subject: How to Control Diabetes with Exercise [print this page] How to Control Diabetes with Exercise How to Control Diabetes with Exercise
A report by the UnitedHealth Group reveals that more than 50% of Americans could contract diabetes or prediabetes by the end of 2020. Further, the report suggests that treating diabetes would cost nearly $3.35 trillion in the next decade. Also, the annual cost of treatment is expected to rise from $194 billion to $500 billion. However, there are many practical steps that can be taken to defuse the risk of diabetes. An effective exercise regime plays a key role in managing diabetes. Combining exercise with proper diet and medicine can prove effective in controlling blood sugar levels along with body weight.
Stabilize Your Blood Sugar Level with Exercise
Taking sustained brisk walks, eating sufficient fiber and having a low fat intake can prove effective. A study conducted on a group of people with high physical activity, having a proper diet with modest smoking and alcohol intake revealed that they experienced 82% lower incidence of diabetes. The ADA (American Diabetes Association) recommends a minimum of 2.5 hours of exercise every week.
Further, a joint study conducted by the University of Ottawa and the University of Calgary revealed that aerobic or resistance training can improve glycemic control in patients suffering from type 2 diabetes. Further, better results are observed when aerobic is combined with resistance training. It is preferable to devote a fixed amount of time to each form of exercise rather than spending all your time in just one form of exercise.
The combined program can effectively reduce HbA1c by 0.5 percentage points. HbA1c levels depict long term glycemic or sugar control in diabetic patients. The HbA1c level of a person without diabetes is 6% or less. Siabetic patients are directed to maintain their HbA1c below 7%. Further, exercise fosters the independent uptake of glucose with the help of adrenaline.
You need not perform rigorous exercises. However, you need to exercise on a regular basis. A 45-minute brisk walk every day is a great idea.
