Exercise

Exercise is important for people with diabetes for lots of reasons:

• Helps control weight
• Helps insulin work better
• Helps control blood sugar
• Helps control blood fats e.g. cholesterol
• It is good for the heart
• It tones muscle
• It helps people relax
• It helps people feel good

• Exercise is a personal thing which needs to be tailored to the individuals needs
• People with diabetes needs to discuss an exercise programme with their doctor or diabetes team
• Exercise should be regular. Try to include some activity in everyday life
• Just increasing usual activity can be helpful e.g. walking up stairs instead of lift, or parking the car a few blocks away
• Check blood sugar before and after exercise, and during if exercising intensively or for a long time
• People on insulin may need to adjust their insulin before exercise
• It may be wise to take a snack
• Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes
• Warm muscles slowly before exercise by stretching first
• Exercise should be enjoyable