Impact of exercise

Summary

Exercise has a significant impact on diabetes prevention. Regular physical activity helps reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and can also be beneficial for individuals with pre diabetes and diabetes. Here are some of the key ways exercise positively affects helps.

It’s not just for diabetes

The benefits of exercise improve your whole body including your heart and joints.

Healthy mind

It can improve your mental health and help you be more productive at work and happier at home.

We know exercise is good, but how good is it really?

1. Improved Insulin Sensitivity. Exercise helps the body use insulin more effectively. It increases the sensitivity of cells to insulin, allowing them to take up glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream more efficiently. This helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of insulin resistance, a key factor in type 2 diabetes.

2. Weight Management. Exercise plays a crucial role in weight management. Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Regular physical activity helps burn calories and promotes weight loss or weight maintenance, reducing the risk of diabetes.

3. Reduced Abdominal Fat. Exercise, especially aerobic activities like walking, jogging, or cycling, can specifically target and reduce unhealthy abdominal fat. Abdominal fat is closely linked to insulin resistance and an increased risk of diabetes.

4. Lower Blood Pressure. Exercise helps lower blood pressure, which is essential for diabetes prevention. High blood pressure is a risk factor for various health issues, including heart disease and stroke, both of which are more common in people with diabetes.

5. Better Cardiovascular Health. Regular physical activity strengthens the heart and improves overall cardiovascular health. It reduces the risk of heart disease, which can be a complication of diabetes.

6. Enhanced Blood Lipid Profile. Exercise can increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels and decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. It also helps lower triglyceride levels, leading to a healthier blood lipid profile and reducing the risk of heart-related problems in people with diabetes.

7. Increased Muscle Mass. Strength training exercises, like weightlifting, promote muscle growth and maintenance. Having more muscle mass improves insulin sensitivity and contributes to better glucose regulation in the body.

8. Stress Reduction. Exercise is a natural stress reliever. Managing stress is crucial because high stress levels can lead to unhealthy eating habits and lifestyle choices, increasing the risk of diabetes.9. Positive Impact on Sleep: Regular physical activity can improve sleep quality. Good sleep is essential for overall health and helps maintain balanced blood sugar levels.

10. Lifestyle Reinforcement. Engaging in regular exercise often leads to other healthy lifestyle choices, such as adopting a balanced diet and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption. These lifestyle factors collectively reduce the risk of diabetes.

Remember, before starting any exercise program, especially if you have any health concerns, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They can guide you on the right exercise plan tailored to your needs and ensure it’s safe for you.

Regular physical activity, combined with other healthy lifestyle habits, plays a vital role in preventing diabetes and promoting overall well-being.