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When you have diabetes, it’s important to get regular exercise. You can walk, swim, play sports, ride a bike, or do other activities you enjoy.
Your body turns food into sugar (glucose), which you need for energy. When you have diabetes, sugar builds up in your blood. This raises your blood sugar.
Your body uses sugar when you exercise. Regular exercise can help you manage your blood sugar by lowering it.
Exercising safely when you have diabetes
Talk to your doctor about how and when to exercise. Also ask your doctor what blood sugar range is safe for you when you exercise.
Check your blood sugar before and after exercise. If your blood sugar is less than 90 mg/dL before exercise, you may need to eat a carbohydrate snack first.
Be careful when you exercise if your blood sugar is too low. Keep some quick-sugar food with you.
Don’t exercise if your blood sugar is very high. If your blood sugar is too high, exercising can be dangerous. Ask your doctor what level is too high for you to exercise.
Try to exercise at about the same time each day. This may help keep your blood sugar steady. If you want to exercise more, slowly increase how hard or long you exercise.
Have someone with you when you exercise. You may need help if your blood sugar drops too low.
Take care of your feet. Wear socks and shoes that fit well. Check your feet for injuries, such as blisters.
Current as of: October 25, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
