The relationship between sports and blood sugar levels

The relationship between sports and blood sugar levels is extremely important for health and performance. The impact of exercise on blood sugar levels varies depending on the type and intensity of exercise, as well as the individual's constitution and health condition, but proper management can have a significant effect on maintaining and improving health. Below we explain the mechanism and key points.

Types of exercise and their effects on blood sugar levels

Aerobic Exercise <br data-mce-fragment="1">Aerobic exercise such as jogging, walking, and swimming is characterized by sustained, moderate loads. This type of exercise uses sugar in the body as an energy source, which has the effect of gradually lowering blood sugar levels. This is one of the reasons why it is recommended in the prevention and management of diabetes.

Anaerobic Exercise <br data-mce-fragment="1">High-intensity, short-duration anaerobic exercise, such as strength training or sprinting, consumes sugar (glycogen) in the muscles as energy. After this exercise, blood sugar levels may rise temporarily, but after that, insulin sensitivity improves, which contributes to stabilizing blood sugar levels in the long term.

Exercise intensity and blood sugar level
Low-intensity exercise burns energy slowly and avoids sudden fluctuations in blood sugar levels, such as a long walk or light yoga.
Moderate to high intensity exercise can cause large fluctuations in blood sugar levels. In particular, if your blood sugar level is low before exercise, you need to be careful, and it is important to eat snacks to avoid energy deficiencies.

Exercise tips to manage blood sugar levels

Check your blood sugar before exercising <br data-mce-fragment="1">It is important to check your blood sugar before exercising to make sure it is in a safe range, especially if you have diabetes. If you have hypoglycemia (less than 70 mg/dL) or hyperglycemia (above 250 mg/dL), you should avoid exercising or consult your doctor.

Appropriate snacks <br data-mce-fragment="1">During long periods of exercise or intense exercise, snacks are necessary to prevent running out of energy. For example, snacks that are easily absorbed, such as bananas, are effective.

Managing blood sugar levels after exercise <br data-mce-fragment="1">Blood sugar levels may temporarily drop after exercise, so be careful of hypoglycemia, especially if you are using insulin or hypoglycemic drugs. It is a good idea to eat a meal containing moderate carbohydrates and protein within 30 minutes after exercise.

Long-term effects of continued exercise
Regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity and makes it easier to control blood sugar levels. In addition, reducing body fat and increasing muscle mass improves the efficiency of sugar metabolism, which contributes to stabilizing blood sugar levels.

Conclusion
Sports are a very useful way to manage blood sugar levels. However, it is important to properly manage the type and intensity of exercise, as well as blood sugar levels before and after exercise. In particular, for people with diabetes, creating an exercise plan that suits you in consultation with a doctor or specialist is the key to maintaining your health.

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