Although diabetes are found in people from all walks of life and weight, overweight people are significantly more at risk. Diabetes and exercise are complimentary - the more you exercise the less you will suffer from diabetes. Most importantly, exercise lowers your blood sugar level and reduce the need for insulin injections. It also protects you against heart attacks and strokes, strenghtens bones and muscles, improve how you feel and relieve stress.
Diabetes and Exercise To Cut Back On Medication
While the list of benefits of exercise is applicable to anyone, it becomes very important when looking at diabetes and exercise together. For instance, by lowering your blood sugar level through exercise you may bring it down far enough that you don't need any insulin medication at all. Or by lowering the risk of heart attacks and strokes you may not need medication for cholestrol or high blood pressure.
Walking
Walking is a great cardiovascular exercise. It’s always difficult to start, especially if movement is uncomfortable. However, once you start losing weight, muscle and joint pain will go away and exercising itself will become easier.
Walking as little as 30 minutes each day can have a massive positive effect. Walking for a few hours once or twice a week is not a very good idea, as you will receive less benefit from it but more pain!
Swimming
If walking is too difficult or painful, swimming is a wonderful alternative. It is a form of low impact exercise that is perfect for people who are not used to the exertion of walking or jogging. A half-hour in the pool, with some kicking or swimming, or even water aerobics, can be beneficial. You may find that starting in the shallow end with some minor aerobics will be so enjoyable that you want to do more. Indoor swimming pools are now available at some health clubs or physical therapy centers, and insurance may pay if it is for a diagnosed medical condition. It is worth investigating the possibility with your health insurance provider.
Increased Quality of Life
Exercise really increases your quality of life! You will feel healthier, fitter and sleep more peacefully. In terms of diabetes and exercise, it is probably one of the most important aspects of controlling your diabetes. So go on, get exercising!
