Diabetes is a disease in which high levels of blood glucose target the body's organs and cause long-term and sometimes life-threatening effects. With diabetes, the body fails to make enough insulin or does not do an efficient job of reducing blood sugar levels. Only your doctor can help guide you in the right direction to manage your diabetes effectively. However, regardless of your condition, exercise, especially on a treadmill, can be one step to managing your diabetes.
Significance
It is important to maintain your weight if you are a diabetic. If you take insulin or medication, your appetite may increase, making it easier to gain weight. Proper exercise will help keep your body in shape and make it easier for you to absorb insulin and have it work correctly. Due to its flexibility in incline and speed, a treadmill can be an invaluable tool in helping you get in shape regardless of your fitness level as it allows you to work out at your own pace.
Diabetes
Diabetes affects over 23.6 million adults and children combined in the United States. It is estimated that 57 million Americans are pre-diabetic and will likely develop diabetes in the near future, explains the American Diabetic Association. If you were diagnosed with diabetes as a child or are insulin-dependent, you have type 1 or juvenile diabetes. With type 1, the pancreas is unable to make insulin, so sugar begins to rapidly accumulate in your bloodstream. Insulin injections, along with other medications, are often prescribed. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or the insulin has trouble converting sugars into energy. Type 2 diabetes is the most common version and has many risk factors, including your age or your weight. Type 2 can be prevented, controlled and managed by taking a medication that regulates glucose, such as glucophage. Gestational diabetes may develop during pregnancy. Blood glucose levels rise rapidly, which can affect both your and your baby's health. Dietary changes and insulin injections may be required.
Exercise
It is important to exercise when you are diabetic or have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes. A treadmill allows you to perform several exercise options, including walking, jogging, running and strength training. Using your treadmill also helps you develop endurance while improving your overall balance and coordination. Exercising regularly strengthens your muscles and helps insulin work better at bringing your sugar levels down.
Prevention
One thing that most diabetics have to worry about is weight gain. Being overweight or obese can be dangerous if you are diabetic. It can complicate the disease and make it harder to manage. Using your treadmill daily will help prevent diseases and complications that arise from diabetes, such as heart disease, stroke, digestive problems, diabetic neuropathy and kidney function, explains MedlinePlus.
Warning
Diabetes should never be taken lightly. If you already have complications from the disease, such as leg or foot problems, eye trouble or nerve damage, you need to consult with your physician to ensure that it is safe for you to walk on a treadmill. Keep a close eye on your blood sugar levels before, during and after your workout to make sure that the exercise is benefiting your overall health.
