Living with Diabetes

Unlike other diseases where your involvement may be limited to taking your medication on time, you play an active part in controlling your diabetes. Your doctor is telling you to change your diet, lose weight and exercise - all at the same time! It may seem overwhelming, but following is some very simple advice to help you get started.

Exercise provides important benefits for everyone, especially for people with diabetes.

The benefits include:

• Lowering sugar levels for up to 24 hours
• Stimulating blood flow - since many people with diabetes have poor circulation, exercise can help blood get to your organs and to your arms and legs
• Burning body fat and building muscle -- not only will you use up calories, but you will build muscle, which burns more calories than fat
• Reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease - by reducing the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood
• Lowering blood pressure
• Relieving stress - a vigorous workout will help you have more energy all day