The process which converts the food you eat into the energy your body uses is far from simple. After every meal, the carbohydrate content of the food is broken down into a simpler form of sugar, which is also known as glucose, which is then carried to the different parts of your body via the bloodstream. Your cells then get to work, transforming this glucose into energy which they use to function. However, if your body is bereft of the insulin it requires in metabolizing this glucose, or if your cells do not respond to the insulin which the pancreas secretes, a disease known as Diabetes sets in which is one of the most widespread of its kind in today's world.



Diabetes is one of the most devastating diseases of the modern world, as many of the complications it leads to are far reaching and can even result in death. However, there is a brighter side to the story. This disease can be easily keep under control by simply adhering to a few basic precautions which include limiting your meals and keeping your meal times regular, being meticulous about your medication and keeping a stringent check over your blood glucose levels. Apart from these remedial measures, there is also the element of exercise, which plays a significant role in thwarting the more distressing symptoms of Diabetes.

Obesity is one of the most prominent causes of Diabetes and can aggravate it if not corrected in time. And regular exercise in moderate doses allows you to do just that. Your exercise routine should include some amount of aerobic activity. Now this can be as interesting as you want it to be. From signing up for a low-impact aerobics class, to even a whole-hearted game of tennis, the options are numerous, and very exciting. It is recommended that you indulge in some form of aerobic exercise for about 30 minutes a session and weave in 5 such sessions during the week. And if you are pressed for time, you could even break down these 30 minutes into 10 minute sessions through the day.

Diabetes also affects the nerves of your feet, which may make it painful for you to indulge in activities which are hard on your feet. If your doctor advises you to keep away from these forms of exercise, then you can try bicycling, either outdoors or indoors, swimming, water aerobics and even rowing which are all great calorie-burners, but go easy on your feet. You can dabble in as varied an exercise regime as you want to, which will also keep you more motivated towards maintaining your fitness program. Strength training is another important aspect of exercise as it helps you build bone and muscle mass, allowing you to burn those calories away, even when your body's at rest. You can either register for a strength training class to get started or invest in your own set of weights, elastic bands or plastic tubes and set up a workout regime of your own.

It is essential you seek the counsel of your physician before you devise your fitness program, as the recommended activity levels as well as the kind of exercises which are most appropriate for you are very important considerations to make. Begin with light exercises and then progress to more complex ones as your body gets used to the increased levels of activity and grows stronger. Allow yourself plenty of room to improvise and make up for a workout session you miss, or if you're looking for a change. Keep a constant tab on your glucose levels before and after you exercise so that you know how your blood glucose is responding to exercise. Stop exercising at once if you begin to feel weak, dizzy and hungry as these are the first symptoms of Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. You can treat this condition with a few glucose pills or half a cup or fruit juice, monitor your glucose levels after every 15 minutes and repeat the treatment if necessary. Never exercise if your blood glucose drops below 70, which could cause serious complications.

Many victims of Type One Diabetes are also particularly susceptible to Ketoacidosis, where toxic substances called ketones build up in your blood stream. If you happen to be diagnosed with this condition, then it is advisable to refrain from any kind of physical activity, as doing so will only exacerbate this condition. Munching on a light snack before you begin to exercise also helps you keep Hypoglycemia at bay.

The benefits of regular exercise are not just limited to watching over your blood sugar levels in fact, exercise is also the most recommended stress-handling therapy. Making your day-to-day life as active as you can also helps you avert the more severe ailments which afflict you as your body ages. The first step to a healthier and more fulfilling life begins with that all-important call to your physician. Start today and watch your life transform before your very eyes!