Diabetes is a chronic disease in which the body either can't produce or use insulin effectively. Insulin is a hormone that helps cells to use blood sugar for energy. Knowing how exercise affects diabetes is important.

Exercise is helpful to almost everyone. Regular exercise improves fitness. For diabetics, a fit body can help to regulate blood sugar. Food intake, exercise, rest and insulin all work together.

In Type I diabetes, insulin is missing from the body, so it is taken by injection. The diabetes should be under good control before exercising. Test you blood sugar. If your sugar, or glucose, is over 250, wait to exercise. If your glucose is lower than 250, exercise will help to lower it more. When a person with Type I diabetes exercises, the amount of insulin needed may go down, or the amount of food eaten may go up. Doing the same type and amount of exercise on a routine basis will help you to control your diabetes.

In Type II diabetes, insulin injections are usually not required. Exercise will help lower glucose, cholesterol, blood pressure and control weight. Adults who exercise decrease their risk for this type of diabetes.

Exercise in diabetes does have some problems. Low blood sugars can happen with too much exercise, or not enough food. Usually a snack is needed when a person with diabetes exercises. If you have eye disease or nerve damage, you may need to avoid some kinds of exercises. Walking, swimming or stationary cycling are fine for most people.

Be sure to wear the proper shoes, socks and clothing while exercising. This way you can avoid blisters or chafing which could result in an infection. Routine exercise will help you feel fit and healthy. Call your healthcare provider if you have difficulty regulating your insulin while exercising. To learn more, call your local Diabetes Association, or call (800) 232-3472.

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