Ketoacidosis and exercise

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a chemical imbalance that occurs when not enough insulin is in the body to allow glucose (sugar) to enter the muscle cells to be used for energy. When the body lacks insulin and cannot use glucose for energy, it may start to burn fat.

Burning fat can create a buildup of acids in the urine and blood called ketones. Ketones are a sign that the blood glucose level may be very high. Ketones can lead to DKA, a dangerous condition that can result in serious illness and even death.

People with type 1 diabetes have the greatest risk for developing ketones, though some people with type 2 diabetes also may develop ketones.

Ketoacidosis may occur if:

• not enough insulin is in the body to let glucose into the cells
• the body does not have enough carbohydrate to use for energy
• a person is ill, has an infection or has surgery

If you have type 1 diabetes, and your blood glucose level is more than 250 mg/dL, check for ketones in your urine. Wait until your blood glucose level is in target and the ketones are gone before you exercise.

To make an appointment with International Diabetes Center, call 952-993-3393 or toll-free at 888-825-6315.