Fighting diabetes? Now is a good time to start exercising. Whether you’re just getting started or are a professional athlete, exercise is great for just about everyone. It is especially important for those who want to manage their diabetes. Regular physical activity can lower your blood sugar, lower your blood pressure, and improve your general well-being each day.
In terms of diabetes management, exercising daily can help put you back in control of your life. It does not matter where you are physically or what exercises you choose to do. As long as you find some activity that gets you moving, then you are going to start feel better. This is because when you are active, your cells become more responsive to insulin, making it work more effectively. If you have never been to a gym or exercised a day in your life, you might want to start slow. Going for a light jog or walk can be a great place to start. Setting goals and finding someone to workout with can be motivating factors to get you manage your diabetes better.
With all this in mind, it is also good to know when is the best time you should be exercising. The best time to workout is between one to three hours after eating. This is time when your blood sugar is likely to be at its highest. It is important to test your blood sugar before exercising if you use insulin. If your level before exercise is below 100 mg/dL, be sure to eat something like a piece for fruit or small snack to help boost your sugar level. Then test again in around 30 minutes to see if your blood sugar is stable. It is also just a good rule of thumb to check your blood sugar level both before and after working out.
Running, swimming, lifting weights, however you want to exercise, getting started is the most important part. Regular exercise will help you start feeling like you’re back in control of your life. Please note, this should never be used as a substitute for direct medical advice. If you feel like exercising to help manage your diabetes, please consult your doctor.
For information on exercising and diabetes, click here.
Article written by William Graves.