Stay Active
In addition to healthy eating, regular physical activity is very important for people with diabetes. Just 30 minutes a day of activity (even in three 10-minute bursts) can help you manage your diabetes. So you can get physical while you clean, shop, garden, or take the stairs. You should talk to your doctor first about which physical activities are right for you.
Choose something you enjoy doing
There are lots of activities you can do around your home to burn calories. You don't have to join a gym or run a marathon to see results. Choose something you like and stay with it. Read these tips on some physical activities you may enjoy.
Regular physical activity can help:
- Manage your weight
- Improve your blood pressure
- Strengthen your heart
- Improve blood circulation
- Improve cholesterol
- Improve your body's response to insulin
- Lower blood sugar levels
Seven ways to stay active
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
- At work, take a walk with a co-worker to discuss ideas, instead of using the phone.
- Sightsee in new cities - or your own town - by walking or biking.
- Participate in a charity walk like those listed at www.diabetes.org.
- Volunteer to walk your neighbor's dog or sweep their sidewalk.
- Plan family outings that include hiking or swimming.
- Volunteer at a hospital, local school or library. It will keep you out and about - and moving.
Be sure to check your blood sugar levels before and after exercise. If you exercise for over 30 minutes, check your sugar during this activity. Remember to carry glucose tablets with you in case your blood sugar gets low.
Visit www.diabetes.com to learn more about how to stay active.
You should first talk to your doctor about which physical activities are right for you.

