Macro partitioning
Carbohydrate intake of 3–12 g/kg/day, adjusted for exercise duration and intensity, is recommended for athletes with diabetes to optimize glycogen storage and performance.
As a diabetic athlete, you need carbohydrates to perform. Aim for 3 to 12 grams of carbohydrates per kilogram of your body weight each day. If you train for a long time or at high intensity, aim for the higher end of this range. This helps store glycogen in your muscles and liver, which is your main energy source during exercise. Monitor your blood sugar to see how your body responds to different amounts.
To estimate their daily carbohydrate needs, athletes are recommended to ingest 3–12 g of carbohydrates per kg of body weight; the precise amount will vary depending on the duration and intensity of their physical activity (Grade C).
Why this rating
The recommendation is based on Grade C evidence (expert consensus).
Source
Nutritional considerations for athletes with diabetes: optimizing performance and glycemic control
Liguang Xu et al. · Frontiers in Nutrition · 2026
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