Why it is Important for People with Diabetes to be Physically Active?

Physical activity can help you control your blood glucose, weight, and blood pressure, as well as raise your “good” cholesterol and lower your “bad” cholesterol. It can also help prevent heart and blood flow problems, reducing your risk of heart disease and nerve damage, which are often problems for people with diabetes.

How one can define type 2 diabetes is the inability of the cells to respond to insulin. This type of a condition is also called Insulin Resistance. Since the glucose is not well metabolized by the body, it starts building up in your body. This also results in high sugar level readings during a test. The best way to control these levels is through medication and physical activity. The doctors may also recommend insulin injections as you are insensitive to the body’s insulin is made. The insulin that you get through the injections is better able to help the muscle and fat cells to use the sugar in your blood when you exercise regularly.

Exercise is a must for Diabetics:

Exercise also burns calories, which along with a healthy diet can contribute to weight loss. Exercise and weight loss have been shown to decrease certain risk factors associated with diabetes, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Physical activity also improves your mood.

Consult with your healthcare provider about a safe exercise plan. He or she may check your heart and your feet to be sure you have no special problems. If you have high blood pressure, eye, or foot problems, you may need to avoid some kinds of exercise.

Recommended Exercise Regime:

• Begin with the exercises that you are comfortable with. Start slow and gradually increase your activity to 150 minutes per week.
• According to your schedule try and accommodate physical exercise. Also, you can exercise as and when you get the time.

For example – 30 minutes at one time five times a week. – 15 minutes at a time 10 times a week. – 10 minutes at a time several times a day.

• Opt for brisk walking. A simple way to exercise and lose the extra calories.
• Try making exercise your hobby. Opt for dancing, Zumba, jogging, etc.
• Try and work out with someone. Having company improves your exercise regime and keeps you motivated.
• Start with 10 minutes a day and build up over time.