Diabetes occurs when glucose (sugar) builds up in the blood. This buildup causes an inability of the body to use the glucose for energy. This inability happens when the insulin does not function correctly. Many people believe that diabetes is a “sugar problem” but it is actually an “insulin problem”.
Exercise is part of a healthy lifestyle for everyone, and it’s especially important for people with diabetes. Exercise does not necessarily mean running a marathon or bench-pressing 300 pounds. The goal is to get active and stay active by doing things you enjoy, from gardening to playing tennis to walking with friends. Benefits of exercise include: lower blood glucose levels, better insulin use, weight loss and retention, lower blood pressure, lower stress levels, and lower risk...
Always check with your doctor before starting an exercise program. Your doctor may want to perform some preliminary tests. Your doctor can also recommend the type of exercise that is best for you. Check your blood glucose each time before and after you exercise. Checking will help you learn how exercise affects your blood sugar. Be aware that exercise can continue to decrease blood glucose levels up to 12 hours after you complete the activity.
Carbohydrate counting is a meal planning method. This method is based on how many grams of carbohydrate you eat at each meal. It focuses on foods that increase blood sugar the most. This allows you to be flexible and enjoy carbohydrates at each meal. The total number of carbohydrates eaten at each meal is based on your activity level. It is also based on your height, and current weight.