The summer is a wonderful time to revisit some New Year’s resolutions and re-evaluate your health goals for the year. It’s also a great time to get out there and expend some energy.
I’m definitely a summer person – I like the longer days, waking up to sunshine and being outdoors. But I’m definitely not an Olympic athlete! I prefer hiking over weekends with my family and friends and a good competitive game of beach bats. Thankfully, our health doesn’t demand that we all win a gold medal – in fact, it is far better to engage in regular, moderate exercise in order to gain the physical and psychological benefits of physical activity.
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Primarily, exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity, allowing your body to better utilize glucose for energy and potentially reducing the amount of insulin required.
Additionally, exercise can help lower blood sugar levels, improve cardiovascular health, boost mood, and increase energy levels.
Whether it’s walking, jogging, swimming, cycling, or dancing, choose activities that you find enjoyable and can commit to on a regular basis.
Aim for a combination of cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and flexibility exercises to promote overall health and well-being.
Set realistic exercise goals that align with your current fitness level, preferences, and schedule.
Gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts over time as your fitness improves. Be flexible and willing to adapt your exercise routine as needed to accommodate changes in your health or lifestyle.
Change things up by taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking or cycling to work, or doing household chores like gardening or cleaning.
Have you ever seen the IDS staff during a staff meeting? Most of them are walking on a treadmill while talking online! A fantastic way to keep active whilst working! Break up long periods of sitting with short bursts of activity throughout the day to keep your body moving and blood sugar levels in check.
By making physical activity a priority in your daily life, you can reap the many benefits of exercise while managing diabetes and working toward your weight loss goals.
Consider some of these suggestions and see if you can make some important changes in your lifestyle.
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Please contact the office if you’re keen to get started putting some of these ideas into action and taking the first step toward a healthier lifestyle.
Learn more about the Downsizing with Diabetes program run by Dr Paula Diab (PhD, CDCES), and let’s start on this journey together.
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