Influence of Menstrual Cycle Phases on the Glycemic Control of Aerobic or HIIT Exercise in Adult Women With Type 1 Diabetes

Influence of Menstrual Cycle Phases on the Glycemic Control of Aerobic or HIIT Exercise in Adult Women With Type 1 Diabetes (DIABETEXX/2)

Continuous glucose monitors, as a technology that aims to improve glycaemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes, must always adjust to changes in blood glucose levels in these patients, e.g. during sporting activities. In women, in particular, menstruation and its different phases can affect blood glucose levels in different ways. Therefore, this study aims to determine whether there is a different behaviour of blood glucose levels during aerobic or high-intensity exercise in different phases of menstruation. If so, we will try to model this behaviour and create specific guidelines in this regard in terms of physical exercise programming in women. In addition, the information derived from this study will be used to design better artificial pancreas systems that take into account the effects of the menstrual cycle in women.

Inclusion Criteria:

Age between 18-45 years T1D with a diabetes duration for more than 2 years Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) < 8.5% (<69 mmol mol-1) Stable insulin regimen in the past 6 months with less than 20% change in total insulin daily dose Multiple daily injections or insulin pump Weekly physical activity of 90 min or more, but no practicing any sport as amateur or professional.

Exclusion Criteria:

Clinical conditions or use of medications (other than insulin) known to affect glycemic control (e.g., oral/parenteral steroids or metformin, among others).