Diabetes is a challenge. However, the enjoyable challenge of exercise can help the majority of diabetics manage their disease. Exercise can directly improve diabetes, as well as increase your overall health and help you ward off future complications. To provide these benefits, it must be properly done.

If you are diabetic you should talk with your doctor before beginning an exercise program. Demand reasonable suggestions and definite answers. You must understand what exercises are safe for you and what things should limit your exercise. This varies between individuals and it may vary for the same person according to their daily condition.

The level of blood glucose rises, for example, in response to exercise. But how much and how rapidly differs from person to person and day to day. A high blood glucose level, say 300 mg/dL can rise even higher with vigorous exercise. Those with Type 1 diabetes who have a fasting glucose level above 250 mg/dL will likely have ketones in the urine. Exercise can raise that further, producing a dangerous condition called diabetic ketoacidosis.

A contrasting condition- -hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) can occur because of insulin treatments. Eating carbohydrates will bring the blood glucose back to normal, but this can also lead to weight gain. With time, excess body-fat can worsen the condition of pre-diabetics causing them to develop diabetes.

So begin all exercise programs cautiously and gradually. Be realistic. As a diabetic, you may have to start at a lower level than those without diabetes. However, you will still benefit from a regular exercise program. You must simply remember to monitor you condition carefully, like senior citizens or other people who have limits on what activity they can safely do. Exercise as you safely can.

Don’t expect immediate results. Regardless of your health condition, it is easy to get discouraged if you have unrealistic expectations. Many diabetics have been sedentary and this has contributed to their condition. It is more difficult to begin exercise if you are not used to activity. You will be sore and stiff and tempted to give up exercise. Don’t! Beginning slowly and building up your strength will eliminate this temptation. Exercise must become part of your routine, not just an easy fix for a special problem.

Begin by walking at least three times a week. Swimming is also good for the heart and easy on the joints.

If you feel too fatigued to begin, talk with your doctor. The problem might be low blood sugar. An appropriate snack before exercise may help. Sometimes a change in medication is needed.

It is important to monitor your blood glucose levels during your workout, since they can change quickly with exercise. A device which monitors your blood sugar level and also times your routine is available. Regardless of the monitoring method you use, be ready to stop if your body shows signs of distress. If you are dizzy or nauseous or experience other unusual symptoms it is time to quit and cool down.