Diabetes (Type I and Type II)

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a group of metabolic diseases characterised by elevated blood glucose concentrations (hyperglycaemia) as a result of defects in insulin secretion and/or inability to use insulin.

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is the least common form of diabetes with an estimated 5% of all diabetes cases being type 1. It is classified as an autoimmune disease as the immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that make insulin.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is the most common with 90% of all cases

The fundamental goal of DM is glycaemic control which can be managed through exercise, diet and in some cases medications such as insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents. Exercise interventions play a vital role in helping the body use glucose as a fuel for the working muscles, which in turn lowers blood glucose levels (BGL). A structured exercise routine should work to supplement an individual’s lifestyle to assist in either prevention of the progression of the disease or to manage BGLs long term.

Benefits of regular exercise and being physically active include:

• Lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke

• Reducing cholesterol levels

• Lowering blood pressure

• Assisting with weight loss and managing a health weight

• Slow age-related loss of muscle

• Preventing osteoporosis and risk of falls

• Improving mood and depressive symptoms

• Increase blood circulation in lower limbs