High Intensity Interval Training reduces hypoglycemic events compared with continuous aerobic training in individuals with type 1 diabetes: HIIT and hypoglycemia in type 1 diabetes.

ABSTRACT

AIMS: to investigate if a High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) protocol improves glycemic control and fitness capacity, compared to traditional moderate Intensity Continuous Training (MICT) exercise. METHODS: 30 sedentary individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and 26 healthy controls were assigned to a 3-week HIIT or MICT protocol. Blood glucose levels by continuous glucose monitoring system and fitness status were compared before and after the study period. RESULTS: During workouts, blood glucose levels remained stable in HIIT exercise (+3.2 ± 16.2 mg/dl (p = 0.43)), while decreased in MICT (-27.1 ± 17.5 mg/dl (p < 0.0001)) exercise. In addition, out of the 9 training sessions, HIIT volunteers needed to take carbohydrate supplements to avoid hypoglycemia in 0.56 ± 0.9 sessions, compared to 1.83 ± 0.5 sessions (p < 0.04) in MICT individuals. In the analysis of blood glucose levels between rest and training days (24h-period), training significantly reduced mean glycemic levels in both groups, but the MICT exercise results in an increase in the frequency of hypoglycemic episodes. The response to exercise seems to be attenuated in individuals with T1D, especially in HIIT group. CONCLUSION: HIIT training results in a greater glycemic stability, with reduction of hypoglycemic episodes.