Exercise Lowers Diabetes Risk - But See A Doctor First

Are you over 35 years of age? Do you have type 2 diabetes mellitus? Are you at high-risk for cardiovascular disease? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should consider beginning an exercise program.

Although there are many drugs available to treat diabetes and vascular complications, exercise has been demonstrated to be a safe, effective method to reduce risk of heart disease and diabetic complications. Findings from clinical studies also suggest that physical activity may delay or prevent the development of type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic medical condition that is associated with many risk factors for heart attack including elevated glucose, high blood pressure, high LDL ("bad") cholesterol, and low HDL ("good") cholesterol.

People with diabetes are often (but not always) overweight. Scientists and doctors have learned over the years that if people exercise, they can gain better control of their glucose levels, improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels, decrease risk of a heart attack, and live a longer, healthier life.

However, there are special considerations for people with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes who are going to begin an exercise program. The American Diabetes Association recommends that people with diabetes undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation with diagnostic studies before embarking on a fitness program.

If you have diabetes and one or more of the following risk factors, your physician may recommend an exercise stress test before starting your exercise program:

-Age 35 or older
-Age 25 or older and have had type 2 diabetes for over 10 years or type 1 diabetes for over 15 years
-Any risk factor for coronary artery disease
Proliferative retinopathy or nephropathy
-Peripheral vascular disease

Scientists have recognized that people with diabetes and an abnormal stress test are at higher risk for dying and having a heart attack in the future. Therefore it is important that you consult a physician before beginning an exercise program.

The author is Managing Editor of Diabetes And Vascular Education (DAVE.md) an online resource for healthcare professionals, patients and others seeking the latest news and information on diabetes and vascular disease. Under the direction of an internationally-recognized editorial board, DAVE.md is committed to being an independent, unbiased educational resource on diabetic and vascular complications. Visit Diabetes And Vascular Education to learn more about diabetes ways to reduce risk of heart attack, and practical advice on exercise.