Fighting the Epidemic: Diabetes and Exercise

There truly is an epidemic in this country that goes by the name of Diabetes. Recent years have seen an incredible increase in individuals who are being diagnosed with this life altering disease. But here is the good news: If treated properly, diabetes is also easily managed and controlled. Exercise, both aerobically and anaerobically, is a quite often at the top of the list of priorities when treating diabetes, along with proper medication and diet. Throughout this article, I will be discussing the importance of exercise when treating diabetes, and also the many benefits that can be derived from it.

Diabetes is a disease that is characterized by reduced insulin secretion by the pancreatic beta cells and/ or reduced sensitivity to insulin. It causes abnormalities in the metabolism of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. If left untreated, it can be deadly. People who have diabetes are also at a much higher risk of developing kidney failure, nerve disorders, eye problems, and heart disease, and cardiovascular disease. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is caused by the destruction of the insulin producing beta cells in the pancreas which leads to little or no insulin secretion. This type of diabetes generally occurs in childhood and regular insulin injections are required. Common symptoms of Type 1 diabetes are excessive thirst and hunger, frequent urination, weight loss, blurred vision, and recurrent infections.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, affecting nearly 90 % of all diabetic patients. It typically occurs in adults who are overweight and is characterized by a reduced sensitivity to of insulin target cells to available insulin, called insulin resistance. This condition, in which the body is unable to use its own insulin, affects up to 60 million people in the United States, one in four of whom will develop type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is also characterized by frequent states of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) but without the catabolism of fats and protein. Because 75% percent of individuals with type 2 diabetes are obese or have a history of obesity, it is important to note that this condition is often reversible with permanent weight loss. Sadly however, increasing numbers of children are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. This illustrates the importance encouraging healthy living starting at a young age through proper diet and exercise.

In type 1 diabetes, glucose regulation is achieved through regular glucose assessment, proper diet, exercise, and appropriate insulin medication. For type 2 diabetes, it is achieved through lifestyle changes centered around proper diet, weight management, exercise, and insulin medication if needed. By combining a healthy diet with exercise, weight loss is achieved which can lead to improved circulation, a reduced need for insulin, and an improved self image. Stress levels have also been shown to decrease significantly. Exercise plays an especially important role in type 2 diabetes because it reduces both cholesterol levels and weight. When blood glucose levels are high, blood fats become the primary energy source for the body. Higher than normal blood fat levels put diabetics at a higher risk for heart disease.

Before beginning an exercise program, diabetics should speak with their physician to get their approval. The primary goal of exercise for type 1 diabetics is better glucose regulation and reduced heart disease risk. Exercise should be performed consistently so that a regular pattern of diet and insulin dosage can be maintained. Ideally, the type 1 diabetic should perform a similar exercise routine daily within one hour of consuming a meal or snack. The primary goal of exercise for type 2 diabetics is weight loss and weight control. By losing weigh through diet and exercise, they may be able to reduce the amount of oral insulin medication needed. The primary objective is caloric expenditure, which is best achieved by long duration, low intensity exercise. Here are some other guidelines to remember:

1.Diabetics should check their blood glucose levels frequently and work closely with their doctors to determine correct insulin dosage.
2.Diabetics should always carry a rapid- acting carbohydrate such as juice or candy in case they develop low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
3.Insulin should not be injected into the primary muscle groups that will be used during exercise because it will be absorbed too quickly, possibly resulting in hypoglycemia.
4.Diabetics should aim to exercise at the same time each day.
5.Exercise should be avoided during peak insulin activity.
6.A carbohydrate snack should be consumed before and during prolonged exercise.
7.Diabetics should take very good care of their feet, which should be checked regularly for any cuts, blisters, or signs of infection. Good quality exercise shoes are always recommended.
8.Blood glucose levels should be checked before and after exercise.
9.Because exercise has an insulin-like effect, insulin dosages should generally be lowered prior to exercise.

This is serious business folks. Diabetes is a serious disease that requires a very regimented, systematic treatment plan. Especially for type 2 diabetics, proper exercise and diet are an absolute necessity. We can fight this epidemic and significantly decrease the number of new cases of diabetes. But as I mentioned before, an approach of healthy living should be encouraged and utilized, especially in our youth. Once this pattern of healthy living spreads across the board, we will finally be able to cross diabetes of the epidemic list.

Michael Elder has been working as a fitness professional in Chicago for the last thirteen years. He comes from a background in gymnastics and is certified as a personal trainer through the American Council on Exercise (ACE). He can be contacted directly through his website, www.MichaelElder.com.