For The Health Of It in October

Much of the talk around exercise and diabetes centers on cardio type exercise, where you get your heart and lungs going. However, resistance training also has powerful blood sugar-lowering effects.

Resistance or strength training increases muscles’ sensitivity to insulin, allowing them to take in more glucose. Strength training is also called resistance training because it involves strengthening and toning your muscles by contracting them against a resisting force. The American Diabetes Association recommends that individuals with diabetes perform resistance training at least two, days per week.

Strength training has other benefits beyond the appearance of toned muscles. Your balance and coordination will improve, as will your posture. Strength training can reduce your risk of falling by as much as 40 percent. These health tips are brought to you by the Warm Springs Diabetes Program.