422 million people, worldwide were diabetic in 2014. There are three different forms, Type 1 which is not preventable, Type 2 the more common and associated with lifestyle behaviours (diet and exercise) and Gestational Diabetes. 

T2DM basics when considering exercise

If you have recently been diagnosed with diabetes, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed by all the information out there, so I’m hoping to give the basics and direct you to the GOOD resources that are out there.

Firstly, we know exercise is an efficient and safe way to manage diabetes. Often, we have barriers to undertaking exercise and reasons as to why we ‘can’t’, but, now is the time to really face those barriers, knock them down and get your health on track.

Exercise, how much, how often?
Well, lets start with 150 minutes per week.
That’s 30 minutes over 5 days of moderate intensity exercise, alternatively you could squeeze this in’t 75 minutes, but the intensity needs to be classified as ‘high’ to get the benefits!

How can I exercise?
However you like, any type of physical activity (golf and fishing unfortunately aren’t ‘intense’ enough, sorry) that gets your heart rate up. Preferably, exercise that is rhythmic and uses the whole body. Check out here for more information.

Some other considerations are hypoglycaemic (low) and hyperglycaemic (high) signs and symptoms, with how your body reacts to both your medication and an increase in activity – your glucose levels may respond different to your neighbours, so don’t compare, speak to a professional for best and individualised advice.

If you’re diagnosed, your GP may refer you to a range of practitioners, including a dietitian, podiatrists, optometrist, endocrinologist, diabetes educator and/or an exercise physiologist (like me!).
These appointments are all super important to flag any concerns and ensure you know how to manage your health.

Diabetes is a complex condition with many factors to consider – but, the more you know and understand the easier it is to manage and the less complex it becomes.

It’s your body, take care of it.