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Get Moving: How Exercise Impacts Type 1 Diabetes Management
Published: May 15, 2024
Exercise is not just good for your heart and muscles; it plays a critical role in managing type 1 diabetes. Discover how to incorporate exercise into your diabetes care plan.
Exercise and Blood Sugar
Physical activity helps control blood sugar by increasing insulin sensitivity and promoting glucose uptake by muscles. For people with type 1 diabetes, regular exercise can improve overall health and make insulin more effective. However, it's important to monitor blood sugar levels before, during, and after exercise to avoid hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
Types of Exercise
Both aerobic and resistance exercises benefit those with type 1 diabetes, but they affect blood sugar differently. Aerobic exercise, like running or cycling, can lower blood sugar quickly, while resistance training, like weightlifting, may have a more prolonged effect. Incorporating a mix of both types can provide balanced benefits and improve glucose control.
Managing Insulin and Exercise
Adjusting insulin doses around exercise is crucial to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Depending on the exercise's intensity and duration, insulin doses might need to be reduced before, during, or after workouts. Some may need a snack or reduced insulin to prevent low blood sugar during or after exercise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Exercise increases insulin sensitivity and helps lower blood sugar.
Both aerobic and resistance exercises are beneficial.
Yes, insulin doses may need adjustment around exercise.
Yes, it's possible, so monitoring is important.
Wrapping Up
Exercise is a powerful tool in diabetes management, but it requires careful planning and monitoring.
References
- Weight gain associated with intensive therapy in the diabetes control and complications trial. The DCCT Research Group. Diabetes Care 1988; 11:567.
- Exercise guidance in adults with diabetes mellitus.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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