Tuesday: Health Tip of the Day - Diabetes & Exercise

Exercise is also known as physical activity and includes anything that gets you moving, such as walking, dancing, or working in the yard.

You can earn the benefits of being physically active without going to a gym, playing sports, or using fancy equipment.

When you're physically fit, you have the strength, flexibility, and energy needed for your daily activities. Being physically active helps you feel better physically and mentally.

Physical activity can lower your blood glucose (sugar), blood pressure, and cholesterol. It also reduces your risk for heart disease and stroke, relieves stress, and strengthens your heart, muscles, and bones. If you're trying to lose weight, a combination of physical activity and wise food choices can help you reach your target weight and maintain it.

Physical activity helps to improve your health in a number of other ways as well.

Having diabetes need not confine you to the couch or park bench. But before you begin an exercise program, speak with your doctor.

Doctors ready to discuss your health and exercise

The American Diabetes Association offers these suggestions before you start working out:

·         Talk to your doctor about any physical problems, including chest pain, or bone or joint problems.

·         Talk to your doctor about how exercise may affect your medications.

·         Track your progress; keep an exercise log or use a pedometer.

·         Set realistic goals as part of your exercise plan.

·         Always have water and a snack on hand, and make sure you stay hydrated.

·         Wear a medical ID tag that identifies you as diabetic.

For more information about Diabetes and Exercise, please visit the American Diabetes Association at http://www.diabetes.org./ Photo/Getty.