Regular exercise is equally if not more important. During and for several hours after exercise, extra energy is expended by the body. As a result, excess sugar is removed from the blood, and blood sugar levels are reduced. This effect can last as long as 18 to 24 hours after an exercise session. Being overweight often results in the body's cells becoming resistant to insulin.
Regular exercise helps people reach and maintain a healthy body weight.
If healthy habits are not practiced, this resistance can lead to further weight gain. A dangerous cycle quickly develops which, if not broken, often leads to Type II Diabetes as well as several other health problems. Combining regular exercise with a healthy diet not only helps to control Type II Diabetes, but can also help to prevent it from ever developing. Exercise plays a role in delaying or preventing the onset of large blood vessel and heart disease, the leading killer of people with Diabetes. Aerobic exercise helps to strengthen the heart and burn fat.