Exercise helps Type 2 diabetics control their blood sugar, keeps weight down, and can help reduce cholesterol levels.
When you start your exercise program, keep the following in tips in mind:
* Make sure you have comfortable shoes that are made for walking or jogging. Watch for blisters on your feet. The best way to break in new shoes is to wear them for awhile every day. That way you're unlikely to get blisters. Wearing quality, good fitting socks will also help avoid blisters.
* When you first start exercising, start slowly. Walking, riding a bike, or swimming are good ways to get started. Increase your exercise time gradually - if you're really out of shape, start with 5 minutes and each day add another minute of exercise time.
* As a safety precaution, wear an ID tag for diabetics. That way if you have a problem or injury yourself you'll get proper treatment.
* If you have high blood pressure, don't lift heavy weights.
* Choose biking or swimming if you have foot problems.
* To ease your body into working out, stretch for 5 minutes first. You should do this even if you're only going to walk for a short while. To avoid soreness, stretch again for 5 minutes after your workout.
Daily exercise is your best bet. You'll get into the habit if you workout every day at the same time, and soon it will come naturally. Daily exercise will also help you control your blood sugar. At a minimum, exercise 3 times a week, for 30-45 minutes.
Food and Medication
To keep sugar levels even, if you exercise an hour or more after eating, have a small, high carb snack first. If you're involved in a heavier exercise routine, like running or aerobics, you should eat a larger snack before working out.
You should also carry something to eat along with you, such as raisins, in case your blood sugar gets low. It's a good idea to test your blood sugar before your exercise and also afterward. If you blood sugar level is high, postpone exercising until it is at a good level.
If you've recently been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, or have been living a sedentary lifestyle, you should talk to your doctor before you start an exercise program. Depending upon any complications you may have, as well as how well your diabetes is controlled, your doctor will have suggestions as to the best exercise for you.
If you are a Type 2 diabetic learn more about how to stay healthy with diet and exercise. Visit our blog at www.Support4Diabetics.com.
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Kay Zeeh - EzineArticles Expert Author
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