Exercise is imperative for controlling blood sugar imbalances, but there are several instances when exercise can actually raise blood sugars instead of lowering them. This is important info for everyone, even those who dont have blood sugar imbalances. The reason is that high glucose levels can occur temporarily in people with normal blood glucose levels. Elevated blood sugars - even temporarily - causes an increase in insulin levels which can cause inflammation and weight gain. Maintaining balance in exercise is important. The two most common causes of blood sugar rises caused by exercise include: - Exercising without eating first: The body requires food to generate energy for exercise. When we exercise without providing the body with energy in the form of fat/protein/carbs, the body will release glycogen from the liver to provide fuel. Glycogen is an energy source stored in the liver that raises blood sugars dramatically. One of the biggest complaints I hear from people with Type 1 diabetes is that they finish a workout, expecting their sugars to be a bit low, only to find their sugar is over 400. (I know from experience how frustrating that can be.) The best way to prevent the body from releasing glycogen is to eat a snack prior to working out. Good options include: an apple and peanutbutter; a protein shake with half a banana; 10 grapes and an ounce of cheese; any other healthy combination of protein, fat and 1 low-glycemic carbohydrate. - People with diabetes who work out when their blood sugar is over 250 will also find their blood sugars skyrocket when they workout. Similar to the above, this is because their body releases glycogen. High blood sugars cause the body to stop turning food into energy. When people workout with a high blood sugar, their body will therefore think it doesnt have energy for the workout and will release glycogen from the liver for fuel. This is also frustrating, as were taught exercise is an effective means of lowering blood sugar, but that is only true for blood sugars below 200-250. Exercise is essential and does improve insulin resistance, but wisdom must be used in preparing to exercise and in choosing when to exercise. What questions does this information bring to mind?
Posted on: Mon, 28 Jul 2014 13:40:47 +0000