5th November 2024

Diabetes Awareness Month: How Exercise Can Make a Difference for Those Living with Diabetes

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the impact of diabetes and encourage healthy lifestyle changes to manage and prevent the condition. For those living with diabetes, exercise is one of the most effective tools for managing the condition and improving quality of life.

 Let’s explore how physical activity can positively affect individuals with diabetes:

1. Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is key to managing diabetes. Exercise helps burn calories and build muscle, both of which contribute to weight loss and the prevention of excess weight gain. For those with type 2 diabetes, losing even a small amount of weight can make a significant impact on blood sugar levels and overall health.

2. Blood Sugar Control

Regular exercise plays a pivotal role in controlling blood sugar levels. Physical activity increases insulin sensitivity, which means your body’s cells are better able to use insulin to absorb glucose from the bloodstream. This helps to keep blood sugar levels stable and reduces the risk of dangerous spikes or drops. Whether it’s cardio, strength training, or flexibility exercises, staying active can help manage your diabetes more effectively.

3. Heart Health

Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease, making it essential to take care of your cardiovascular health. Exercise is a great way to strengthen the heart, lower blood pressure, and reduce cholesterol levels. Regular physical activity can help prevent complications such as heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues, which are more common in people with diabetes.

4. Reduced Stress

Living with diabetes can sometimes lead to heightened stress levels, whether it’s due to concerns about blood sugar control, medication, or lifestyle changes. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, promoting the release of endorphins–the body’s natural “feel-good” hormones. Regular physical activity can improve mental well-being, increase energy levels, and provide a healthy outlet for stress management.

5. Improved Sleep

For many people with diabetes, sleep disturbances are common, whether due to fluctuating blood sugar levels or other health concerns. Exercise can help regulate sleep patterns, improve the quality of sleep, and reduce insomnia. Regular physical activity helps balance blood sugar levels, which can result in more restful and uninterrupted sleep.

We offer a variety of facilities to help you incorporate exercise into your daily routine. Whether you prefer swimming, group fitness classes, or gym sessions, we’re here to help you stay motivated and reach your health goals, click here to download our app and find what facilities your local centre offers!