In 2007, nearly 24 million Americans suffered from diabetes, according to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. Type 2 diabetes develops when cells in your body become resistant to insulin and your pancreas eventually stops producing it, which leads to high blood glucose levels. The American College of Sports Medicine advises that physical activity or exercise may be therapeutic for diabetics.
High-intensity Activities
Diabetes causes several complications, including heart disease and nephropathy or kidney disease. In a joint position statement, the ACSM and American Diabetic Association or ADA indicate that low-to-moderate intensity exercise may be beneficial for people with diabetes. However, they point out that people with heart or kidney disease usually have lower stamina for exercise, so high-intensity activities should be avoided. If you've developed diabetic kidney disease, stick to activities such as walking and swimming instead of running or playing basketball.
Weight-bearing Activities
Another complication of type 2 diabetes is peripheral neuropathy, which causes you to lose sensation in your feet. Without the ability to feel, your risk of injury increases. Repetitive weight-bearing activities can cause people peripheral neuropathy to develop ulcers, fractures or other injuries, states the ADA and ACSM. In some cases, proper footwear and technique may help to prevent injury. However, to stay on the safe side, choose activities that don't require a lot of standing. Or, get involved in activities where you can sit for a period of time during the activity, such as bowling.
Activities in Hot or Cold Environments
One form of peripheral neuropathy is autonomic neuropathy. In this condition, the nerves controlling functions such as blood pressure regulation, heart rate, digestion and excretion, become damaged, explains the National Institutes of Health. Autonomic neuropathy increases your risk of other diabetes-related complications, such as cardiac problems and high or low blood pressure after exercise. Your body may also have trouble regulating its temperature. With this in mind, the ADA and ACSM recommend that you stay away from exercises in hot or cold environments. Also, make sure you drink enough to stay well-hydrated during your activities.
If you have type 2 diabetes, consult your doctor before starting new activities or an exercise program. Your doctor will do a few tests to check whether you have any diabetes complications that may limit your activities. Make sure you wear comfortable footwear and check your feet daily for signs of blisters or ulcers.
