The Importance of Exercise
Exercise is a healthy part of any pregnancy. For women with diabetes, regular exercise:
- Reduces stress
- Improves strength and flexibility
- Helps your body use insulin better
- Controls your weight
- Leads to a quicker recovery after delivery
How Does Exercise Affect Blood Sugar?
Both exercise and insulin lower blood sugar. The combination can result in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
- Know the signs of low blood sugar (confusion, shakiness, extreme hunger).
- Always carry a source of sugar, such as hard candy or dried fruit, in case your blood sugar dips too low.
- Have small snacks between meals.
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Need To Know:
Feel your abdomen during exercise. If it feels very hard, you're exercising too intensely and should stop. If it's soft, you are working at the proper intensity.
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How To Information:
Exercise Guidelines
Check with your doctor before starting or continuing an exercise program. Here are some tips:
- Listen to your body - stop if you feel pain or dizziness, or if you experience vaginal bleeding.
- Avoid twisting and turning, as well as activities that involve sudden stops and starts.
- Don't exercise in hot, humid weather.
- Drink fluids before, during and after exercise.
- Choose swimming and other exercises that use the upper body muscles.
- Exercise after meals.
- Test blood sugar before and after your workout.
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