7 Safety Tips for Diabetic Athletes
1. Ask your doctor what type of exercise is best and work with him or her to devise an exercise plan. Some people who have complications or have been sedentary for a while may need to build up intensity slowly. Others may need to avoid certain types of exercise, such as weight training or intense aerobic activity such as jogging.
2. Test your blood sugar before and after exercise and during the activity if it lasts for more than an hour.
3. Check your feet daily for cuts, calluses, and other injuries. If you notice a problem, see a doctor or even a podiatrist. Always wear thick socks and proper athletic shoes.
4. Be prepared to treat hypoglycemia by carrying a quick source of sugar with you, preferably a cool fluid like fruit juice or soda. Rest for 15 minutes so the food can be absorbed. Don’t continue exercising until your blood sugar reaches 100.
5. Always carry identification with you when exercising, as well as money for making an urgent phone call.
6. If you can, exercise with a buddy. Not only does it guard against life-threatening problems: It can inspire you to stick to your exercise plan, research shows.
7. Never exercise if your urine tests positive for ketones (dangerous chemicals that result from lack of insulin), your diabetes is in poor control, or you have a cold, flu, infection or other illness.
Article By: Barbara Boughton, Medical Writer
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