 unit for every 10 mmol/L. This has helped me to avoid high blood sugars
• But this also means I’m experiencing the opposite – coming back from runs and having my blood sugars actively rocketing. This can also happen due to the body being stressed out and increasing blood sugar level (read my blog on the irony of exercise and t1d). Not ideal!
• I’ve learnt that I should always cover my breakfast with the normal amount of insulin, then leave it a couple of hours before I run to avoid any massive highs or lows.

End of the programme… to be discovered!!

Thank you for reading ❤

Love, Lydia x