• Home
• About Yvonne
• RSS

Diabetes and Exercise – When You Should Not Exercise

Persons who have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes are told that incorporating an exercise program is one of the most effective ways to stave off the onset of full-blown diabetes.  If you have already been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, you know that exercise is very effective in the control, and even reversal, of diabetes.

It’s important to note, however, that before you exercise there are some points you should consider:

• Make sure to monitor and record your blood sugar before you exercise.  You should be sure to do this again after you exercise.  When your blood sugar is above 300, exercise could, in fact, be harmful.  This is because there is insufficient insulin to transport the required glucose into the muscles.  The increase in adrenaline as a result of exercise, will raise blood sugar even higher.
• How is your water intake?  Drink Plenty of water before, during, and after you exercise.  Do no wait until you feel thirsty because by then you will already be a little dehydrated.
• Think about when you last had a meal.  It is recommended that you exercise 60 to 90 minutes after a meal.
• When was the last time you checked the soles of your feet?  Check your feet for sores before you start any kind of repetitive motion.
• Make sure that you have on proper fitting shoes and socks.

When exercising it is important to let others know that you are diabetic. They should be informed what to do in case of hypoglycemia.  You should always carry candy or fruit juice to treat low blood sugar levels should they occur.

During and after exercise sessions, you should pay close attention to how you feel since rapid heart beat, increased sweating, feeling shaky, or hunger can signal that your blood sugar levels are becoming too low.  While the benefits of exercise outweigh the risks, it’s good to be aware of any potential dangers.

Share this:

Comments