Get Moving To Manage Your Diabetes

"If you have diabetes, getting regular physical activity is key to helping manage your blood sugar. Read on for tips to help you get moving and keep going.

One of the most important things that you can do for your health is to get regular physical activity. There are so many benefits, from sleeping better to feeling happier. Regular physical activity can also help you:

• Lose or maintain your weight.
• Improve your memory.
• Manage your blood pressure.
• Lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol.

Physical activity is a foundation of diabetes management. It helps you manage blood sugar levels and lowers your risk of other complications, including heart disease and nerve damage.

Breaking Down the Barriers

It might sound hard to make a healthy change, but don’t talk yourself out of physical activity before you start. Here are a few tips to help you get moving:

• You can start slowly. You don’t have to spend hours at the gym. The goal is to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity every week. One way to reach that goal is to be active for 30 minutes on most days. Depending on your fitness level, you could start with a 10-minute walk after dinner and build up slowly. Be sure to check with your doctor about which activities are best for you and if there are any you should avoid.
• It can lower your blood sugar. While some benefits of physical activity may take longer to see, some are immediate. Check your blood sugar before and after you take a walk, and you’ll likely see a lower number after.
• You can do it for free. You don’t need to pay for a gym membership. There are plenty of free options. Walk during lunch, dance to some tunes at home, or find a free online workout—there are so many to choose from!
• Small changes can make a difference. You don’t need a big chunk of time to be active. You can find small ways to get in more activity throughout the day. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Play with your kids outside. Get up and move around during commercials when you watch TV..."
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