As Alexander Zverev wins US Open 2026 while managing Type 1 Diabetes, expert suggests how you can chase your passion with the diagnosis

By his own estimate when Germanyrsquos Alexander Zverev walked out to play and eventually win the US Open Final 2026 his chances were slim ldquoI know that today 999 per cent of the people wanted Ben Shelton of the USA to win so Irsquom very sorryrdquo he quipped after the win But those who have been following Zverevrsquos journey over the years will know that the odds have never quite been in his favourContinous Glucose Monitors help individuals track how a new lifestyle affects their insulin needs REPRESENTATION PICSISTOCKThe athlete was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes T1D at the age of four and has been managing it alongside a professional career Dr Rahul Baxi consultant diabetologist Bombay Hospital and Medical Research Centre points out that there was more to Zverevrsquos insulin breaks during the match than met the eye ldquoType 1 Diabetes leaves you no option but to closely monitor glucose levels and take regular insulin shots wherever you are If ignored it can turn fatal in a matter of daysrdquo he sharesSweet spotNatural protein sources like chicken eggs and paneer can be ideal for beginnersFor those inspired by Zverev to pick up a sport or a workout routine Dr Baxi suggests a calculated transition ldquoWearing a Continuous Glucose Monitor patch is vital in monitoring changes in your glucose levels when you take up a sport walk or jogrdquo he suggests A major change to expect he adds is the risk of hypoglycemia low blood sugar The body uses more glucose than usual during and after aerobic exercises depleting blood glucoseZverev was allowed to use a glucose monitor on his smartphone and administer insulin to himself during point breaks at the US OpenSymptoms include gtgt Fatigue gtgt Dizziness gtgt Lower concentration gtgt Sudden sugar cravingsWhile amateur athletes might be tempted to underdose on insulin to avoid these performancehindering symptoms Dr Baxi suggests strongly against it Intense strength training exercises can also cause Hyperglycemia high blood sugar which can pose serious health risksDr Rahul Baxi consultant diabetologist Bombay HospitalSymptoms include gtgt Increased thirst gtgt Frequent urination gtgt Blurred visionSigns of either condition are a red flag for the individual to stop and take a break What about the beginnerrsquos favourite mdash Whey protein While quality supplements in themselves pose no added risks the diabetologist suggests starting with natural foods like eggs fish chicken and paneer before proceeding to highconcentrate protein A dieticianrsquos advice is vital to tweak your diet to your needs before you take up a sport he reminds usMaster your mindDr Baxi narrates an anecdote from his consulting room involving a young boy from Lucknow ldquoThe moment the mother learnt that the condition was lifelong she burst into tears sitting right beside him It is important to consider that the patient is already stressed by the diagnosis A strong support in friends and family goes a long wayrdquo he sharesWhile technological advancements continue to aid the management of the condition the diabetologist urges readers to be wary of unqualified content creators peddling unscientific information and quickfixes As of today there is no cure for Type 1 diabetes ldquoThat doesnrsquot mean you canrsquot live a productive life The condition is not a handicap With the right tools and support we could very well see another Zverev among us soonrdquo he signs offlsquoDiscipline over perfectionrsquoI was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes two years ago Rather than letting it define me fitness became my anchor The biggest misconception is that diabetes is caused by a bad lifestyle or that a T1D diagnosis means avoiding highintensity training I balance a demanding corporate 9to5 career alongside strength training Viewing diabetes management like data tracking helped me take the emotion out of bad readings A structured workout proper recovery and treating every day as a learning curve kept my headspace groundedJehaan Patel sales professional 24Be preparedFinding this sweet spot can be a timeconsuming process and requires willpower Dr Baxi admits A few handy measures can make the journey smoothergtgt Note down how your glucose levels sway during and after physical activity Ideally balance cardio with strength traininggtgt Beyond carbohydrates also track your protein and fat intake which affect glucose levelsgtgt Always carry fastacting glucose and insulin pen on your commute at work and at playgtgt Do not hesitate to inform those around you if you feel hypoglycemic