Diabetes

Get Out and Exercise

Why should you exercise? It has many benefits, but check with your primary care provider before starting an exercise regimen to determine the best activities for you to do after your provider performs an examination (Getting started with physical activity, 2012).

What benefits will exercise do for diabetes?

• Lowers blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol

• Improves the way your insulin works in your body

• Helps blood circulation to improve

• Lowers your risk for heart disease and stroke

• Strengthens and tones your muscles

• Makes your heart stronger

• Keeps your body and joints more flexible (Getting started with physical activity, 2012),

What kind of exercise is best and for how long?

• Aerobic exercise such as brisk walking, dancing, biking or swimming. Do this 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.

• Strength training such as lifting weights at home. Do this 3 times a week (Getting started with physical activity, 2012).

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