The current noise around blood sugar and glucose monitors is getting louder. So, in this month’s article we will discover whether you need to worry, or not!
Have you ever wondered how exercise affects your blood sugar levels?
Did you know that hitting the gym not only pumps your muscles and boosts your cardiovascular health but can also be a useful tool in controlling your bodies blood sugar levels. Let’s have a look at what is going on.
Why all the fuss about blood sugar levels? Your bloodstream is like a bustling highway, shuttling glucose, aka sugar, to power up every cell and tissue in your body. It’s a vital energy source, especially for those hard-working muscles and brain cells. And just like a skilled conductor, your body usually keeps blood sugar levels in check, maintaining a tight range between 3.5 to 7.8 mmol. But various factors, from what you eat to how you move, can sway these levels.
Here’s where exercise could step in. Wether it’s a brisk morning jog or an evening yoga session. Did you know the timing, intensity, and type of exercise can influence your blood sugar levels? Low-to-moderate intensity aerobic exercises, like a leisurely stroll or a steady bike ride, can actually lower blood sugar levels as your body taps into glucose for fuel. On the flip side, high-intensity workouts might cause a temporary spike in blood sugar, as adrenaline rushes in and glycogen stored in muscles gets released for that extra push.
But here’s the kicker: despite the short-term spike, research shows that regular exercise, including high-intensity interval training (HIIT), leads to long-term reductions in blood sugar levels. It’s like making smart investments in your health – the payoff is real.
So, should you tailor your exercise routine based on your blood sugar levels? For those with diabetes, it’s crucial to monitor blood sugar levels before exercising to ensure safety and optimise performance. Keeping levels within a healthy range is key to feeling good and avoiding hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia. But for the non-diabetic crowd, your body’s got this. Your pancreas and liver team up to regulate blood glucose levels, so no need to stress about post-carb walks to balance things out.
If you feel dizzy, shaky, hunger, or fatigue after your workout, try fueling up before hitting the gym. And if you’re curious about your blood sugar status, chatting with your doctor and running a few quick tests can provide clarity.
In the age of fitness tech, it’s tempting to dive deep into glucose monitoring during workouts. While it’s a burgeoning field with potential benefits for performance optimisation, it’s not a must-have for everyone’s health journey. For most folks, nourishing your body with balanced meals and staying active is the golden ticket to well-being.
So, lace up those sneakers and hit the pavement. Your body will thank you for it!
By Victoria Anne Dale
