Regular exercise is an essential part of managing diabetes. These ten exercises can help to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.
Exercise can be an effective way to lower blood sugar and manage diabetes, as it can help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of complications. However, consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise routine is essential, especially if you have diabetes or other health conditions. They can determine the best exercises and frequency for your individual needs and goals.
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Here are ten exercises that can be particularly beneficial for people with diabetes:
- Walking: Walking is a low-impact, moderate-intensity exercise that can help to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week or at least 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week.
- Jogging: Jogging is a moderate- to high-intensity exercise that can help to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. If you are new to jogging or have any physical limitations, slowly and gradually increase your intensity.
- Swimming: Swimming is a low-impact, moderate-intensity exercise that can help to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. It is also an excellent option for joint pain or other physical limitations.
- Biking: Biking is a low-impact, moderate-intensity exercise that can help to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. It is an excellent option for those who enjoy being outdoors and can be done on a stationary bike or outdoors.
- Resistance training: Resistance training (such as weight lifting or bodyweight exercises) can help to build muscle and improve insulin sensitivity. Aim to incorporate strength training exercises at least two days per week.
- Yoga is a low-impact exercise that can help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. It can also help to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
- Tai Chi: Tai Chi is a low-impact exercise that can help to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. It involves slow, controlled movements and can benefit those with joint pain or other physical limitations.
- Dancing: Dancing is a fun, moderate-intensity exercise that can help to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. It can also be a great way to socialize and have fun.
- Stair climbing: Stair climbing is a high-intensity exercise that can help to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. If you cannot access stairs, you can also use a stair-climbing machine at a gym.
- HIIT: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) involves short bursts of high-intensity exercise followed by rest periods. It can be a very effective way to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, but it is essential to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity over time.
Here are some additional considerations to keep in mind when exercising with diabetes:
- Warm up: It is essential to warm up before any exercise to help prepare your body and reduce the risk of injury. A simple warm-up could include some light cardiovascular activity, such as walking or jogging in place, followed by some dynamic stretches.
- Intensity: The intensity of your exercise should be appropriate for your fitness level and goals. If you are new to the activity or have any physical limitations, starting slowly and gradually increasing your intensity over time is essential.
- Duration: The American Diabetes Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week. It is also recommended to incorporate strength training exercises at least twice weekly.
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