Diabetes is a common condition that affects more than four million people in the UK, and 90 per cent of all cases are caused by type 2 diabetes. The condition is caused by the pancreas not producing enough of the hormone insulin, or the body not reacting to insulin. Without enough insulin, the body struggles to convert sugar in the blood into useable energy. You could lower your risk of diabetes symptoms by simply going for a fast-paced walk.
People with diabetes are encouraged to exercise regularly
Diabetes.co.uk
Power walking could help to better control your blood sugar levels, according to medical website Diabetes.co.uk.
It’s a type of aerobic activity that could also lower patients’ risk of cardiovascular diseases – a complication of high blood sugar.
Aerobic exercises use the large muscle groups of the body. Moving your muscles increases the amount off sugar the body uses, which subsequently lowers blood sugar levels.
“People with diabetes are encouraged to exercise regularly for better blood sugar control and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases,” it said.
“The reason for this is that muscles which are working use more glucose than those that are resting.
“Additional benefits of exercise include a healthier heart, better weight control and stress management.
“Aerobic activity at moderate intensity basically means exercising at a level that raises your heart rate and makes you sweat.
“This includes a multitude of sports. For example, fast-paced walking, bike riding, and water aerobics.”
But, raising your heart rate doesn’t necessarily count as doing exercise, it added.
Some household chores, including cutting the grass or cleaning your home, don’t count as exercise.
Everyone should aim to do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity every week, said the NHS.
Many people may have diabetes without even knowing it, as the symptoms don’t necessarily make you feel unwell.
Common diabetes symptoms include passing more urine than normal, blurred vision, and having cuts or wounds that take longer to heal than normal.
Speak to a doctor if you’re worried about the symptoms of diabetes, or if you think you may be at risk.
A quick blood test should be enough to reveal whether you have diabetes, or not.
Diagnosing the condition early is crucial, as diabetes raises the risk of heart disease and strokes.
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