If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, one of the best ways to help control your condition is by living a healthy lifestyle. For most diabetics, staying active and getting regular exercise is an important component of your healthy routine.
Diabetes specialist Thomas Nguyen, MD, and our team at Nguyen Medical Group in Boynton Beach, Florida, recommend exercise for nearly every person who has diabetes. Follow these tips to exercise safely with diabetes and have fun at the same time.
Exercise has a significant number of general benefits, including lowering your risk of developing other chronic diseases, improving your mood, and strengthening your muscles and bones. Additionally, as a diabetic, exercise helps you control your condition.
Moderate exercise improves the flow of your blood and uses extra glucose, which assists your body in lowering your blood sugar levels. Exercise is also helpful in managing your weight, which is important for diabetics.
When you exercise as a person with diabetes, keep these pointers in mind.
It’s important to schedule an appointment with Dr. Nguyen and our team before you start an exercise program. Even if you’ve previously been or are currently active, your exercise needs might have changed with diabetes.
At your appointment, our providers ensure your body is safe to exercise and take into account any special considerations you have when giving you exercise advice, such as whether you have any complications of diabetes. They also help you develop a customized fitness plan that takes into account your current fitness levels and health.
The most beneficial and safe types of exercise for your health are moderate, which means you’re exerting an effort but are still able to talk without becoming short of breath. Aim to get 150 minutes of weekly moderate physical activity for the most health benefits.
As a diabetic, you’re at risk for various foot complications, including peripheral neuropathy and diabetic ulcers and wounds. To prevent any additional problems, make sure to wear clean, dry socks and shoes that fit you well.
Examine your feet daily for any cuts, blisters, or sores, and contact Nguyen Medical Group if you develop any foot issues or you have cuts or blisters that don’t seem to be healing. If you have peripheral neuropathy, choose exercise that doesn’t put a direct impact on your feet, like swimming or cycling.
Since exercise causes your blood sugar to dip, it’s important to make sure your levels don’t get too low. Depending on your specific needs, Dr. Nguyen might advise you to check your blood sugar before exercise to ensure it’s at a safe level for your activity.
Additionally, become aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar, including feeling suddenly fatigued, irritable, and experiencing shakiness in your hands. Bring a snack with you so you can eat when you experience these signs, especially if your athletic activity lasts more than an hour.
Last but not least, you’re most likely to keep up your exercise program if you choose aerobic activities you find fun. Keep exploring different kinds of athletic activities until you find your favorite, and remember, staying fit can happen in all kinds of environments.
If you have diabetes, our team at Nguyen Medical Group can help. Call us or schedule an online appointment to get started with our skilled providers.
