Today, November 14,  is World Diabetes Day.  The purpose of World Diabetes Day is to distribute information, educate and organize activities that make people aware of the potential consequences of diabetes.  I would like to share some information with everyone that may help you or someone you know understand more about diabetes.

 

According to the International Diabetes Federation, 371 million people have diabetes and 280 million are at risk of developing the disease.()  To put that into perspective there are TWO countries in the world that have more people than 371 million… China and India.  There are more people in the world with diabetes then live in the United States.

 

One in every two people that have diabetes, do not even know that they have it.  That’s a scary thought considering the problems that can occur with uncontrolled diabetes.  I’ve highlighted this topic before and have talked about in every people may be at risk of diabetes.  With that being said here are some of the signs and symptoms:

 

      • Frequent urination
      • Excessive thirst
      • Increased hunger
      • Weight loss
      • Tiredness
      • Lack of interest and concentration
      • Vomiting and stomach pain (often mistaken as the flu)
      • A tingling sensation or numbness in the hands or feet
      • Blurred vision
      • Frequent infections
      • Slow-healing wounds

 

What can you do about diabetes?

First off, you can go to your doctor and have a conversation about your risks and get screened.  Then you can visit an exercise physiologist or qualified personal trainer to help you customize your exercise program.

 

What type of exercise do you need?

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends aerobic exercise three days a week.  The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends to 7 days per week, 20 to 60 minutes per day and 50 to 80% intensity.

 

Resistance training guidelines are recommended by ACSM as set of 10 to 15 repetitions at 40 to 60% intensity for all major muscle groups.  This program is to be followed a minimum of 2 days a week with 48 hours between sessions.

 

As always, consult a physician before beginning any new exercise program.  B3 active!

 

References
) “World Diabetes Day”.  http://www.idf.org/worlddiabetesday/2013 Accessed on November 14, 2013.
2) Albright A, Franz M, Hornsby G, Kriska A, Marrero D, Ullrich I, Verity LS (2000) American College of Sports Medicine Position Stand: Exercise and type 2 diabetes. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise 32: 1345–1360.

 

 

Brent

Brent

President, Personal Training Manager at Body By Brent LLC
Brent
Brent
Brent