Type I diabetes and physical exercise.

Metabolic effects of physical exercise in type I diabetes are reviewed. Physical training leads to an increased insulin sensitivity but does not seem to influence the metabolic control. However, the metabolic control is of importance for the exercise results. Patients in a good control do not differ from normal individuals concerning working capacity, recovery after hypoglycemia and hormonal balance. Furthermore, abnormalities in the blood glucose homeostasis during exercise in type I diabetes are discussed as well as potential beneficial effects of physical training in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.