Exercise for type 1 diabetes is beneficial for many reasons. Type 1 diabetes is a chronic disease, but it is manageable. The condition can occur at any age and presents itself when there are high levels of sugar glucose in the blood. Exercise reduces blood sugar levels. Besides providing more energy, causing weight loss and reducing stress levels, exercise improves how a person’s body uses insulin.
Diabetic neuropathy is a common problem in patients because it causes complications related to circulation issues that develop as a result of the disease. Because the blood vessels in the body often become restricted in diabetic patients, blood does not flow throughout the body as it normally would in a person without diabetes. Exercise for type 1 diabetes encourages blood flow so that it reaches all parts of the body, especially the hands and feet. When circulation issues happen in a diabetic person, it can become very dangerous because they become more susceptible to infection and diabetic ulcers that could ultimately lead to amputation or death. Exercise for type 1 diabetes can reduce the risk for something like this happening.
Aerobic exercise, strengthening exercises and stretching are all beneficial methods of exercise for type 1 diabetes. Those with type 1 diabetes should not, however, participate in heavy weight lifting because it causes more pressure to be put on the blood vessels in the eyes. High-impact exercise should also be avoided because diabetics are prone to nerve damage that causes loss of sensation in the feet. Therefore, swimming may be more appropriate than high-impact aerobic exercise.
Factors to Consider with Exercise for Type 1 Diabetes
Exercise affects glucose in the body in a similar way as insulin does. Therefore, when exercise for type 1 diabetes happens, less insulin may be injected for controlling blood glucose. According to information presented by Medscape News, those affected by type 1 diabetes can still participate in leisure activities, recreational sports and competitive performance as long as they control their blood glucose levels and are not experiencing complications associated with the disease.
When exercising, a diabetic should make sure to wear safe and appropriate footwear. This is important for the prevention of skin lesions and irritation. For example, shoes and socks should be loose fitting so that the skin is allowed to breathe and is not subjected to a potential moisture buildup that can lead to irritation. Also, socks and shoes should not rub against the feet, because this can lead to ulcers. This is why there are special shoes and socks that are designed for diabetics.
There are a few guidelines patients should follow when exercising. First of all, they should never participate in exercise if their glucose levels are greater than 300 mg/dl. Monitoring blood glucose is also essential before and after exercise so that type 1 diabetics can identify when changes in insulin happen and when food intake is appropriate. During and after exercise for type 1 diabetes, foods that are rich in carbohydrates should be readily available to keep blood glucose levels in check.
