Diabetes mellitus and physical activity.

Fat and carbohydrate metabolism in diabetic patients during exercise is described and compared with the metabolism of healthy individuals. In well-regulated insulin-treated diabetics, fat and carbohydrate metabolism does not differ greatly from that of healthy individuals. It is therefore concluded that well-regulated diabetics can actively participate in all degrees of exercise, including highly competitive sports, when diet and insulin dosages are adequately adjusted. The effect of exercise on diabetes control is discussed, and it is concluded that there is not existing evidence that exercise delays or prevents the development of diabetic angiopathy.