Exercise offers so many surprising benefits for those who have diabetes – it not only lowers blood sugar levels, but also lowers stress levels and cheers you up, apart from all the other health benefits it comes with.
Exercise is important for everyone,especially for people with diabetes. Here are the 5 best workouts for you –
Walking – the most popular form of exercise you can do almost anywhere. Walking is highly recommended for people with diabetes. One of the easiest ways to lower blood sugar levels is to walk 150 minutes a week.
Yoga – is most beneficial for people with chronic conditions which include diabetes.It helps to improve blood glucose levels. It not only relieves stress but also improves nerve function that helps to increase the state of mental health and wellness. Yoga is a traditional form of workout that incorporates fluid movements that help build flexibility, balance, and strength.
Swimming – another best form of exercise for people with diabetes that does not put pressure on joints.It stretches muscles and relaxes mind and body at the same time. Swimming burns calories, reduces stress levels and improves cholesterol levels. Grab a snack before a swimming session and keep a check on blood sugar levels. Swim thrice a week for about 15-20 minutes and increase time gradually for best results.
Dancing – zumba or any dancing involves memorizing dance steps which boosts your brain power and improves memory. For people with diabetes, dancing is not only fun and exciting but also the best way to promote weight loss, increase physical activity, lower blood sugar, improve flexibility and reduce stress.
Tai Chi – this is a Chinese form of workout that uses effortless slow body movements to relax and refresh the mind,and body. Tai Chi improves blood sugar levels and helps keep it in good control, increases energy, vitality, and mental health.
Safety tips to follow before working out
- Always monitor your blood sugar before and after working out and make sure to notice how your body responds to any form of exercise you are doing
- Do not forget to warm-up and cool-down before your workout
- Keep yourself hydrated throughout the workout, even before beginning and after finishing
Always wear your medical ID band in case of emergencies, authorities will know what to do to help you - Avoid exerting yourself and exercising in extreme hot or cold temperatures
- Come prepared for low blood sugar episodes.Have something that will balance your sugar levels like a glucose tablet or some candy
- For those with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, your blood sugar level should always be less than 250 mg/dl before working out. For those with type 1 diabetes, working out with blood sugar levels higher than 250 mg/dl might result in health consequences that may occur due to lack of insulin in the blood
Listen to your body, always. If you feel short of breath, lightheaded or dizzy then stop exercising. Stay fit, stay healthy!
