Walking and running are both important components of diabetes care and management. The National Diabetes Information Clearing House recommends as little as 30 minutes a day of walking or running, to manage your weight and blood glucose. Thirty minutes of walking and running also prevents the onset of diabetes-related complications, such as hypertension and heart disease. Because walking and running affect the way your body uses sugar, it is possible for your blood sugar to drop below normal. MayoClinic.com recommends you take several readings after 30 minutes of walking or running.
Step 1
Swab your index finger with alcohol and prick your finger with the lancet. Do this immediately after you finish exercising
Step 2
Apply one drop of blood to the glucose strip and put the strip in the monitor per the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 3
Read the monitor for your blood glucose number. If the number is below 70 mg/dl drink 4 oz. of fruit juice or take up to five glucose tablets.
Step 4
Wait 15 minutes and take another reading. If your blood sugar is still low, drink another four ounces of juice and wait another 15 minutes.
Step 5
Continue checking your blood sugar at 15-minute intervals for up to one hour, or until your levels return to between 100 and 250 mg/dl.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult your physician before starting an exercise program. Take your blood sugar reading before exercising. If your levels are below 100 mg/dl or above 250 mg/dl, avoid exercising until your readings are normal. Pay close attention to how you feel during your exercise session. Carry your monitor, test strips and glucose tablets with you in case you need to take a reading or increase your blood sugar levels. Stop exercising immediately if you feel dizzy or confused.
Things You'll Need
- Alcohol swabs
- Lancets
- Glucose strips
- Glucose monitor
- Juice or glucose tabs (optional)
