Exercise and Diabetes

WHAT IS DIABETES?
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by the inability or an deficiency of insulin to control blood sugar levels, most often resulting in hyperglycemia or a blood glucose levels higher than 120mg/dl or 7.0 mmol. Exercise has been researched and proven as a great way to prevent diabetes or as an aid in the management of diabetes.

BENEFITS OF EXERCISE FOR DIABETICS
*Improvement in stabilizing blood sugar levels
*Reduction in risk levels for other co-morbidities such as heart disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol
*By combining low-glycemic nutrition and moderate,consistent exercise program, reduced body fat is seen in many diabetics

CLICK HERE TO SEE HOW 1 DOCTOR HAS HELPED TO REVERSE TYPE 2 DIABETES IN MANY OF HIS PATIENTS!

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SAFETY CONCERNS
Exercise stress tests may be recommended before beginning an exercise program depending upon age, duration of the disease and the presence of other risk factors such as:
*high blood pressure
*high cholesterol
*obesity
*smoking or quit within last 6 months
*family history of heart disease
Please consult with your doctor if you are not currently active and have 1 or more of the risk factors listed above.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS WHEN EXERCISING
*Monitor blood sugar levels before and after exercise
*Have a fast acting sugar on hand in case of hypoglycemia
*Avoid exercising too late in the evening to avoid nocturnal hypoglycemia
*Consume adequate water before, during and after exercise

EXERCISE PRESCRIPTIONS FOR DIABETICS
Aerobic = 20-60 minutes, 4-7 days a week, at a moderate intensity
Strength = 2-3 times a week (alternating days),all major muscle groups, light resistance with high repetitions. For example: 2 sets of 15 repetitions with 1 minute rest time between sets
Flexibility = 2-3 sessions a week, all major muscle groups, holding each stretch for 20-30 seconds to improve range of motion