Type 1 diabetes, previously called juvenile diabetes, is thought to be an autoimmune disease. With type 1 diabetes, the pancreas stops producing the hormone insulin, which regulates levels of the simple sugar glucose in the blood. Unlike type 2 diabetes, exercise might not help prevent the disease, but exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle for people with type 1 diabetes to control weight and blood sugar levels and reduce diabetes complications.
Blood Sugar Control
Regular exercise can help your body use the glucose in the blood, preventing levels from getting too high and keeping blood glucose levels stable. Stable blood glucose levels are important to reduce the risk of diabetes-associated complications, including affected vision, neuropathy, high blood pressure and heart disease. In order to prevent too much variation in blood glucose levels, try to exercise for about the same length of time at about the same intensity on a regular schedule.
Preventing Complications
Heart disease is a common complication in type 1 diabetics. Regular exercise can help to manage many risk factors for heart disease, including high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Aerobic exercises strengthen the heart and allow it to circulate blood through the body more efficiently. The American Council on Exercise recommends that type 1 diabetics schedule workouts that are between 20 and 60 minutes long, at least three to four days each week.
Weight Maintenance
Regular exercise is known to help maintain a healthy weight and can help you lose any excess weight. Avoiding obesity and being overweight is particularly important for type 1 diabetics, as it can help provide better blood sugar control and reduce the risk of complications. Regular exercise, coupled with a healthy diet, helps diabetics maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Tips for Safety
Before you embark on an exercise routine, check in with your doctor. Find out if there are any exercises you shouldn't do, or if there are any special safety precautions you need to take. Always check your blood sugar levels before, during and after exercise. Don't exercise if your blood sugar already is low, and try having a small carbohydrate snack. Have something sugary -- like some candy, soda or fruit juice -- on hand while you exercise in case your blood sugar drops during your workout. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and wear supportive shoes that fit properly to avoid foot problems.
