Physical activity is crucial for leading a healthy life. Exercise helps maintain a proper body weight, keep fit and prevent disease.
But what do we do when we are unfortunate enough to be afflicted by disease? Say for instance, diabetes?
Do we give up all hope in physical activity and put our faith solely in the capabilities of medication?
The obvious answer is no. In fact, both the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Council on Exercise recently praised exercise and its benefits in combating and controlling both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
According to ACE, when dealing with type 1 diabetes, physical activity primarily helps by increasing insulin receptor sensitivity, reducing the risk of coronary artery disease and improving functional capacity.
ACE also states exercise is vital for type 2 diabetics, since it reduces both weight and cholesterol levels and thus the risk for heart disease.
In fact, according to the Center for Disease Control, being physically active can prevent blood-flow problems, which can reduce the resk of heart disease, as well as the risk of nerve damage. These health problems can be prevalent among those who suffer from diabetes.
ACSM also recently concluded that, although physical activity is underused in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, its role in managing the disease is undeniable and should therefore be used in any case where the individual is able to regularly perform moderate levels of physical activity.
However, diabetics should not follow just any exercise plan. As with any at-risk population, it is important to consult a doctor to obtain permission before starting a workout routine.
Certain workout regimens that are suitable for the general population are unsafe for people with diabetes.
ACE also recommends that diabetics use the following guidelines when partaking in physical activity.
Trent Scott is a junior in nutrition and exercise science and an American Council on Exercise certified personal trainer at Peters Recreational Complex. Please send comments to sports@spub.ksu.edu.
