Cycling and Diabetes

Living with diabetes means paying close attention to your blood sugar levels. That means monitoring what you eat and drink to keep your levels stable. Did you know that regular exercise can also help? In fact, one of the best things you can do to control your diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes, is to control your weight. Cycling with diabetes is something you may not have previously considered. The truth is that it can be a great choice. Keep reading to find out more.

Controlling Your Weight

Being overweight is a factor in the development of diabetes. For people at risk, a consistent cardiovascular workout program can help burn calories and keep weight in a healthy range. Cycling for diabetes is a solution that many have found success with because it’s fun and it’s not as high impact as some other types of cardio. Not only can cycling help control diabetes if you already have it, but it might also prevent it from developing if you’re at risk.

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Cycling and Blood Sugar

Cycling with diabetes can be just what you’ve been looking for to control your blood sugar levels. When you’re physically active, your cells are more efficient and absorbing glucose, which improves insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels. This is true for virtually any kind of exercise, but cycling is a good choice for many people.

Tips for Cycling with Diabetes

Because cycling is a form of cardiovascular exercise, you will need to pay attention to your blood sugar, which can do down with prolonged exercise. Be sure you have a source of fast-acting carbs with you in case you need to stabilize your blood sugar during your ride. Start slow and gradually increase your speed and intensity. This keeps you motivated and also prevents injury.

Foot Complications

Cycling is a viable way to help prevent some of the foot-related complications that may arise with diabetes. It helps boost blood flow to the area, which may help prevent diabetic foot and can help heal wounds that are already present on the foot. Be sure you choose comfortable and sturdy cycling shoes to protect your feet and get the most benefit from each ride.

The benefits of cycling for diabetes are many and you’re bound to enjoy learning to ride a bike. You can use a stationary bike at the gym or at home, but you will also get additional stress-relieving benefits by taking a ride outdoors on a traditional bicycle. No matter which method you choose, be sure you talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program.