Starting an exercise program

Before beginning an exercise program, get your doctor's clearance. A medical OK is absolutely imperative if you are 35 or older and/or have had diabetes for 10 years or more. Your blood glucose must be adequately controlled at the outset to produce the desired results.

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An exercise program should be individually tailored and designed to complement your lifestyle. Many factors--such as the time of day you exercise and the type and duration of your exercise--will determine whether adjustments should be made in your medications or your meal plan. Discuss your exercise program with your exercise physiologist to determine the type of adjustments you need to make. Start your program gradually, and set realistic goals.

Some tips on exercise:

• If you are over 35, you may need a stress test before beginning to exercise regularly.
• Test your blood glucose before and after exercise.
• Do not exercise if your blood glucose is over 250 mg/dl and there are ketones in your urine. If no ketones are present, do not exercise if blood glucose is 400 mg/dl or more.
• Plan exercise to prevent low blood glucose reactions. That means you should exercise 1 to 1½ hours after eating, check blood glucose before and after exercise, always carry a carbohydrate snack with you (glucose tablets, juice, etc.), and drink plenty of fluids.