6. Explain effects of physical exercise on diabetes mellitus.
Physical exercise is a crucial element in the management of diabetes mellitus. It has several effects on the condition:
1. Improves insulin sensitivity: Physical exercise helps to improve insulin sensitivity, which means that the body can use insulin more efficiently to lower blood glucose levels.
2. Reduces blood glucose levels: Exercise helps to reduce blood glucose levels by enhancing glucose uptake by the muscles.
3. Decreases insulin resistance: Insulin resistance occurs when the body does not respond properly to insulin, which leads to higher blood glucose levels. By decreasing insulin resistance, exercise helps to lower blood glucose levels.
4. Helps to maintain a healthy weight: Exercise can help to maintain a healthy weight or promote weight loss, which is beneficial for managing type 2 diabetes.
5. Improves cardiovascular health: Diabetes increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, and exercise helps to improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure, increasing HDL cholesterol levels, and reducing triglyceride levels.
6. Reduces the risk of complications: Exercise helps to reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes, such as neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy.
Physical exercise has several effects on diabetes mellitus, specifically on both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Here are the effects of exercise on diabetes:
1. Improved insulin sensitivity: Regular physical exercise can increase the body's sensitivity to insulin, allowing it to use insulin more effectively. This can help lower blood sugar levels and improve overall glycemic control.
2. Increased glucose uptake: When you exercise, your muscles need energy to perform the activity. This increased energy demand stimulates glucose uptake by the muscles, which helps to lower blood sugar levels.
3. Weight management: Exercise can aid in weight loss or weight maintenance, which is particularly beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes. Maintaining a healthy weight can improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.
4. Lowered blood sugar levels: Physical activity can lower blood sugar levels both during and after exercise. This is because exercise increases glucose uptake into the muscles and promotes the use of stored glucose for energy.
5. Improved cardiovascular health: Exercise helps to strengthen the heart, lower blood pressure, improve blood circulation, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes.
6. Stress reduction: Regular exercise can help reduce stress levels, which is important for people with diabetes as stress hormones can interfere with insulin action and contribute to elevated blood sugar levels.
7. Improved lipid profile: Exercise can increase the levels of HDL (good) cholesterol and decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides. This helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases commonly associated with diabetes.
8. Enhanced insulin secretion: In some cases, exercise can stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin, especially in people with type 2 diabetes. This improved insulin secretion can further help in controlling blood sugar levels.
It's important to note that people with diabetes should consult with their healthcare team before starting any exercise program. They can provide personalized recommendations and guidance on the appropriate type, intensity, and duration of exercise based on individual needs and medical considerations.