Diabetes and Lifestyle Considerations

• Travelling: It's always much harder to stick with an exercise routine when you're on the road. Look for hotels that have on-site gyms, or are located near gyms. If that's not possible, you can always put on your walking shoes and go for a brisk walk.

  Some people carry their own portable exercise equipment. Obviously this isn't always practical or convenient. However, if you're looking for something that's lightweight and easy-to-carry, many people like resistance bands.

• Going to the gym: Most people find excuses not to exercise at some point in their lives. Maybe you're feeling a little tired, or perhaps the road conditions are terrible, or you might just be having a really busy day and could use some extra time to get caught up.

  Enlisting a friend to go to the gym with you may help you to keep on track. When you know that someone's waiting for you, you'll probably be less likely to skip a workout! Finding a gym nearby may also help to keep you going since you won't have to fight traffic or poor road conditions to get there. And, of course, find a place where you're comfortable with the facilities and the staff.

• Exercising at home: Buying home exercise equipment can offer more time flexibility, convenience, and sometimes even save you money over going to a gym. The downside is that you probably won't be able to equip your home the same way as a gym, so the same exercises over and over again may become boring or stale. Try to switch it up a little to avoid boredom. Instead of spending a half-hour on the treadmill, for example, try something different:
  • Go for a brisk walk in a park or around the neighborhood;
  • Invite a friend to go for a more challenging hike;
  • Buy a variety of exercise videos. Choose a range of them, from traditional aerobic workouts to yoga, tai chi, dance, zumba, or whatever catches your fancy.

• Timing: Exercising can be more difficult after a long day at work. If you are one of those people who find themselves sorely tempted to skip exercising after work, then try doing it first thing in the morning. In the beginning it may be difficult to get up earlier, but you may find you enjoy getting the workout over with early. Some people also like to use their lunch hour to exercise since it gives them a 'break' during the workday. Choose a time of day that you can stick with.

Monitoring Blood Glucose

Many people find it easier to manage blood glucose levels, diabetes medication and/or insulin when they follow a regular routine. Whenever any changes are made to your schedule, blood glucose levels should be carefully monitored to avoid extreme high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Both conditions can be serious if not treated.

Changes in schedule or routine can include:

• Eating at different times;
• A change in what you eat or how much you will be eating (for instance, you may know that it's likely that you'll eat much more at a family gathering);
• Intensity of a workout;
• Skipping a workout;
• Missing a meal;
• ... and so on.

Always check your blood sugar levels whenever you deviate from your regular routine, and consult your doctor for advice if you notice any abnormalities in your blood glucose levels. Your doctor may recommend an adjustment to medication or insulin.

Consider carrying a card in your wallet to alert people that you are diabetic. List the signs of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia and note what they can do to help you if you are unable to help yourself. Showing a close friend or family member what to do is also advisable, in case of emergency and for peace of mind.

Diabetes and lifestyle changes go hand-in-hand. The initial adjustment period can be particularly challenging, but it's a necessary adjustment to maintain optimal health.