How to Use Physical Activity for Diabetes Management

Most diabetics, and even the general public, are under the misconception that physical activity is only to lose weight and keep blood sugar under control without understanding that physical activity is the second most important factor in controlling Type 2 Diabetes and in Diabetes prevention. Physical activity also helps prevent cardiovascular disease, which is one of the major complications of Type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that regular activity lowers triglyceride levels and blood pressure. The key is preparation and exercising in a manner that will help you manage your diabetes without putting you at risk.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Glucose monitor and supplies.
• A small log for tracking blood sugar levels.
• Prescribed medications.
• Glucose tablets in case of hyperglycemia.
• Physcian approved exercise/physical activity

1. If you are diabetic, and regardless of whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes , you should first meet with your physician to find out what kind of exercise or physical activity you should be getting. Since your physician is familiar with your medical history related to the diabetes they can set you up on the right type of exercise program or suggest other types of physical activity.
2. If you are a Type 1 Diabetic, check your blood glucose levels before, midway through, and after exercising or getting involved in other types of physical activity like tennis, bowling, etc. For you, an intensive workout could possibly cause hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, especially if your blood sugar levels were high before you began your routine.
3. Rather than choosing not to exercise or get some other type of physical activity if you have proliferative retinophathy, you should choose a non strenuous exercise like walking, gardening, or swimming.
4. If you have the symptoms of prediabetes and are over weight or obese you should begin a regimen of physical activity or get at least thirty minutes of exercise daily as weight is a major risk factor for developing type 2 Diabetes.
5. You should also exercise regularly or get involved in some other type of physical activity if you are a Type 2 Diabetic because a workout program can lower your body mass and decrease insulin resistance.
6. Studies have shown that regular activity lowers triglyceride levels and blood pressure which in turn decreases your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, another complication of Type 2 diabetes.
7. You should eat a snack or a meal that includes protein and a starch one to two hours before exercising and If you are exercising for more than one hour bring an extra fifteen gram carbohydrate snack.

Tips & Warnings

• Before beginning any exercise routine have your physician check your Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, your blood pressure, your feet, your vision, and your nervous system.
• Ask you physician what kind of physical activity regimen you should be involved and the time you should spend on exercise.
• Keep a log of your blood glucose levels before and after each exercise session.
• Wear comfortable shoes with socks or support hose to protect your feet.
• Always carry a form of fast acting sugar during your exercise routine in case your blood glucose levels should drop too low.