I just joined a local gym and will be starting there next week. Up until now my only exercise has been walking the grocery store. I have my sugar under control (type 2 on oral meds) but am afraid that I may have a problem with it going low when at the gym.
Should I add a few carbs to the meal I eat before going to exercise?
Take some glucose sweets (i.e LUCOZADE) with you
A type one friend has a home gym, He tests his sugar several times when he does his exercises. He is on a pump, and is very prepared for such an event. I tested after my swim many times... until I would balance the information on the way I feel... and the numeric facts.... and frequently I have a protein portion such as a piece of cheese, or an boiled egg before I begin the drive home... to have my lunch.
I exercise every morning, when I get up I do 10 times up & down with each eyebrow!
I use a protein portion for after I finish my swimming (2.5 km) That may include an egg, or cheese or... nuts of any kind almonds and macadamia nuts are best.. These don't have carbs but they can help fairly quickly.
Firstly DO NOT anticipate a huge drop in blood sugar just because you work out. If you have a normal blood sugar of 7.0 when you go to the gym and you do a 45 minute cardio or a 45 minute strength training see how much of a drop you have. My bet says if you can get it to 5.0 you are doing great and it will balance out when you have a post workout snack or chocolate milk!