Staying Active With Type 2 Diabetes
Post Date: Jun 07, 2023
Medical
When you have type 2 diabetes, your cells don’t interact normally with the hormone insulin. Insulin gives your body the power to turn blood sugar into energy that your body needs. So your body produces more and more insulin, but eventually, it can’t keep up, and your blood sugar will rise. Being active when you have type 2 diabetes can help. By getting moving, your body becomes more sensitive to insulin, helping to lower your blood sugar. But being active can sometimes be daunting when you’ve been dealing with health issues. Here’s how to stay active when you have type 2 diabetes.
Interested in learning more about exercising with type 2 diabetes? Check out this podcast episode.
Exercise with diabetes
There are a few extra steps that people with type 2 diabetes should consider when establishing an exercise routine. Consider the items below, and take action to create a sustainable habit of movement that works for you.
Talk to your provider
If you’re unsure about what sort of activity will be most comfortable for you or you don’t know where to start, a conversation with your provider can set you on the right path. Reach out to make an appointment, and they can help you build the exercise habit that will work best for you.
Check your feet
Symptoms like dry skin, fungal infections, blisters, ulcers, sores, ingrown toenails, or pain, tingling, or burning in your feet can be common with type 2 diabetes. If you notice any of these, whether when you’re active or otherwise, make an appointment with your provider right away. By checking your feet regularly, you lower the chance that a small problem will go unnoticed and turn into a big problem.
Wear socks and shoes that fit properly
One of the best ways to keep your feet healthy and free of sores and blisters is to wear socks and shoes that fit properly. If you’re not sure how to get a good fit, you can always speak with your provider or go into a local shoe store to have your feet sized.
Test your blood sugar
Before and after being active, test your blood sugar. Talk to your provider about what a healthy range is. If it’s too low, you should eat a snack before you move. If it’s too high, it might be unsafe to exercise, and you should seek immediate medical attention.
Types of gentle activities to try
Don’t be intimidated by the idea of getting moving. You don’t need to join a gym or be in the best shape to feel the benefits of physical activity. Here are a few options to try.
Going for a walk
Walking is low impact, and it’s accessible to many people without a cost barrier for entry. If walking is comfortable and possible for you, try adding in a 10-minute walk when you wake up or after dinner. Even just a short distance and time commitment can help.
Swimming laps
If you do have foot discomfort or aren’t able to walk for other reasons, swimming or water aerobics can be a gentle way to get in some cardio.
Taking a bike ride
Another lower-impact exercise option, riding a bike goes easy on your body while providing a ton of benefits for your heart and muscles.
Doing work around your home
Yard work, and household chores, though they might not seem like glamorous ways to exercise, are a great way to keep moving with low intensity.
Playing with kids or grandkids
Even moving around while you play is enough to get your heart rate up. Connecting with loved ones can also give an extra boost to your mental health.
For medical advice to support you through living with type 2 diabetes, make an appointment with your provider. Whether you’re near Bozeman, Belgrade, or Livingston, find affordable, compassionate care at one of CHP’s clinics.
