Exercise is vital to your health, but physical activity becomes even more important if you have type 2 diabetes or are at risk. A primary aspect of diabetes is that the body becomes more insulin resistant, preventing sugar from being moved to the cells for consumption. Exercise lowers insulin resistance, and, as a result, it helps lower blood glucose levels. Exercising regularly will help your body adapt to this condition, so you’ll become more sensitive to insulin.
List the Activities That Interest You
If exercise feels like a chore, you’re not likely to stick with it for very long. Also, engaging in various activities will help you strengthen a broader range of muscle groups throughout your body. Yoga, jogging, bicycling, and swimming are a few ideas to consider. You should also hit the gym two to three days a week to get the resistance training your body needs.
Keep an Eye on Your Blood Sugar
While one reason you’re exercising is to keep your blood glucose low, you don’t want it to drop too low during the workout. For that reason, you may want to check it every 20 to 30 minutes when you’re engaged in moderate to high-intensity physical activity. You should also keep a piece of fruit or a fruit drink handy if you do experience a drastic drop in blood sugar.
Keep a Close Eye on Your Feet
Foot health is a significant concern for people with diabetes since skin ulcers and nerve damage are common conditions with diabetics. To protect against these conditions, wear suitable quality footwear, and be sure to wear the appropriate shoes for your activity. You should also clip your nails regularly and make sure your footwear provides a little extra room for your toes. If you notice a cut, bruise, or bump on your feet, consult your doctor as soon as possible. Even a minor sore can develop into a skin ulcer if it’s not treated correctly.
Getting enough exercise each day will also benefit cardiovascular health, muscle, and bone mass and help you maintain good emotional health. If diabetes is a concern, be sure to consult your doctor before beginning a new exercise regimen. Together with your physician, you can start an exercise routine that will be safer and help you enjoy the benefits that regular physical activity provides.