Certified Diabetes Educator Practice Exam

Increasing carbohydrate intake during unplanned exercise is crucial for preventing hypoglycemia, particularly for individuals with diabetes managing their blood glucose levels. During physical activity, the body utilizes glucose for energy. If a person has already taken insulin or other glucose-lowering medications, engaging in exercise without adjusting carbohydrate intake can result in a significant drop in blood sugar levels, leading to hypoglycemia.

By increasing carbohydrate intake before or during unplanned exercise, individuals provide their bodies with additional glucose that supports energy needs and acts as a buffer against the insulin already in the system. This proactive approach helps maintain baseline glucose levels, reducing the risk of experiencing low blood sugar during or after the exercise session.

In contrast, increasing insulin dosage or decreasing carbohydrate intake would exacerbate the risk of hypoglycemia. Maintaining current dietary levels may not account for the increased energy expenditure during exercise, thereby risking unstable blood glucose levels. Hence, increasing carbohydrate intake is the most effective strategy for preventing hypoglycemia during unplanned physical activity.