Staying Active
If you don't already have a plan for physical activity, now is the time to start! Physical activity, along with diet and medication, can help you control your diabetes in many ways. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before starting a program with physical activity.
Being physically active is good because it may have the following effects:
- Burns calories by making the body use glucose, which helps lower blood sugar (glucose) levels
- Help you lose weight; losing weight may make your body more sensitive to the insulin you produce
- Improves circulation
- Reduces stress
- Improves your mood
- Increases bone strength
- Helps lower your risk of heart disease and cancer
- Helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure

You don't have to jog or attend aerobics classes to reap the benefits. Be more active at home, at work, and in your leisure time — it all counts. Think of ways you can spend less time sitting and more time moving. A pedometer, or step counter, is a great way to keep track of how many steps you take every day. Gradually increase your activity every day to keep a healthier lifestyle and feel better.
Check with your healthcare provider — he or she may recommend that you slowly start being physically active, for example, by walking for 10-15 minutes 3 days a week. As you begin to see the benefits of being active, your healthcare provider may recommend that you increase the length and intensity of your routine.
If you are taking a sulfonylurea, check your blood sugar more often and always have some carbohydrates on hand in case of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Refer to Tracking Your Blood Sugar for more information on how to manage hypoglycemia.
Setting your personal goals
Once you've made the decision to make healthy changes in your lifestyle, it is important to stay on track. Your healthcare provider will help you set activity plans, diet, medication, and general healthcare goals.
