Benefits of Exercise
Exercise is the single most important self-care behavior that can make a difference in health and managing diabetes.
Evidence shows that every minute of exercise counts. If you can't fit 30 minutes of exercise all at once, break it up into smaller chunks. It does just as much good for your health as one long 30 minute session.
Evidence shows that every minute of exercise counts. If you can't fit 30 minutes of exercise all at once, break it up into smaller chunks. It does just as much good for your health as one long 30 minute session.
Being active is essential to staying healthy and managing diabetes. Some physical activity is better than none. Even small amounts of physical activity can help you gain some of the many health benefits below:
- Feel healthier
- Increase energy
- Lose or maintain weight
- Have fun with family and friends
- Lower blood glucose and A1C
- Lower blood pressure
- Improve cholesterol
- Improve heart function and sex life
- Reduce stress
- Prevent and treat depression
- Use insulin better
- Increase strength, endurance, and flexibility
- Keeps bones healthy and strong
- Sleep better at night
- Improve appearance
- Improve mood
- Improve memory
- Prevent falls
- Live longer (moderate activity can add two years to your life)
- Save money (fewer health issues)
What reasons speak to you? You'll be more likely to stick with an exercise plan if you find reasons why you want to be healthy.
This information is a summary from the "Your First Year with Diabetes" and is provided with the permission of the American Diabetes Association.
It is a comprehensive book and recommended by the American Diabetes Association for newly diagnosed individuals.
Click on the image to go to the American Diabetes Association bookstore.
Note: Care4life has no commercial interest in any of the books or resources it recommends.