Managing Diabetes While Bodybuilding

[diabeticBodybuilder]

Hey everyone!
Few questions to the community:

1. Carb Intake Pre/Post Workout: What’s the best strategy for carb intake pre- and post-workout to maintain stable blood sugar without going too high or low? I’ve tried experimenting with different carb sources, but I’m not quite hitting the sweet spot.
2. Supplements for Diabetics: Are there any supplements (e.g., creatine, BCAAs, etc.) that you've found helpful for muscle growth while also being mindful of blood sugar levels?

I’m hoping to connect with others who are also managing diabetes while lifting and get some advice on how to better manage my blood sugar while maximizing my muscle growth.

 

[flexnFit]

Had a similar issue for a while! What worked for me is consuming a smaller amount of carbs pre-workout, like 20g of simple carbs (think fruit or a sports drink), and then a balanced meal 1-2 hours after. The key is to not overdo it with carbs pre-workout, since your body will use the glucose quickly, and you don’t want a sugar crash afterward. For post-workout, I prefer slower-digesting carbs like quinoa or brown rice, which help keep blood sugar steady and replenish glycogen stores.
Make sure to monitor how your insulin needs fluctuate with your carb intake and workout intensity too. If you're doing intense training, you may need a little more insulin post-workout to prevent a blood sugar spike. It’s all about finding that balance!

 

[AussieLifter]

I don’t have diabetes, but I’ve worked with a few athletes who do, and I’d say creatine is always a solid choice. It helps with strength and muscle mass without affecting blood sugar too much. BCAAs can also be a good option for muscle preservation and recovery, especially if you're in a calorie deficit. Just make sure to stick to clean, sugar-free versions.