Posted on December 22, 2007 in Diabetes FAQ
Exercise is good for a diabetic. It not only keeps the weight down, but also reduces the body’s requirement for insulin and medication. The body uses up glucose effectively. Blood sugar levels are controlled. Overall health improves. One can lead an active life. He or she can be as normal as ever, and enjoy the same activities that a non-diabetic enjoys. Consult a physician, and start exercising.
Scientists have claimed that exercise is beneficial for diabetes and this fact was recognized centuries ago by healers in ancient cultures of China and India. The leading American diabetes magazine, Diabetes Forecast , published by the American Diabetes Association, also emphasizes the importance of exercise for a diabetic.
One should avoid straining oneself too much while exercising. Certain guidelines are to be followed in order to avoid any further health complications. These guidelines act as safety tips for a diabetic and are very valuable. What are these?
Safety Tips for Exercise for a Diabetic
- A thorough medical examination is advisable before venturing on an exercise regimen. It is good to consult a doctor. Medication can be adjusted and exercises will be recommended according to health conditions.
- One should be open about one’s diabetic problem. In case of hypoglycaemia, a person can help you when the need arises
- One should wear a medical bracelet which indicates that your are a diabetic
- An exercise that suits you should be taken up and a schedule should be adhered to. Due to health side effects of diabetics, one should be careful about the exercises one chooses
- One should warm up and relax before and after a session. Do not perform the exercises in a hurried manner. No point in pushing yourself too far. Breathing should be normal. Heartbeat should be within normal limits
- One should check out on the exercise. See which one affects the sugar levels more. By checking out on an exercise, one can assess its effect on the blood sugar levels. Even after performing the exercise one should check out on the blood sugar levels. These checks will help you in selecting an exercise that is good for you
- Clothing should be appropriate, not too loose or too tight and according to the weather conditions. In summer light colored clothes and in winters one can wear silk or thin, fine wool. The materials absorb the sweat and prevent chafing
- It is good if someone is there so that the person can help you when the blood sugar levels come down
- Avoid exercise when blood sugar is low. One should keep an eye on one’s glucose levels
- Duration and timing of the exercise should be fixed. Same regimen should be followed. One should also know when not to exercise
- Keep snacks as exercise reduces blood sugar levels. Consult a physician.
- Checkout for ketones. If there are too many or moderate amounts of ketones, then one should avoid exercising. Ketones indicate that your insulin is very low. Excessive keystone create chemical imbalances
- Check feet for any sores or bruises daily or any warm areas. Also the right kind of shoes should be worn
- For exercise of longer duration, one should take more carbohydrate snacks
- In case of hypoglycemia, one should consult the doctor in order for the medication to be regulated
- Working with light weights helps. The upper part of the body can be strengthened. Consult the doctor
- Drink plenty of fluids, particularly water as you tend to lose fluids through sweat
- One should update one’s exercise plan regularly
- It is good to be active throughout the day. Being on the move keeps you fit
- One should avoid strenuous exercises as it affects your body’s sensitivity to insulin
- Avoid exercise when one is not well, like suffering from flu etc
Exercise will help a diabetic to cope up with his health problem better. It will also prevent the occurrence of other ailments, which are side-effects of diabetes.
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February 15th, 2008 at 3:35 pm
Does smoking effect a diabetic on insulin
October 27th, 2008 at 5:07 pm
You write very well.