When you have diabetes, your body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use it efficiently. This leads to poor blood sugar control, which carries a host of complications. Managing this condition largely involves healthy lifestyle choices, including proper diet and exercise. Exercise alone, however, generally cannot bring diabetes under control.
Benefits of Exercise
Exercise benefits diabetics in several ways, notes the National Diabetics Information Clearinghouse, or NDIC. It has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and help your body use insulin more efficiently. It also controls blood pressure and lowers cholesterol, both of which are important if you have diabetes, as you have an increased risk of these sorts of problems. In addition, it promotes healthier weight, another factor for better blood sugar levels.
Amount of Exercise
To benefit from exercise, you need to engage in it regularly. MayoClinic.com suggests at least 2 1/2 hours a week of moderately intense exercise. Examples include fast walking, swimming or riding a bicycle. If you've been sedentary up until now, you'll need to ease into exercise. Talk to your doctor for guidance on designing a safe and effective exercise regimen.
Checking Blood Sugar Level
If you take insulin or medications that lower your glucose levels, you need to check your blood sugar to determine whether exercise is appropriate at a given time. MayoClinic.com recommends checking levels 30 minutes before you plan to work out and again right before. A reading between 100 and 250 mg/dL represents a safe range for exercise.
Diabetic Complications
While you can probably engage in most forms of activity appropriate for your fitness level, certain diabetes complications can impose some limits. For example, if you have diabetic retinopathy, lifting weights can increase pressure in your eyes. If you suffer nerve damage in your feet or frequently get sores, running or jogging could pose problems. If you are unsure about the appropriateness of a particular activity, check with your doctor.
Taking Care of Your Feet
The NDIC stresses the importance of taking care of your feet during exercise. You have an increased risk of diabetic foot wounds, which can cause serious complications like infection. Wear comfortable, cotton socks and properly fitting shoes appropriate for the activity. Check your feet before and after exercise for the presence of redness, sores or bumps, and see your doctor if you develop any problems.
