Exercise

Overtime, exercise can promote weight loss resulting in lower blood sugar levels.  When exercising, the muscles are more sensitive to insulin and absorb increased amounts of glucose from the blood.  If an individual is diabetic, this can cause a spike in blood sugar.  Normally, blood sugar levels drop after exercise and continue to lower for the next 24 to 48 hours.  As the muscles contract during physical activity, glucose is used for energy whether the body has insulin available or not.  If the body is lacking sufficient insulin supply, blood sugar levels can drop to dangerously low levels potentially causing hypoglycemia.  Hypoglycemia, also referred to as insulin reaction or insulin shock can cause injuries, accidents and has the potential to result in a coma.  Individuals with Type 1 diabetes have the highest risk of developing hypoglycemia.  Those with Type 2 diabetes are less likely to experience hypoglycemia during or after exercise.  However, if an individual with Type 2 diabetes is on insulin, blood sugar levels can drop lower than expected causing hypoglycemia.  While Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can influence fluctuations in blood sugar levels, every individual is different.  Depending on the amount of exercise every individual can react differently to exercise type, duration and amount.  To prevent extreme blood sugar highs and lows it is important to monitor glucose levels before and after exercise.


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