Got type 1 diabetes? Exercise is your new BFF. But don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be a one-size-fits-all deal.
A new study found that men and women with type 1 diabetes might want to hit the gym a little differently. Researchers from Universidade Federal do Vale do Sao Francisco and Staffordshire University found that tailoring exercise routines can help individuals with type 1 diabetes maintain optimal blood sugar control.
The study, published in The American Journal of Cardiology, emphasises the importance of exercise for people with type 1 diabetes (T1D), who often face challenges due to concerns about hypoglycemia. Dr Pooya Soltani from Staffordshire University highlighted that the study’s findings can help individuals overcome these concerns and incorporate exercise into their daily routines.
Why is exercise important for those with type 1 diabetes
According to Dr Srinivas Kandula, Consultant Endocrinologist at CARE Hospitals, Nampally, Hyderabad, continuous aerobic exercises are especially beneficial for individuals with T1D, helping to enhance insulin sensitivity, control blood glucose levels, and support cardiovascular health.
Improved Blood Glucose Control: Continuous aerobic exercise increases insulin sensitivity, helping muscles use glucose more efficiently. This helps stabilise blood sugar levels, a critical aspect of T1D management.
Cardiovascular Benefits: Individuals with T1D are at a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases. Aerobic exercises such as walking, jogging, and swimming improve heart and lung health and reduce the risk of heart-related issues.
How to determine the right amount of exercise? (Photo: Getty Images)
Why do exercise recommendations differ for men and women
Due to differences in body composition and hormonal fluctuations, exercise recommendations vary for men and women, explained Dr Kandula. Women with T1D might experience more fluctuations in insulin sensitivity due to menstrual cycles, affecting their glucose levels differently than men.
Story continues below this ad
For guys, short bursts of exercise can be a good starting point when blood sugar is low, according to the study. But when it’s high, steady-paced exercise like running can help keep things balanced.
For women, it’s a bit more flexible. Both short bursts and steady-paced workouts can work.
How to determine the right amount of exercise?
Exercising with type 1 diabetes can be challenging due to the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It requires careful management of insulin levels, carbohydrate intake, and blood glucose monitoring, Dr Kandula explained. Finding the right balance between insulin and food intake can be tricky, as overdoing insulin reduction may lead to hyperglycemia, while inadequate food intake could cause low blood sugar.
The right amount of exercise varies depending on factors like age, fitness level, and individual diabetes management. However, Dr Kandula highlights the importance of finding a “sweet spot” for physical activity:
Story continues below this ad
- Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week (e.g., brisk walking, cycling).
- High-intensity workouts should be approached with caution, and glucose levels must be closely monitored to prevent complications.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
