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Exercise And Diabetes

Though dealing with Diabetes can be challenging, it does not mean that you cannot lead a healthy, active life. If anything, focusing on leading a healthy, active life should become even more important. Exercise helps you lose weight, lowers your blood sugar and best of all, reduces your risk for developing heart disease; a problem that is all too common for diabetics.

What Kind of Exercise Should I Do & How Much Exercise Do I Need To Do?
The amount of exercise you can do will depend on any other existing health problems you may have. Take your time when you are first getting started and gradually add a bit more time and intensity as you go along. It is best to talk to your doctor and see what he or she recommends before you make any changes to your current exercise regimen.

Overall, the best form of exercise for diabetics is any kind of aerobic exercise, which makes your heart work harder and causes you to breathe more deeply. Some of the best and most popular types of aerobic exercise include:

Walking
Jogging
Cycling
Aerobic dance

If you have nerve issues with your legs your doctor may advise another form of exercise that puts less stress on your feet. If this is the case, some of the exercises that would be good for you would include:

Swimming
Rowing
Chair Exercises

Note: Do not underestimate the importance of warming up before you start and allowing yourself to cool down when you are done exercising- this helps to prevent cramping. To warm up try something low intensity, like a short 5-10 minute walk and then doing a few stretches for about the same time. These same steps will work just as well for your cooling down period.

What are the Risks Involved in Exercise and Diabetes?
Exercise can affect your insulin sensitivity and may even make your blood sugar too low. It is always best to check your sugar before and after exercise to gauge where you stand. Give your doctor feedback on these figures; he will be able to tell you what the correct levels should be.

If your blood sugar levels are too high or too low before you plan to exercise you should wait until it gets to an optimum level before starting. Also keep track of how hot or cold the weather is; temperature can affect how you absorb insulin. Always be aware of your body when exercising, hypoglycemia sets in gradually.

Watch for these warning signs:

Change in Heartbeat
Feelings of Anxiety
Hunger Pangs
Shaky or Woozy Feeling

If these symptoms occur do as your doctor advises when dealing with hypoglycemia. This may mean always keeping snacks such as juice or candy handy.

Other Things to be Aware of:

Wear Proper Footwear
Most people who suffer from diabetes have nerve issues with their feet and legs. To avoid exacerbating the problem it is best to wear shoes that fit snugly yet allow for some wiggle room when you exercise. Ill-fitting shoes can cause sores or blisters that can lead to infection.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
While this is important for anyone who works out, it is of special importance for diabetics. When you are working out your body expends fluids trying to keep you cool. Waiting until you feel thirsty could cause dehydration which in turn risks affecting your blood sugar level. Staying hydrated throughout your exercise by drinking plenty of fluids is of utmost importance.

If you are diabetic, working out a fitness program that works for you can be complex as there are several factors that need to be taken into consideration. However, with your doctor’s help you can work out a program that can do wonders for your health and overall sense of well-being.