A recent study by scientists from University Federal by Vale by Sao Francisco (UNIVASF, Brazil) and Staffordshire University (UK) shows that adjusting exercise habits can help people with type 1 diabetes control the disease better.
This study, published in the American Journal of Cardiology, highlights the importance of exercise for people with type 1 diabetes, as they often face concerns about hypoglycemia.
Dr Pooya Soltani from Staffordshire University believes that the findings in the study can help people overcome anxiety and incorporate exercise into their daily routine.
Why Aerobic Exercise is Important for People with Type 1 Diabetes
According to Dr. Srini Kandvasula, consultant endocrinologist at CARE Hospital in Hyderabad (India), continuous aerobic exercises are especially beneficial for people with type 1 diabetes. They help increase insulin sensitivity, control blood sugar and support heart health.
Better blood sugar control: Aerobic exercises help increase insulin sensitivity, helping muscles use glucose more effectively, thereby stabilizing blood sugar levels - an important factor in disease management.
Cardiovascular benefits: People with type 1 diabetes are at higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Exercises such as walking, jogging and swimming help improve heart and lung health, while reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems.
Different exercise recommendations for men and women
Due to differences in body composition and hormonal fluctuations, exercise recommendations for men and women with type 1 diabetes will be different.
Women may experience more fluctuations in insulin sensitivity due to the menstrual cycle, affecting glucose control.
Men: Short exercises can be a good choice for low blood sugar. However, when blood sugar is high, regular-paced exercises such as running can help balance.
Women: Both short workouts and regular exercises can be effective, depending on changes in the body throughout the cycle.
How to determine the right amount of exercise?
Exercise for people with type 1 diabetes can be difficult, especially at the risk of hypoglycemia.
Dr. Kandula says controlling insulin intake, carbohydrate intake, and monitoring blood sugar levels are very important.
Finding a balance between insulin and food intake is a decisive factor, as excessive insulin reduction can lead to increased blood sugar, while insufficient food intake can cause hypoglycemia.
The appropriate amount of exercise depends on factors such as age, fitness level and medical condition of each person.
However, Dr. Kandula recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week (such as brisk walking or cycling).
High-intensity exercises need to be done carefully and glucose levels must be closely monitored to avoid complications.
