Managing BG on through hikes

[Mander]

Sorry, long post! I have a medtronic 780g and G4 sensors. I will be doing a 5 day trek through the Iceland Highlands (Laugavegur & Fimmvörðuháls) staying in the huts. I currently exercise 1-2 hrs most days using temp target in the morning before I've eaten and this works really well. A one day hike wouldn't worry me but I've no experience of through hiking and will be carrying my food and clothes, so the effect of carrying a bag, wind, and terrain variables will obviously have a huge impact on blood sugar levels more than the actual distances I think (the daily distances are variable but not vast, probably average around 6 hrs walking). My DSN has been really thorough and we've discussed adjusting various pump settings and carb intake strategies but I know I'll have to work it out as I go along. She also pointed out at the end of the trek the pump algorithm will be working on the previous 7 days so I need to be on the ball managing everything afterwards. I will have glucogen pens, and plan on taking a sensor libre as well as pens and spare consumables for the pump. I have time to practice hike with my loaded back pack, and I can study the route map for the harder parts to really carb up. I have read some T1 hikers blogs which have been really helpful. I'm fairly fit and have been weight training on top of my usual exercise. I do feel prepared and think I've thought of everything but I do feel more nervous than excited and I wish it was the other way around! I'll be 60 next year and this is a holiday that I'll probably never repeat. I think theres a bit of hype about the trail because of its remoteness and obviously (hopefully not) extreme icelandic weather and I've let this worry me too much as I do believe it's well within my ability. I'll be with 2 other people who are experienced hikers. Food that I'm carrying will add to back pack weight so really thinking I should shell out for the (expensive) dehydrated meals if anyone has an opinion about this, but any top tips in general or even just reassurance would be great! TIA

 

[EllieM]

I'm not a medtronic user (tandem here) so can't give targeted advice but I just want to say that it sounds like you are very well prepared and should have a wonderful time. Worst case scenario I suppose medtronic lets you suspend insulin?

My only suggestion would be to take plenty of glucose equivalents.

Good luck and please do report back when you've been on the trip.

Edited to add, and welcome to the DCUK forums

 

[Mander]

Yes thank you, half my bag will be glucose, glucose and more glucose! Another hiker said pack what you think you need, and then triple it!