If a person is physically unfit, the blood sugar may drop more rapidly than if the person is physically fit. It is very useful to monitor the blood sugar to determine what the correct snack is for each child. Blood sugars may actually increase slightly during the first hour of exercise because the body releases the excitatory hormone, adrenaline. Blood sugars may then decline. The type of snack can be varied depending on the expected length of the activity.
More food is added, such as crackers or bread, if the activity is to last longer.
This might be a cheese or meat sandwich with a glass of juice. It is wise to check the blood sugar after the activity to help decide what to use for a snack the next time. Extra water may also be important, particularly during hot weather. A general rule is to drink eight ounces of fluids for every 30 minutes of vigorous activity. Liquids such as milk, Gatorade, and fruit juices help replace water, salts, and carbohydrates.