Exercise
Exercise is important for people with diabetes for lots of reasons:
- Helps control weight
- Helps insulin work better
- Helps control blood sugar
- Helps control blood fats e.g. cholesterol
- It’s good for the heart
- It tones muscle
- It helps people relax
- It helps people feel good
Useful tips for starting exercise:
- Exercise is a personal thing which needs to be tailored to the individuals needs
- People with diabetes needs to discuss an exercise programme with their doctor or diabetes team
- Exercise should be regular. Try to include some activity in everyday life
- Just increasing usual activity can be helpful e.g. walking up stairs instead of lift, or parking the car a few blocks away
- Check blood sugar before and after exercise, and during if exercising intensively or for a long time
- People on insulin may need to adjust their insulin before exercise
- It may be wise to take a snack
- Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes
- Warm muscles slowly before exercise by stretching first
- Exercise should be enjoyable