OBJECTIVE:

To determine basal blood glucose levels before and after consumption of a nutritional beverage in athletes from the High-Performance Center of the Autonomous Municipal Government of La Paz during the year 2019.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

In this quasi-experimental before-and-after study, changes in blood glucose levels were analyzed in 20 athletes following a 30-minute exercise protocol, followed by the intake of a nutritional beverage. Subsequently, blood glucose levels were measured at three points of time: at rest, immediately post-exercise, and one hour after the intervention. The study aimed to explore the influence of the nutritional beverage on glycemic regulation and its potential effects.

RESULTS:

Analysis of baseline blood glucose levels revealed a balanced distribution between hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia in 50% of the athletes. Besides, during exercise and before beverage intake, fluctuations in glucose levels were observed, with 5% persisting with hyperglycemia and 25% with hypoglycemia. One hour after physical activity and beverage intake, a significant improvement in glucose levels was recorded in 80% achieving normoglycemia, and 4% of athletes presenting hypoglycemia.

CONCLUSIONS:

After consuming the nutritional beverage and nutrient absorption time, 80% of participants exhibited normoglycemia. The beverage provided 218.1 Kcal, 13.52 g of protein, 1.56 g of fat, 38 g of carbohydrates, and 0.73 g of crude fiber per 270 mL. However, further sample expansion is needed to confirm this effect.