| Physical activity (exercise) is one of four key
components -- along with nutrition, medication and blood glucose
monitoring -- of daily diabetes care. For people with diabetes,
being physically active is especially important because it boosts
fitness levels while reducing blood glucose and blood pressure levels.
It doesn't have to be a marathon to make a difference. You can
spend hours at the gym, but just as important are those hours of
gardening, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, and strolling
around the block after dinner, that help you keep your diabetes
in control. If you learn to make exercise a habit -- a fun habit
-- your body will enjoy an amazing number of benefits. Please make
sure you consult your doctor or diabetes educator before beginning
a new exercise program, especially if you are over 35 or have had
diabetes for 10 years or longer.
For people with diabetes, exercise:
- Helps your body use insulin more effectively
- Can lower blood glucose levels
- Strengthens heart and lungs
- Reduces body fat and increases muscle
- Assists with weight control
- Helps you cope with stress
- Improves your self-image
- Helps reduce risk factors for heart disease
- Lowers blood pressure
Exercise Program Reminders
Before beginning any exercise program, consult your doctor, especially
if you are over age 35 or have had diabetes for 10 years or longer.
Risks of Exercise
- Certain types of exercise may worsen eye, kidney, or nerve
problems. If you have any of these problems, get professional
advice about exercise.
- Blood pressure may rise higher during exercise in people with
diabetes than in those without diabetes.
- People with diabetes are at increased risk for heart problems.
Stop exercising and consult your doctor if you have any of the
following symptoms: chest pain, unusual fatigue, dizziness, visual
disturbances, or nausea.
- Know how to prevent hypoglycemia if
you take insulin or diabetes pills.
- Avoid exercise if your blood glucose is under 80 mg/dl (4.4
mmol/L) or over 300 mg/dl (16.7 mmol/L) or if it is over 240 mg/dl
(13.3 mmol/L) and ketones are present.
- Wear your diabetes ID during exercise.
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