Type 2 Diabetes - Exercise IS OK Before And After Meals
Type 2 Diabetes - Exercise IS OK Before And After Meals
Those with type 2 diabetes can exercise just about any time of the day. The best way to learn when you can exercise is to experiment and monitor the results. Some find exercising in the morning is better than the evening. Some find the opposite to be true. Many choose to exercise in short intervals throughout the day. Exercise before and after a meal is possible. All depends on what you usually eat and how your blood glucose levels react. If your glucose levels are below the 250 milligrams per deciliter level (14 mmol/L), it is usually safe to exercise. The only exception is if you have ketones in your urine.
Plan to exercise around the same time each day. Getting into a pattern and maintaining it helps your body regulate your blood glucose levels. Plan your meals accordingly though. If you plan to exercise soon after you eat, make sure you add some additional carbohydrates to help elevate glucose levels slightly to compensate for the drop during exercise. Take some carbohydrate snacks with you when you go to exercise. If you feel a sudden drop in your glucose levels, you will have some quick energy nearby. All of this will help you exercise in the most effective way while managing your type 2 diabetes.
When you combine exercise with diet and medicine, management of diabetes becomes easier even in those on insulin. Exercise brings many other health benefits as well. It helps manage weight issues. It counteracts heart and circulation problems. Exercise has emotional benefits as well. Many diabetics suffer from anxiety and depression because of their diagnosis. Exercise helps counteract those emotions. For those with a family history of type 2 diabetes or those who are overweight, it is a proven way to reduce your risk of developing the disease in the first place.
Use caution when exercising if you have type 2 diabetes. Exercising if your blood glucose levels are too high is a definite no-no. So is exercising for longer periods than you might usually do. Your body may react by releasing more glucose to supply the cells with energy. That can elevate your glucose levels into the danger zone. Ensure you stay hydrated as well. Low hydration can lead to fainting or even a coma. It is important to wear the appropriate shoes. All of these precautions will help you get the best results from your exercise without endangering your health.