blood sugar dropping while lightly exercising

[Diane783]

I used to be very active, but now at 41 yrs I have been out of exercising.  I want to get back to it, but at 10 min on a treadmill at a reasonable walking pace I feel my blood sugar dropping.  I have a glucose monitor at it has been about 65.  Endrocrinologist has said I am reactive hypoglycemic but has no reasons for it.  Without exercising I run about 85-95 very consistently even when I feel like I am "running low".  So, I am afraid to exercise and I miss it!!!  Any advice would be appreciated.

[Niffer991]

Well think of it, when exercising the oxygen and muscles must go to the muscles, but if you are digesting that is where all the oxygen and blood is going. If you exercise with food in your stomach then it stops or impairs your digestion. You may even get cramps from such a thing. If you are to eat anything right before or during it would be a juice that you can sip on. Yes just eat earlier (Carbs) and give your body time to digest.

I am glad to help
Jen

[Diane783]

Thank you!  
Maybe you pointed out what I am doing wrong.  I am so worried about getting low blood sugar that I eat right before exercising- not the hour before.  Could that be hurting me?

[Niffer991]

The key for you, from what I know, is to always have the most ideal pre-exercise food no less than 1 hr before exercising. optimal time to eat is 1-1 1/2 hours prior to exercise. Food should consume of carbohydrates and protein, mostly carbohydrates. Beacause of your blood sugar you may know best but I would say some low glycemic food that will stay in your system longer. Fruit is maybe not enough energy unless you conbine it with something else as well as it digests fairly quickly.

Also, start out slow and work your way up. Be gentle on yourself and understand this will take a little while to get back into it. Just improve very very gradually. It will take anywhere from 2 weeks to 8 weeks to notice drastic improvements. You are on the right track good for you!

Jen