Diet and exercise are both essential components of any healthy lifestyle, but it is especially true when you have diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, 23.6 million Americans have diabetes. Exercise in particular can improve glucose tolerance and overall health. Although exercise is safe and highly recommended, you should check with your doctor about any precautions you may need to take before beginning an exercise program.
Diabetes
Diabetes comes in two forms, type 1 and type 2. Type 1 is genetic and autoimmune; it cannot be prevented and usually appears in childhood. Type 2 diabetes used to be called "adult-onset" diabetes, but now strikes children as well. Type 1 diabetes must be managed by insulin. Type 2 diabetes is often caused by lifestyle factors, such as inactivity and obesity. Although medications and eventually insulin may be required, type 2 diabetes is often manageable with diet and exercise alone.
Types of Exercise
It is important to find exercise that you enjoy and will be motivated to do on a regular basis. Low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming and aerobics, may be good choices. In addition, the American Diabetes Association states that diabetics may have other health concerns, such as heart disease or arthritis, to take into consideration when an planning exercise routine. Check with your doctor about the best kind of exercise for you.
Benefits
Exercise has many benefits for diabetics. Exercise can improve your glucose tolerance, which may lead to requiring less medication or insulin. Exercise can also lead to weight loss, which further improves glucose function. Regular exercise improves your immune function, so you may get sick less often. Exercise also improves your overall physical fitness, which strengthens your heart and increases lung capacity, reducing your risk of heart disease.
Blood Sugar
Be alert to possible blood sugar changes while exercising. Blood sugar fluctuations can happen while exercising, especially if you become dehydrated. Watch for signs of sudden hypoglycemia, such as shakiness, excessive sweating, dizziness, feeling anxious or feeling your heart pounding. Temperature extremes can also cause changes in blood sugar, so use caution in cold or hot temperatures. Always keep a quick source of glucose nearby while exercising.
Warnings
The benefits of exercise far outweigh the risks, but diabetics must take some extra precautions. Examine the condition of your feet prior to exercise and wear good shoes; diabetic neuropathy is a condition in which you may not be able to feel your feet, placing them at further risk. Drink more fluids before and after exercise to prevent dehydration.
