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Managing diabetes

Being more active is crucial for managing diabetes because it has several benefits that directly impact blood sugar control and overall health. Here’s why:

  1. Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Physical activity makes your body more sensitive to insulin, the hormone that allows cells to use blood sugar for energy. This helps manage diabetes by regulating blood glucose levels.

  2. Heart Disease and Nerve Damage Prevention: Regular physical activity lowers the risk of complications associated with diabetes, such as heart disease and nerve damage.

  3. Weight Management: While weight loss is important, being active contributes to weight management. It helps burn calories, maintain a healthy weight, and improve overall well-being.

  4. Happiness and Sleep: Exercise can boost mood, improve sleep quality, and enhance memory.

Remember, the goal is to get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity physical activity. Find activities you enjoy, start small, and gradually increase intensity.


If you’re looking to get more active to combat diabetes, here are some steps you can take:

  1. Start Small: Begin slowly and gradually increase your activity level. For instance, park farther from the door, take the stairs, do yard work, or walk the dog.

  2. Find an Activity You Enjoy: Choose something you like, so you’re more likely to stick with it. Whether it’s walking, dancing, swimming, or biking, find an activity that suits you.

  3. Get a Partner: Having someone to exercise with can make it more enjoyable and help you stay motivated.

  4. Set Specific Goals: For example, aim to walk a mile every day for a month or be active every weekday for 30 minutes.

Remember to discuss your activity goals with your health care provider. Regular physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity, control blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of heart disease and nerve damage.


Low-impact exercises are gentle on the joints and can be performed without excessive force or jarring. They’re ideal for people who want to stay active while minimizing strain. Here are some examples:

  1. Walking: A simple yet effective low-impact exercise that improves cardiovascular health and strengthens muscles.

  2. Swimming: Provides a full-body workout without impact on joints.

  3. Cycling: Great for leg strength and cardiovascular fitness.

  4. Yoga: Enhances flexibility, balance, and relaxation.

  5. Pilates: Focuses on core strength and stability.

  6. Tai Chi: Combines movement, balance, and mindfulness.

  7. Light Strength Training: Use resistance bands or light weights to build muscle without high impact.               Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, especially if you have specific health concerns.

Note: if taking time to actually exercise is not something you are motivated to do or can do at this time, just being more active in your daily activities can make a big improvement as well. Walk up that extra flight of stairs, take the stairs instead of the elevator, park further away from the store entrance… turning on your favorite music and dancing for 5 to 10 minutes is not only great for controlling your sugar levels but it’s also a great mood enhancer as well.. movement abd exercise release serotonin…

Serotonin has many different roles. It helps control the muscles and how you move, and it influences appetite and how your bowels work. It also helps your blood to clot and wounds to heal, and is involved in inflammation.

Serotonin is also very important in the brain. Serotonin is one of the natural body chemicals that controls your mood. It works with melatonin to help control when you sleep and wake up, as well as how you feel pain, wellbeing and sexual desire.

So moving more will not only help you in your journey to control or conquer diabetes, but it can also help you feel better in mind, body and spirit. It will help you to rebalance your life.

 
 
 

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