What's the best exercise for diabetes patients?

In our opinion, the best thing you can do to keep your blood sugars normal is to walk every day, with one day off per week.  If you can do thirty minutes, that is best.  Of course, check with your doctor before starting on any program of exercise.  But, any exercise where you can sweat does wonders to lower your blood sugar.  Of course, then you have to be careful that your walking (or exercise) does not cause your blood sugar to get too low (Hypoglycemia). 

Make sure that you have comfortable walking shoes, or sneakers, and that they fit comfortably so there is no rubbing or chaffing on your feet.  You may want to consider getting diabetic socks to help keep your feet dry and reduce any rubbing against the insides of your shoes. 

Diabetics can get nasty complications if sores on their feet go unnoticed and remain untreated.  Sores on the feet that don't get treated can turn into ulcers and the infection can turn to sepsis, where amputation of a foot or leg can be the only remedy left to save the patient's life.  So, please make sure your doctor or somebody you trust regularly inspects your feet and between your toes for any sores or cuts. 

Not only is walking or exercising good for maintaining and keeping your blood sugar levels under control, but you will get an added benefit that exercise changes your outlook and makes you happy if you are feeling depressed on account of your disease.

Be sure to check out Virginia's other personal diabetes tips and recommendations to help you control your diabetes.