Hot tubs and diabetics?

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Permalink Reply by Phil on September 5, 2009 at 8:34pm

Because the heat and pulsing water cause the blood circulation to increase along with heart rate. This causes or can cause lowering of blood sugar which could be dangerous in a hot tub. Potential for trouble. I would tend to just be prepared and to have a sugar full pop like Pepsi or Coke or an apple juice right by your side at the edge of the hot tub. If anyone tells me not to that means I have to try it. Beware of limitations put on by others but at the same time be safe and sane. Everything in moderation - even hot tubs ;).

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Permalink Reply by Teena on September 5, 2009 at 8:48pm

New info never cease to amaze me, LOL. Ive always loved hot tubs and jacuzzis. I never knew it affects blood sugar level. I guess this is also true for saunas? Thanks for the info Phil :) Maybe I can research more on this.

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Permalink Reply by Sarah Davis on September 6, 2009 at 7:11am

I had no idea. My boyfriend has been in my hot tub with me on multiple occasions and never had that problem, however, he eats all the time, so getting out frequently for our "second dinner" as he calls it was totally common. Thanks for the new info, I will pass that on

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Permalink Reply by Leanna on September 6, 2009 at 8:20am

Thanks Phil :) Thats what I say too, if you know there's a chance of it making you go low just be prepared :)

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Permalink Reply by Dave   _ on September 6, 2009 at 9:54am

yes, it's true

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Permalink Reply by Leanna on September 6, 2009 at 10:17am

True that diabetics shouldn't go in them or true that you just need to be prepared?

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Permalink Reply by Dave   _ on September 6, 2009 at 11:41am

It's better not to go in them, for a variety of reasons that have been well documented by the medical establishment. Personally, I can't stand being in hot water, but I don't say it's not a good idea, simply because I don't like them--it's really not prudent for diabetics to be using hot tubs, any more than they should be running around barefooted. There's plenty of info available online about this issue.

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Permalink Reply by Zoe on September 6, 2009 at 11:49am

If I couldn't go barefoot and couldn't go into hot tubs, my life wouldn't be worth living..lol. To say diabetics "shouldn't (ever) be doing this or that" seems to be mandating what is right for everyone. Just like our diets vary greatly, I think our other choices run the gamut.

My opinion is the same as a few people said, just be aware and test. (or examine your feet). I think diabetes is like life, we all measure the risk of certain behaviors, take precautions and then live our lives how we are comfortable. Some people (especially women my age and older) barely leave their homes because they are scared of crime. Some people wander around at 2AM drunk and acting like fools in the streets, saying "hey, come rob me". We all find a place (hopefully in between those two extremes) where we are comfortable with both our quality of life and degree of risk.

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Permalink Reply by Leanna on September 6, 2009 at 11:59am

Thanks!!! I love hearing from people like you that I can afree with!!!

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Permalink Reply by Dave   _ on September 6, 2009 at 1:01pm

Did I say "shouldn't ever"??? NO--I said it's "better not to go in them". As a "general" rule, for diabetics. Some diabetics can do ok in a hot tub for a limited time, and others just shouldn't go in them hardly at all, due to circulatory issues and bg fluctuations.

If you think I'm incorrect, I suggest you do some Googling. I'm not going to continue to argue the obvious.

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Permalink Reply by Amanda on September 7, 2009 at 10:39am

I still use hot tubs AND go barefoot. BUT I also take precautions. My meter is always nearby, as well as glucose tablets and a friend. I wash and inspect my feet every day. I pay close attention to any cuts and treat them right away. I haven't worn "real" shoes (do flip flops count?) since summer started. No issues.
I really don't like to be limited by my disease. I know that the hot tub and/ or suana does not effect my BG much. I know this because I've tried them both. For me, the sauna is really beneficial to my health in alot of ways. And that, for me, outweighs the risk involved. Just limit the amount of time you spend using them Don't sit in there for hours.
And know that the way your body reacts to things can change over time, so never let your guard up. Don't drink alcohol while using them. Don't use them after a large bolus. Take the necessary precautions, maybe warn the people around you of what could happen and then try it. Test often and you should be fine.

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Permalink Reply by Leanna on September 7, 2009 at 11:16am

Thanks Amanda! I really agree with you :) Being careful and being with people wouldn't be a prob as my family would be there and they make sure I'm ok if we're doing something unsaul.

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