Article Summary:
Type 2 diabetes is often the result of poor lifestyle choices, particularly in respect of diet and exercise. So, how does exercise benefit a person suffering from type 2 diabetes, and which exercises are the most beneficial? Find out in this article.
Full Article:
Type 2 diabetes is often the result of poor lifestyle choices, particularly in respect of diet and exercise. So, how does exercise benefit a person suffering from type 2 diabetes, and which exercises are the most beneficial?
How a Diabetic benefits from exercise
Taking regular moderate exercise benefits every one in general in the following four ways:
# 1. By strengthening the heart and lungs, which results in improved blood circulation to the arms and legs.
# 2. By reducing cholesterol level and lowering blood pressure. This will reduce the risk of having a stroke or a heart attack.
# 3. If you are over weight, exercise combined with diet will help you lose weight and to maintain your ideal weight when you have reached it.
# 4. By relief from stress brought about by our modern lifestyle.
In addition, diabetics gain this additional benefit from taking regular moderate exercise:
# 5. It assists your body to better react to the insulin that it produces, which could even lead to the elimination of medication.
However, for some people who suffer from diabetes there might be a risk associated with taking exercise. If in doubt, consult you doctor before starting an exercise programme.
When is the bet time to Exercise?
According to the research published by the Quebec Heart Institute, there is a substantial reduction in the blood glucose if exercise is done 4 to 5 hours after eating the last meal. It should be noted that the research discourages diabetics from taking exercise before breakfast.
Which exercises are best and effective for diabetics?
Ideally, diabetics should exercise for at least 30 minutes everyday. For this to be practicable, your exercise routine should fit in with your daily commitments. There is no need to go to the expense of joining a gym or purchasing expensive home exercise equipment. As little as 30 minutes brisk walking a day has been shown to have beneficial effects. This type of exercise is called aerobic because the body uses increased levels of oxygen due to the steady exercise for a period of time. This type of exercise is sometimes called cardio-vascular exercise because, in addition to increased oxygen intake, it strengthens the heart and lungs.
Other forms of aerobic exercise include swimming, jogging, and cycling. Leave the car in the garage and walk to the local shop to buy your daily newspaper or try cycling to work to get fit and save money.
Taking regular moderate amounts of aerobic exercise will strengthen your heart and lungs, lower your blood pressure, reduce your cholesterol level and help your body to better react to the insulin that it produces.
To achieve the best results, your daily exercise routine should be supported by a proper diet. Combined, diet and exercise form part of a natural cure for diabetes.
Robert Reddin is a writer with more than 7 years experience and has numerous off-line and on-line articles to his credit. His interest in diabetes arose when a close family member was diagnosed with the condition. There is more information on treating diabetes here.
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