| Abstract: |
This article encourages people with diabetes to incorporate physical activity into their daily lives in order to lower their risk of cardiovascular disease. The author stresses that regularly getting up and moving (being physically active) is probably the single most important thing one can do to protect and improve health. In addition to strengthening bones and muscles, regular physical activity helps boost the immune system, preserve mental agility, resolve sleep difficulties, reduce stress, and improve self image and psychological well-being. Perhaps the most important benefit of exercise is its ability to strengthen the most vital of muscles, the heart. The author discusses the incidence of cardiovascular disease as a complication of diabetes, the different types of cardiovascular diseases, how physical activity helps the heart, the role of blood pressure, the importance of good blood glucose (sugar) control, the effects of exercise on blood lipids (fats, including cholesterol), news about preventing diabetes, and strategies for incorporating exercise into one's life. One side bar offers specific tips for increasing activity; another explains how to use a pedometer (a small device for recording the distance walked). Appended to the article is a list of diabetes resource organizations; each is briefly described and the appropriate contact information (including web sites) is provided. |