Aerobic vs Anaerobic Physiology
Algorithms like Control-IQ and SmartGuard are reactive. They do not know you are running until your glucose drops.
- Aerobic (Running, Cycling): Rapidly burns glucose, dramatically increasing insulin sensitivity. Requires reducing basal insulin 60-90 minutes *before* starting.
- Anaerobic (Weightlifting, Sprints): Triggers adrenaline and cortisol release, causing the liver to dump glycogen. This often causes severe spikes, requiring a micro-bolus *before* lifting.
Algorithm Overrides (Exercise Mode)
| System | Exercise Target | Technical Action |
|---|---|---|
| Control-IQ | 140-160 mg/dL | Suspends basal earlier, stops auto-correction boluses. |
| Omnipod 5 | 150 mg/dL | Reduces micro-bolus aggressiveness. Must be started 1-2 hours prior. |
| DIY Loop | 150-160 mg/dL | Overrides target and optionally scales insulin sensitivity factor (ISF) up by 150-200%. |
The "Disconnect" Strategy
For contact sports or swimming, users often disconnect their pump entirely. However, zero basal insulin for >60 minutes rapidly risks DKA, even if blood sugar is normal. You must replace the missed basal upon reconnecting using our calculators.
FAQ
- Why do I crash hours after exercise?
- This is the biphasic effect (late-onset hypoglycemia). Muscles rebuild glycogen stores up to 24 hours later, sapping glucose from the blood. You may need a 20% basal reduction overnight.
- Should I eat before running?
- Often yes, but without a bolus. Uncovered carbs act as a buffer against the rapid drop caused by aerobic exercise.