Diabetes and Exercise

Avoid exercising when blood glucose is more than 250mg/dl and ketones are positive in urine.

Carry food or glucose tablets when undertaking exercise in case there are episodes of hypoglycemia.

Do not skip meals especially prior to exercise.

Take a quick-acting carbohydrate (sweetened tea or milk, regular soft drink) when blood glucose is less than100mg/dl or if one experiences symptoms of hypoglycemia - headaches, increased sweating, feeling of hunger, trembling or shakiness, rapid heart rate or palpitations, drowsiness and mental confusion.

Avoid exercise when blood glucose is more than 300mg/dl.

Avoid exercise outdoors on very hot or humid days. One can get heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Wear a hat or sunscreen - if necessary in such conditions.

In warm weather, dress in light-colored and loose-fitting cotton clothing.

To prevent dehydration, drink a cup of cold water before and after you exercise.

If exercising for longer than 30 minutes or if the workout leads to a lot of sweating drink water during the workout.

Always carry a diabetes identification card, duly filled, while exercising.

Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Avoid exercise at the peak action time of insulin.

Avoid injecting insulin in the muscle that is to be used for exercise.

Check with your health care team about the best time to exercise before commencing any physical activity.

Always use correct type of shoes to avoid injury and check them regularly for wear and tear

After exercise, check the feet for any blisters or sores.

Be aware of the warning signs of heart problems such as chest, left arm or jaw pain, dizziness, fainting and shortness of breath during exercise

Learn how to measure pulse rate so that a self-check can be done to look for any irregular pulse, especially if there is heart condition that has been diagnosed.