Getting Started
A thousand excuses are available for not exercising !
But then there are a thousand more benefits too of getting
into an exercise regimen.
Think of exercise as the journey to the health and body of
your dreams.
The American Diabetes Association says that "Taking that
first step can be hard. Maybe you've never exercised. Maybe
you used to but stopped. Maybe you've just been diagnosed
with diabetes and feel like you'll never be fit again. We've
all got plenty of reasons not to exercise. We're:
Too old.
Too fat.
Too weak.
Too sick.
Too busy.
Too tired.
What we need to remember is that it's never too late. With
few exceptions, even if you're disabled or injured you can
still improve your level of fitness. Once you get going, you'll
be amazed how quickly your excuses fade. "
Exercise is good for your diabetes. There are several good
ways to exercise. You can even get exercise when you clean
house or work in your garden.
Benefits of exercise :
Exercise helps keep weight down.
Exercise helps insulin work better to lower blood sugar.
Exercise is good for your heart and lungs.
Exercise gives you more energy.
Getting started
Try to exercise regularly. Exercise at least three times
a week for about 30 to 45 minutes each time. If you have not
exercised in a while, begin slowly. Start with 5 to 10 minutes,
and then work up to more time.
If you haven't eaten for over an hour or if your blood sugar
is less than 100-120, eat or drink something like an apple
or a glass of milk before you exercise.
When you exercise, carry a snack with you in case of low
blood sugar. Wear or carry an identification tag or card saying
that you have diabetes.
Before you begin exercising, talk with your doctor. Your
doctor may check your heart and your feet to be sure you have
no special problems. If you have high blood pressure or eye
problems, some exercises like weight-lifting may not be safe.
Your doctor or nurse will help you find safe exercises.
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