Managing insulin pumps and supplies during sports can be challenging. What are the best strategies to effectively manage your insulin pump and carry enough supplies during physical activity, and do you have any tips to minimize disruptions and prevent high or low blood sugar?
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I’m also curious about how people carry their supplies during exercise.
We’ve been experimenting with different bag styles that are big enough to carry the supplies, but not so bulky they get in the way of the activity.
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I run into this same issue, Tama. I have a small fanny pack that I just swing over my shoulder that works well. It fits sort of snug, so doesn’t move around. It’s about big enough to hold a couple of glucose gels and a bar, and I think is long enough for insulin pens. When I’m riding (horses), I use a saddle bag on the saddle horn and it’s big enough for one or two low snacks. These won’t hold like Tandem or Dexcom supplies, but can definitely hold low snacks. Definitely a challenge!
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I also use a fanny pack! There are so many on the market ranging from $10-$30. My personal favorite is the lululemon fanny pack. It fits my phone, wallet, more than enough low snacks, a protein bar, and finger stick supplies in case I need them. I also like that you can adjust the strap on most fanny packs so I usually wear mine across my chest with the pack on my back so it’s not in my way.
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Great topic! For sports, I try to plan ahead I keep quick carbs, infusion set backups, and alcohol wipes in a small waist or arm pouch. I also set a temporary basal rate or disconnect for short bursts of activity. Staying hydrated and checking levels before, during and after helps prevent spikes or crashes. Everyone’s different, so trial and error really helps fine tune what works best.