When it comes to having type 2 diabetes, which is on the rise in this country, the question is whether exercise can help. And to what extent should people with type 2 diabetes work out.
Are you ready for some sobering statistics.
Right now the American Diabetes Association estimates that the total number of Americans expected to have diabetes will be more than 30 million by 2030.
The silver lining (if there is one)?
Why exercise helps…
Roughly 90% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.
What’s more, lifestyle changes and help to prevent, and in some cases reverse the course of this disease.
How can this happen?
With type 2 diabetes your body produces some insulin but, for some reason, the body does not effectively use it. This is known as insulin resistance, and it prohibits glucose from entering the cells of your muscle. Because of this glucose levels rise, and if left unchecked for extended periods of time the elevated glucose levels can lead to:
- heart disease
- kidney failure
- blindness
- nerve dysfunction
Unlike type 1 diabetes (which seems to be an autoimmune disease), type 2 diabetes is strongly linked to lifestyle factors, especially diet and exercise.
Additionally, the risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes are:
- family history
- other cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol
- obesity
- a sedentary lifestyle
The good news is that the same recommendations and techniques that are used for prevention of this disease (a healthy diet and regular exercise) can be used to control and possibly reverse its progression. In fact, the latest research suggests that exercise is the primary way to prevent, control and treat of diabetes because it decreases insulin resistance.
Following regular exercise training, cells can better respond to insulin and appropriately take up glucose out of the blood.
Exercise also helps to decrease risk of cardiovascular disease by:
- decreasing blood pressure
- cholesterol levels
- body fat
In fact, for every 10 pounds of weight loss a person will experience a 20 percent improvement in insulin sensitivity.
Whether or not you have type 2 diabetes or have some (or all) of the risk factors associated with this disease, isn’t it time to develop better habits for a healthier lifestyle?
If you are looking for more than a traditional gym membership, consider a more holistic approach to wellness…
Discover the FitMD difference today
If you live in Westchester, NY discover an holistic New York fitness program.
Our FitMD program combines supportive nutrition counseling with personal trainers in Westchester helping you to lose weight, get in better shape, and lead a healthier lifestyle.
For more information click the links above, or give us a call at 914-721-0071 today.
After all, it’s your health…