Exercises To Control Diabetes

Exercise is a vital part of the control of diabetes. All diabetic patients should aim to make exercise as a part of their daily routine. Exercise can help to improve the quality of life for diabetic patients. But there are some safeguards to consider before people start an exercise regime. It is wise to consult their health professional before they begin. This would be true for anyone, but it is especially so for someone who is suffering from acute diabetes.

There are two types of diabetes; Type-1 diabetes which usually manifests itself at an early age. This type is sometimes referred to as adolescent diabetes. In Type-1 diabetes, the body cannot produce enough of its own insulin. Type-2 diabetes manifests itself in later period of life. In Type-2 diabetes the body fails to produce sufficient amount of insulin or it becomes resistant to its own insulin. In both types of diabetes the body is unable to metabolize sugar properly. Blood sugar levels increase because the body cannot transport sugar to the cells where it is required. It becomes necessary to reduce blood sugar levels. This can be done by medication, by diet and by consistent exercise.

Exercise can, therefore, be a valuable part in diabetes management and this is true for both types of diabetes. Whether an individual has Type-1 or Type-2 diabetes they can benefit from regular physical exercise. Type-1 diabetics can benefit from exercise because it can assist in the maintenance of insulin sensitivity and increases the use of glucose by the muscle tissues. Exercise can also help to avoid excessive weight gain. Type-1 diabetes cannot be cured, but some of the health problems associated with this type of diabetes can be reduced by means of exercise.

Type-2 diabetics can also be benefited from exercise. Type-2 diabetes is preventable and exercise can help in its effective prevention. Even such a simple work out as a 30 minute walk every day can reduce the risk of developing Type-2 diabetes. To sum up, exercise can reduce blood sugar levels and help to control insulin sensitivity. This is important for diabetic patients because they are known to have circulatory problems. Diabetic patients often suffer from poor circulation in the legs and feet. Exercise helps to promote proper blood circulation. Regular exercise will also help to lower blood pressure and so reduce the risk of stroke or heart attack.

There are, however, certain risks associated with exercise for diabetic patients. Since exercise lowers blood sugar the patients must measure their blood sugar levels before and after exercise. The body will use greater amount of sugar during exercise and become more sensitive to insulin. Work out can potentially result in hypoglycemia. Checking blood sugar levels will help to avoid this danger. With this precaution the benefits of exercise will outweigh the possible threats.

A diabetic patient should also take care to carry candy or fruit juice with them during exercise in case their blood sugar falls too low. They should make sure to inform the guides at the gym or their exercise partners that they are diabetic. An exercise buddy is a good idea for anyone but doubly so for a diabetic patient. Exercising with a friend can help maintain the motivation and for a diabetic it can help avoid the dangers of the blood sugar falling too low.

• John Palsson
• 16/12/2008, 6:59 AM
• 0 Comments