Rider Food for Diabetics?

Flemmer, Linda (LFlemmer@CHKD.com)
Mon, 16 Dec 1996 12:16:47 -0500

I was recently diagnosed with adult onset diabetes which I'm managing
with oral agents, diet, and exercise. Of course, all of the information
I need to know is new to me. When I met with the dietitian, I asked for
advice on managing ride snacks, electrolytes, fluids ..... Her answer
was "Carry a package of nab crackers with you." I can just <picture>
that package of crackers after a 20 mile loop on a bouncy Arab! "Here,
let me lick the crumb from the package. Whoa, dammit - the crumbs are
blowing away......!"

Seriously, the dietitian doesn't have a clue what to tell me and has
never counseled a person who does a physically demanding sport. She has
me on a 1400 calorie diet that I suspect will be inadequate and
difficult to implement on ride day. Is there anyone out there with
non-insulin dependent diabetes (type II) who has found a way to eat
smart on a ride? What about drinks? All the sports drinks I see are
SWEET. Does the increased activity offset the food/drink I'd consume?
I usually have a great crew that will do whatever they can to support
my needs and those of the horse. We just need to know how to plan.

Linda Flemmer
Chesapeake, VA
Linda Flemmer