Can a diabetic patient exercise?

Wondering whether you can exercise if you are a diabetic? Read on to find out.

Written By: Tania Tarafdar | Updated : September 4, 2015 3:04 PM IST

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Contrary to popular belief, being diagnosed with diabetes does not mean that you cannot exercise. In fact, staying physically active can be an excellent way to prevent as well as control diabetes. It only means that you exercise with extra care. So, Krupa Mhatre Asst. Head of Nutritionist Gold s Gym Mumbai shares a few exercise tips for diabetics.

Yes, a diabetic can perform every physical activity

As we know, physical activity is one of the best ways to keep blood sugar level in control.So, if you are diabetic, you can do all kind of exercises. You can begin with these form of exercises. When you indulge in any type physical activity, your insulin sensitivity increases. The cells are in a state to better use the available insulin to take up glucose during and after activity. Also, when your muscles contract during activity, it utilises blood sugars that do not require insulin. This mechanism lets your cells take up glucose and use it for energy even if insulin is not available.

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Though physical activity leads to blood sugar control, it is necessary to keep a check on your blood sugar levels before and after the exercise session.

Here s when you should avoid exercising.

Your blood sugar level is above 250 mg/dl.
You are ill or suffering from any infection.
There is the presence of ketones in your urine.
You experience tingling, pain or numbness in legs.
You feel dizzy, nauseous and experience shortness of breath.

Here are some other factors you should take into consideration before exercising:

Check your feet for any cuts, sores, bruises or blisters. If you find one, try to avoid activities like running or jumping that could injure your feet. Check your nails and if they turn blue/black, doctors may advise against close-toed shoes or investigate further.
Also, make sure that you wear comfortable footwear. Follow these tips to buy the right shoes for running, walking and gym workouts.
If you are a high blood pressure patient, choose light exercises. Strenuous exercise may elevate blood pressure.
If you have a foot problem, then go for swimming or cycling rather than brisk walking or jogging because it is easier on the foot. Sometimes doctors may recommend that you avoid swimming if they are worried about foot infections.
Avoid lifting anything heavy or weight training or bending your head below your waist toe touching if you have retinopathy.
Also keep a check on your heart rate. Here is how you can calculate your heart rate. Subtract your age from 220. This number is your target heart rate. Your heart rate while exercising should not exceed beyond 70% of this figure.

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