Can enhance glucose utilization. Can decrease risk for cardiovascular disease. Can decrease or eliminate the need for insulin or oral agents in many patients. Evening activity can help control AM hyperglycemia for some with type 2 diabetes. In people with type 2 diabetes, regular activity, even without weight loss, can greatly enhance normalization of blood sugar.
Stress tests are often necessary to evaluate the safety of some activities for people with diabetes.
Insulin absorption may be increased if injected into an area that was recently used in an activity. Avoid heavy weight lifting, scuba diving, activities which require the head to be lower than the waist, and jarring activities such as jogging or racquetball. Nonweight bearing activities may be preferable, well fitting shoes are crucial, stretching is important but be cautious of over stretching. Excessive arm movements, especially over the head can cause dramatic elevations in blood pressure for some people. Most common time for hypoglycemia development is 6-15 hours after activity.