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May 28, 2023

Things to Consider When Exercising with Diabetes


Importance of Exercise

Exercise is extremely important in the control and reversal of type II diabetes. With a proper exercise plan, you can improve insulin sensitivity, better manage blood glucose, and efficiently rid yourself of the many toxins being released through weight loss.

That being said, it is still important to take extra precautions with any new exercise routine, and especially when you are managing type II diabetes.



Top 3 considerations

when exercising with type II diabetes:

  1. If you’re taking insulin or other medications that can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), test your blood sugar 15-30 minutes prior to exercising.

    1. Pre-exercise glucose levels:

      1. <100mg/dL is too low, eat 15 grams of a simple carbohydrate.

      2. 100-250 mg/dL is normal.

      3. >250 mg/dL is too high, you must check for ketones in your urine at this point.

  2. During exercise, it is important to be aware of any symptoms that your blood sugar may be dropping too low such as weakness, shakiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, and confusion. If you are measuring your blood sugar, be aware if it drops below 70 mg/dL and have an easy carbohydrate source handy for if it does.

  3. You should STOP exercising if you experience any of the following:

    1. Sudden headache

    2. Chest pain

    3. High anxiety

    4. Blood glucose less than 70 mg/dL

    5. Abnormally high blood pressure (160/100 mmHg)

    6. Racing or pounding heart

    7. Dizziness, lightheadedness

    8. Significant fatigue

"If you want to get anywhere, you have to start somewhere." Frank Sonnenberg

It is important to speak with a healthcare professional to get you started if you are new to exercise or have been sedentary for a long time to avoid injuries or complications. It may be recommended for you to work with a physical therapist to get you started with exercising safely and to learn proper form and mechanics to continue on your own.




*Our articles are intended to be educational on general guidelines for each disease process, not an individualized treatment plan. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding changes to your current lifestyle, fitness, nutrition, medications or if you have any further questions.

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