Although it isn’t easy to get into super shape if you have diabetes, it is entirely possible to be super fit and healthy while battling the disease. For optimum results, aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week. Try to fit in at least 20 minutes of physical activity each day. Choose activities that use all the major muscle groups and raise your heart rate. This helps the body to utilize insulin properly. Stretching regularly after physical activity is an excellent way to maintain flexibility and reduce soreness.
When exercising, remember to watch for any cuts or blisters. Blisters that swell up, oozing pus or are red should be discussed with a doctor. It’s also important to follow a diabetes management plan. Just as professional athletes follow a training and nutrition plan, people with diabetes can also follow a similar plan. A diabetes management plan will give you a roadmap to exercise success and help you manage your disease.
Changing your lifestyle can be hard, especially at the start. You might even need to restart several times. Even though diabetes is a chronic condition, it can be reversed or prevented by making small changes to your lifestyle. A well-balanced diet, adequate exercise and regular physical activity can help keep blood glucose levels under control and prevent long-term complications. The good news is that you don’t have to give up your favourite foods.
