Lifestyle Tips For Diabetes

Get Regular Exercise

Regular exercise is vital for patients with diabetes. This helps keep their risk of complications such as cardiovascular disease low. It also lessens their reliance on medication to control their blood glucose and blood pressure. It does this as exercise makes the body more responsive to insulin. In the case of type 2 diabetes, this means the body will be better able to use the insulin it does make.

The normal expert recommendation for exercise is 30 minutes of moderate to intense activity 5 days a week. This is a good starting point, but many doctors say individuals with diabetes should try getting more than this whenever possible. Good types of exercise include yoga, swimming, walking, jogging, and strength training.

Stress does more than most individuals think. Learn about its major connection to diabetes and how it can both hurt and help next.

Manage Stress

Many individuals do not realize this, but when they are stressed out, their blood sugar will go up. This is because the body is getting extra energy ready for a ‘fight or flight’ response. Higher blood glucose is good for individuals who are considered healthy. This is the response they want, since stress also helps them get out of danger. It is meant to be a short term response.

Unfortunately, chronic stress can have devastating effects, particularly on diabetes patients. This is because it contributes to consistently elevated blood sugar. It will also boost insulin resistance, which makes it much more difficult for diabetes patients to manage their condition effectively. There are countless options for stress management, which can get overwhelming for some. What works for each patient will vary, but good strategies to start with including taking a relaxing bath, reading, doing yoga, and listening to calming music. Some even try meditating.

Continue reading to understand how sleep can help diabetes patients next.