To help improve overall health, physicians recommend regular exercise. People exercise for a variety of reasons. Whether they're interested in losing weight or wanting to release stress, people are willing to spend money on gym memberships, workout equipment, and nutritional supplements. For diabetics, exercise means more than shedding a few pounds or unleashing work-related frustrations. Cardiovascular exercise and weight training not only improve diabetes, but can reduce your risk of developing other life-threatening diseases linked to diabetes.

Aerobic exercises can increase insulin function by improving insulin sensitivity. This makes it easier for your body to control blood sugar. For diabetics with families, friends, and other responsibilities, fitting in exercise can seem unrealistic. Although physical activity can decrease insulin resistance, the effects only last for a few days. In order to maintain a healthy blood sugar level, you must exercise on a regular basis. Regardless of how busy your schedule may be, it's important to make your diabetes and exercise priorities.

There are several exercises that are beneficial to those suffering from diabetes. In addition to improving blood glucose levels, an aerobic exercise program can prevent other conditions associated with diabetes. Aerobic exercise, which significantly increases heart rate and blood flow, will decrease the chances of developing heart disease, high cholesterol, and stroke. It also may hinder the progression of diabetic neuropathy - a common diabetes complication that is characterized by widespread damage to the nervous system. Running, swimming, dancing, bicycling, and hiking are only a few examples of exercises.

Resistance training is another form of exercise that can improve blood sugar levels. In combination with a healthy diet, using weights can decrease body fat. This makes it easier for your muscles to absorb and store glucose. By preventing excess glucose from spilling over into the bloodstream, your blood sugar will be less likely to rise. If you don't possess a gym membership or own workout equipment, walking whenever possible, using stairs instead of elevators, and being active around the house can also improve your health.

Here are some other helpful tips about diabetes and exercise.

• Check your blood glucose level before, during, and after you exercise
• If your blood sugar is already high, exercise and diabetes is an unhealthy combination
• When exercising, have a healthy snack on hand
• Stretch before and after you exercise
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Wear an I.D. bracelet
• To prevent sores and blisters from forming, wear comfortable shoes and socks
• Set short-term and long-term goals to help keep you motivated
• Keep your body guessing by changing up your exercise routine

There are some risks associated with exercise and diabetes. Occasionally, a diabetic's blood sugar will drop as a result of exercise - a condition known as hypoglycemia. Carrying a snack with you can prevent this from happening. Although this can occur, diabetics should not refrain from including exercise in their daily routine.

Before beginning a new regiment, consult your doctor about the benefits and risks associated with diabetes and exercise. Your physician can customize a personal exercise program that suits your schedule as well as your interests.