Our body needs glucose, a type of sugar. This is vital for bodily processes such as the production of muscles and other important tissues. The cells feed on glucose for energy to be able to perform this function. But like what you know already, an excess of anything is bad. It can lead to imbalance and serious problems later on.
The same principle appliesin the amount of glucose in our body. When it’s not effectively metabolized, it can build up in your bloodstream.Too much of it can cause serious health problems. Diabetes, no matter what type, would surely be the first thing that comes to mind.You also know for sure that it is linked to other serious complications such as cardiovascular diseases. Thus, it is important to manage blood sugar levels.
Some of its known symptoms are increased thirst, extreme food cravings especially sugary foods, frequent urination, fatigue, irritability, slow-healing wounds and blurred vision among many others. In prediabetes and type 2 diabetes though, these symptoms may not show up immediately. Read more about this health concern here.
There are several ways to avoid rising blood sugar levels including eating healthy foods, keeping one’s weight healthy and exercising regularly. Diabetes is strongly linked to sedentary lifestyle. This is why it is important to jumpstart a more active lifestyle while you’re still in good health. But when you’ve already acquired diabetes, does it mean you can’t do something to improve your health anymore?
No, in fact,patients are encouraged to exercise regularly to manage their blood sugar levels. What are some tips they should bear in mind?
Consult Your Doctor First Before Starting a New Diet and Fitness Regimen
Unlike healthy individuals, you can’t just begin a new diet and exercise routine without doing enough research and consulting your doctor for advice. Your diet should be carefully planned with lots of calories and carbs counting done right. When in doubt, it is even useful to have a board-certified dietitian plan your meals carefully.
Along with proper diet, when exercise is done right,it will be very helpful in managing your condition. The keywords here are “done right”. And how does one know if he’s doing the right exercise routine? He needs to do it under his physician’s advice and supervision.
Get the Right Fitness Gear
That would include comfortable, cottony socks and a good pair of running shoes that comfortably fits. You can also get protective gears for the areas of your body vulnerable to scratches, cuts, wounds and sores. Diabetic patients need to avoid getting any of that since it could be difficult for wounds to heal completely as early as possible with this health issue.
Part of your fitness essentials should be your go-to snacks when your blood sugar suddenly drops too low. Calorie-rich snacksand beverages as well as those rich in carbs should be always stashed in your bag. Otherwise, you might risk yourself of experiencing hypoglycemia.
Keep a tag along with you indicating your health problem and always bring other information such as contact numbers of your doctor and family members in case of emergency.
Check Your Blood Glucose Level Before, During and After Exercise if Possible
There are two things that could happen when you exercise: It could either be hypoglycemia or increased blood sugar levels. It is important to check your condition before, during and after exercise. Don’t push through with workout when your glucose level is too high or too low.
People with type 1 diabetes are also advised not to exercise late in the day as they may be at risk of experiencing hypoglycemia overnight.
Keep Yourself Hydrated
Keeping yourself hydrated when doing your workout is a constant rule for everyone. But it’s even more important when you’re diabetic. Dehydration is an enemy to your glucose levels and may even cause stress to your heart. Never exercise when you feel thirsty. As a constant rule: Bear in mind to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Load up your bag with enough liters of fluid.
Start Slow and Gradually Increase the Frequency and Intensity
If you haven’t exercised for a while, don’t assume that you can up your workout right away from where you’ve left off. Low impact exercises are the best way to start. These include 5 to 10-minute walks or biking. Dancing is a fun option as well. Gradually increase the frequency and intensity to 30 minutes per day, five days a week.
Later, you can do a thorough search on the best fitness information to try other workout routines.
Listen to Your Body
When you’re not feeling well during exercise, it’s best to take a pause or even stop. Pay attention to what your body is trying to communicate. Pay attention to symptoms such as pain, nausea, disorientation and shortness of breath. Stop your workout immediately if you notice any of these.
Stay Active
Your fitness routine wouldn’t pay off if you sit all day long. It is important to stay active even when not exercising. For example, why not take a walk after eating lunch or dinner? Take your dog outside or go to a nearby park. Tend your garden. Do household chores. Stand and do some stretches every once-in-a-while at work. Instead of taking escalators and elevators, use the stairs. There are too many ways to live an active lifestyle. You just have to be creative sometimes!
Prediabetes and diabetes can be manageable as long as you’re ready to make the necessary changes. Also, before you acquire this condition, live healthy now to avoid it altogether.
