|
Living an active life can help lower your blood sugar level and keep it there, even days after you’re active. Plus, being active regularly can help you:
- Manage your weight.
- Improve cholesterol levels.
- Lower your blood pressure.
- Help your body respond to insulin.
First, see your doctor for a checkup. He or she can suggest activities for you. Do a mix of aerobics, strength training, and stretches. Try to be more active every day. Just 30 minutes a day of activity (even in three 10-minute bursts) can help lower your blood sugar and improve your body’s response to insulin.
These tips from the American Diabetes Association can help you get started:
- Walk instead of drive when you can.
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
- Work in the garden, rake leaves, or do some housecleaning every day.
- When you go to a shopping center, park at the far end of the parking lot and walk to the store.
These everyday chores can help you stay active:
- Clean, vacuum, or mop the floor.
- Garden and do yard work.
- Put groceries away.
- Wash and wax the car.
- Wash your windows.
There are lots of activities you can do around your home to burn calories. You don’t have to join a gym or run a marathon to see results. Choose something you enjoy and stay with it.
How much activity
Try to be active every day. If you can’t, aim for three to four times a week, 30 to 60 minutes each time. Make sure to warm up before and stretch out after each exercise.
Tips
- Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise.
- Stay motivated. Work out with a friend, make workout “dates” with yourself, and vary your workout, so you don’t get bored.
- Write down what you’re doing, so you can see your progress.
Take care of yourself
- Foot problems are common in people with diabetes. Make sure your shoes fit well and are right for your exercise. Wear athletic socks. These steps will help you avoid blisters or calluses that could lead to infection.
- Check your blood sugar before and after you exercise. Don’t work out if your level is too high or too low.
- Exercise with a friend who knows you have diabetes, or wear a medical ID bracelet, in case you have low blood sugar.
Also of Interest
|
