Looking into type 1 diabetes exercise options and the benefits to stabilize blood sugar levels in diabetics. Insulin and sleep are important, however, exercise and nutrition are the King and Queen of blood glucose control in type 1 diabetics. Regular physical activity helps control high blood sugar levels while it’s important for all individuals looking to control body weight, increase energy and improves wellbeing.
There isn’t much that regular physical activity can’t fix or make better. The body is designed to move, however, everyday our world gets more sedentary with modern day convenience. Cardiovascular exercise, resistance training, stress reduction and flexibility are the main components to an active lifestyle. Each component provides many benefits, including blood glucose control.
Cardiovascular training conditions the heart muscle and pumps fresh, oxygenated blood throughout the body. The heart is a muscle about the size of your fist. However, a strong heart contracts and pushes maximum blood throughout the body. This results in better circulation, more efficient oxygen exchange and less strain on the heart muscle over time. Cardiovascular exercise aids the body in burning extra glucose, therefore improving insulin resistance. After a big meal go out and take a brisk walk around the block. This will help the body to get moving while utilizing excess glucose from your meal. Some examples of cardio exercises include jumping rope, brisk walking, park bench step ups, bike riding, roller blading and more.
Resistance training is so important to healthy aging as well as managing blood sugar levels. As we age, we lose muscle. This process happens faster when we don’t use our body to push or pull weight. Body weight, machine, and dumbbells are all forms of resistance apparatus. The body needs to realize the importance of keeping muscle otherwise it’s a “use it or lose it” result. Resistance training helps muscle uptake glucose from the foods you eat. After resistance training the muscles are more metabolically active and requiring more energy from food for up to 24 hours. This process helps to lower blood sugar, therefore reducing the amount of insulin needed to maintain your blood sugar.
Any type of movement for the body is helpful to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Possibly the best part about type 1 diabetes exercise is it makes you happy. Exercise and working out makes you nicer to the people in your life. As a result, it will help you make better decisions and improve quality of life. #t1d #t1dexercise
Certified professional fitness trainer with knowledge in specific exercise programs, diet and nutrition.
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