Diabetes is a serious, chronic illness that can affect every part of your life. Key lifestyle choices can help you alleviate your diabetic symptoms. Do aerobic exercise, which can help with the symptoms of both type 1 and 2 diabetes. Consider additional factors before embarking on an exercise program.
Medical Evaluation
Since exercise affects your blood sugar levels, it is critically important you consult your doctor before starting an exercise program. According to the American Diabetes Association, you should have a complete medical history and physical examination that focuses on the symptoms and signs of diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and nervous system. Only proceed with an exercise routine with the consent of your doctor.
Type 1 Diabetes
If you have type 1 diabetes and rely on insulin shots to manage your glucose levels, you need to be aware of the interaction between your injections and exercise. According to "Diabetes for Dummies," insulin shots override your body's normal insulin response to exercise, so you need to modify your medication in order to avoid hypoglycemia. You should monitor your blood glucose closely before and after exercise and consult with your physician to find the optimum pre-exercise dose of insulin.
Type 2 Diabetes
According to "Diabetes and Exercise," type 2 diabetes is especially responsive to aerobic exercise, and there is less risk of exercise-induced hypoglycemia than in type 1 diabetes. Among other things, exercise plays a significant role by supporting weight loss and regulating blood glucose levels. The book notes that aerobic exercise is "widely recognized as a cornerstone in the medical management for type 2 diabetes" and also that you can enjoy even more benefits by combining aerobic exercise with resistance training.
Optimal Exercise
You do not have to become an endurance athlete in order to enjoy the benefits of aerobic exercise. The book "Diabetes for Dummies" reports on a study of more than 70,000 women that showed walking 10 miles a week was as effective for preventing diabetes as working out for three hours in the gym. Walking has the additional benefit of being easier on joints and tendons, which may be a concern if you are very overweight. You should aim to walk at least 30 minutes, at least five times a week.
Member Comments