Diabetes is one of the most common health issues worldwide today. Researchers anticipate some 700 million people could develop diabetes by 2040.
However, there is hope in sight. It is thought that physical activities such as walking will help to alleviate the negative effects of diabetes. A recent study published on Antioxidants shows that walking can be a beneficial activity for people with diabetes, as it can help alleviate some of the negative effects of the condition.
Research shows that regular physical activity like walking helps your body’s cells become more sensitive to insulin. This means that your cells can use insulin more efficiently to take up glucose from the bloodstream, leading to better blood sugar control.
By lowering blood sugar levels and promoting glucose uptake in the muscles, the insulin action in your body is improved. Walking can be especially beneficial after meals when blood sugar levels tend to rise.
Why Diabetics Should Engage in Walking
Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Walking is a cardiovascular exercise that can improve heart health, strengthen the heart muscle, and enhance circulation, reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Walking is a low-impact exercise that can aid in weight management or weight loss. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for managing type 2 diabetes, as excess body weight can worsen insulin resistance.
Regular walking can also help to reduce stress levels, which is beneficial for people with diabetes. Stress hormones can affect blood sugar levels, so managing stress through exercise can have a positive impact on diabetes management.
Walking can help lower high blood pressure, which is another common complication of diabetes. Controlling blood pressure is essential to reduce the risk of kidney disease and other diabetic complications.
Engaging in physical activity like walking can improve mood and promote better sleep. Subsequently, you enhance overall well-being, which can indirectly benefit diabetes management.
Diabetes Management Plan
When incorporating walking into your diabetes management plan, it’s essential to keep a few things in mind:
Consult your healthcare provider: Before starting any exercise program, consult with your doctor, especially if you have any existing health conditions or complications related to diabetes.
Set realistic goals: Begin with achievable goals and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your walking sessions.
Be consistent: Regularity is crucial for reaping the benefits of walking. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, spread over at least three days.
Monitor your blood sugar: Regularly check your blood sugar levels, especially before and after walking, to understand how it affects your levels.
Remember that walking alone may not be sufficient to manage diabetes, so it’s essential to combine it with a well-balanced diet, medication (if prescribed), and other aspects of diabetes care as recommended by your healthcare team.
