Have Fun to Lower Blood Sugar

Have you ever been told to exercise to help control your blood sugar if you have diabetes? Did you know that for every minute you exercise, you will lower your blood sugar about 1 point.

Unfortunately, exercise is seen as the bad “E” word. For a lot of individuals exercise is seen as work or something that you have to do.

Studies have shown that some individuals reward themselves with unhealthy foods after they exercise compared to individuals who increased their activity while having fun. It is more pleasurable to take a walk to view the scenery, then to feel like we are punishing ourselves with a 30 minute walk. If we view the scenery while walking we have already rewarded ourselves. Individuals, who fell that their walk is a punishment, may use food as a reward.

So how can you move your body in a fun way?

• Distract yourself by listening to music or book on tape while walking, jogging or riding bike.
• Join a club for walking, hiking, or biking
• Walk a new route, walk with a friend, enjoy the scenery (colors of trees or window shop)
• Technical fun. Try dancing or fitness games on PlayStation2, Wii or Wii Fit.
• Turn up the music and dance in your house
• Ride stationary bike while watching TV or reading a book
• Listen to music during your workout. Each song is 3-4 minutes. So after you listen to 6-7 songs you have exercised for 30 minutes.
• Do a sport/activity exercise like tennis, golf, swimming, bike riding or bowling

If you think of physical activity as a chore, it will be difficult to set aside time to be active. Instead, think of it as a break from your daily schedule.

Having fun is also a great stress reducer. Remember that stress can also raise your blood sugar level.

To learn more about managing diabetes, consider attending one of the many educational opportunities available at Wayne HealthCare. Education is provided individually and in group classes.

Group classes meet once a week for four weeks. The cost is $40 for the series of four classes. The next group classes will be held October 1, 8, 15, and 22, 2014 from 9am to 11am. Pre-registration for the classes is required.

A Free Diabetes Education Program “Understanding Your Numbers: Logs and Labs” will be held on October 14, 2014 from 2pm to 3pm.

For more information regarding the programs offered by Wayne HealthCare Diabetes Self Management Program please call 937-547-5750.