DIABETES

Only two decades ago, physical exercise for diabetics was frowned upon. In fact, diabetes was used as an excuse to avoid exercise. Today, questions continue to be asked regarding whether a diabetic can exercise safely. Does exercise actually help diabetics or does it hamper the condition? Can exercise control diabetes? Is it safe for diabetics to exercise any time? Do complications from diabetes affect one’s ability to regularly participate in exercise? To answer these questions, you must know about the disease.

Diabetes is a disorder that disrupts glucose, protein and fat metabolism. Typically, persons with diabetes have an elevated blood glucose level (called hyperglycemia) that results from deficient insulin secretion, insulin action, or both.

There are two types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. Each requires different strategies for disease management. Type 1 diabetes requires insulin administration (via injections or pump) to control elevated blood glucose levels. This type of diabetes occurs in about 5-10% of the diabetic population, and in persons less than 30 years of age. Risk factors for this type of diabetes include genetic, auto-immune and environmental elements. Therapeutic strategies focus on achieving as near normal blood glucose control as possible to improve insulin’s action and lesson the likelihood for long term complications associated with this type of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes may require dietary intervention, oral drugs and/or insulin injections to control blood glucose levels. This type of diabetes occurs in 90-95% of the diabetic population and usually affects persons over 30 years of age. Risk factors for type II diabetes include obesity, older age, family history of diabetes and physical inactivity. The primary strategy for managing type II diabetes is to improve insulin action through a reduction in body weight/fat and an increase in physical activity. Weight loss improves the quality of life and reduces the morbidity related to insulin resistance.

You must realize that both types of diabetes are associated with serious complications and premature death. Diabetics must adopt healthy life style habits and perform regular Self-Blood Glucose Monitoring (SBGM) to reduce such adverse health outcomes. The best way to control your blood sugar levels is to know what they are. Regular exercise helps lessen cardiovascular risk factors, such as mild to moderate hypertension, insulin resistance and abnormal lipid profiles. Regular exercise affects not only metabolic control, but also factors related to cardiovascular and psychological heath in diabetes.