Question:
Is it a good idea to drink fluids while I exercise?
Answer:
Drinking fluids while exercising is a good idea Actually you
should try to drink something not only during the exercise but also
before and after working out. This helps prevent dehydration and helps
to replenish the fluids and nutrients your body loses during exercise.
This is especially important for people with diabetes. Therefore
during strenuous exercise, consider a high-glucose sports drink which
can help prevent your blood-sugar from going too low.
Question:
I am elderly and it is rather hard for me to get around. Should I
still try to exercise?
Answer:
You should try to exercise regardless of your age. If it is difficult
to get out, you can do various stretches in your home and even while
sitting down. As our bodies age, warming up with stretching exercises
becomes more and more important. You may find that after properly
stretching, you can do more than you thought you could.
Question:
I have both diabetes and arthritis. Can I still workout?
Answer:
Yes, you can, but try two things to make exercising safer. One, make
sure you stretch before all exercises, and secondly you should plan
exercises which will strengthen your muscles and make you feel better.
Question:
What is the best way to gain flexibility before I start working out?
Answer:
The best way is to stretch as much as possible to decrease tension in
your muscles. Flexibility can also help prevent injuries so be sure to
stretch plenty before you exercise.
Types of Exercise
Question:
Is there a limit to types of exercise a person with diabetes can do?
Answer:
There is no limit to what people with diabetes can do. Barring another
medical condition, people with diabetes can do anything and
everything. You can walk or bike, swim or hike for exercise. These are
only examples and everyone is different, so be sure to ask your
physician if you should have any limits in your exercise program.
Question:
If I workout at the gym, what is the best machine I can use on a daily
basis?
Answer:
Stair climbers and treadmills are excellent machines to use at the
gym. They simulate walking and climbing which can help burn fat, build
endurance, and strengthen the cardio-vascular system. Weight-lifting
can also provide a great workout. The important thing is to find
something you enjoy, and exercise safely.
Question:
What is the best exercise to improve my blood-sugar levels?
Answer:
Walking seems to be an excellent exercise for a majority of people.
Again, it is best to consult your physician to tailor an exercise
program to fit your particular situation.
Question:
As part of my workout, is it helpful to ride on a stationary bicycle?
Answer:
Riding a stationary bicycle not only gives you a great aerobic
workout, but it also strengthens your legs and helps build muscular
endurance.
Diabetes,
Exercise & Weight Loss
Question:
If I lower my blood-sugar levels, is there a possibility that I could
gain weight?
Answer:
Yes, there is that possibility. To decrease your chances of gaining
weight, begin to exercise more often and more intensely and reduce the
amount of food that you eat. Consult your health professional to
adjust your diet and exercise program accordingly.
Question:
If I have diabetes, what is the most effective way to lose weight?
Answer:
Regular exercise and good nutrition are the keys to weight loss.
Regular exercise helps you lose weight by burning calories and
increasing your metabolism. Eating well-balanced meals and controlling
your caloric intake can also further your weight loss efforts.
Question:
If I am planning on losing weight, why can’t I just diet instead of
exercising?
Answer:
If you want to achieve permanent weight loss, most diets don’t work
by themselves. A diet that severely restricts calories is dangerous
for anyone, especially for those of us with diabetes. Exercise,
combined with your diet plan, helps maintain the weight loss and
strengthens your body.
