Empowering Diabetes Management Through Exercise Physiology:
Whether you have received a recent diagnosis or have been living with diabetes for some time, here at Moreton All Body Care, our accredited exercise physiologists are passionate about empowering you throughout your own journey in preventing or managing your diabetes effectively. Our exercise physiologists recognise that exercise is not just beneficial but essential in the prevention and management of diabetes. Using their expert knowledge, they can provide you with ongoing education, tailored exercise programs and behaviour change strategies for lifestyle management.
What are the most common types of diabetes and how are they typically managed?
Type 1 Diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes, also known as insulin dependent diabetes, is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin, a hormone which is responsible for blood glucose (sugar) regulation. As a result, blood sugar is elevated. Type 1 diabetes requires lifelong insulin therapy to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent further health complications. It typically develops during childhood or adolescence but can occur at any age. Type 1 diabetes cannot be reversed; however, with proper management such as tailored exercise physiology interventions, individuals with Type 1 diabetes can lead healthy and active lives.
Type 2 Diabetes:
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form. It is a chronic metabolic disorder characterised by insulin resistance, meaning the body is unable to use insulin properly, resulting in insulin deficiency and an inability to maintain normal blood sugar levels. As a result, blood sugar levels are elevated. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes typically involves a combination of insulin resistance and reduced insulin production. Management strategies are typically targeted towards healthy lifestyle modifications such as adopting a healthy diet, increasing physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight. Prescription oral medications and insulin therapy may also be used in management. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, the effects of Type 2 diabetes can sometimes be reversed or put into remission with significant lifestyle changes and ongoing monitoring and support from a team of relevant healthcare professionals such as general practitioners, endocrinologists, diabetes educators, dieticians and exercise physiologists. Early intervention is key!
Gestational Diabetes:
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It is characterised by high blood sugar levels that can negatively affect both the mother and baby’s health. Lifestyle management strategies such as dietary changes and exercise therapy are typically implemented to manage blood sugar levels during pregnancy. It typically resolves after birth. However, those who develop gestational diabetes are at higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Pre-diabetes:
Pre-diabetes is a condition characterised by higher than normal blood sugar levels but not high enough to reach the Type 2 diabetes diagnosis threshold. Early lifestyle intervention, such as a personalised exercise program and behaviour change strategies developed by one of our exercise physiologists, is crucial, as those diagnosed with pre-diabetes are at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes without intervention.
How can our Exercise Physiologists help you?
Education and Guidance:
Our exercise physiologists provide comprehensive education surrounding the role of physical activity and exercise in effectively managing diabetes. We ensure we provide an understanding of how exercise affects blood sugar levels, insulin sensitivity and overall health. Targeted exercise therapy aims to stabilise blood glucose levels and reduce reliance on medication.
Our exercise physiologists aim to empower you to take charge and progress towards self management of your chronic condition. Using their expert knowledge and insight, our exercise physiologists can work with you to provide you with personalised behaviour change strategies to maximise adherence to increasing physical activity levels and optimise health benefits, including but not limited to improved cardiovascular health and overall wellbeing.
Individualised Exercise Plans:
When under the care of one of our exercise physiologists, you will benefit from the prescription of personalised, evidence based exercise plans, tailored to your unique lifestyle and medical considerations. These individualised exercise programs are designed to enhance glucose control, improve cardiovascular health, global muscular strength and balance, all whilst taking into consideration your personal preferences.
Collaborative Practice:
Our exercise physiologists will work closely with your healthcare team to integrate safe exercise into your collaborative diabetes management plan and ensure we are providing you with the same high level of patient centred care to optimise your health outcomes.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or seeking to optimise your current regimen, our exercise physiologists’ goal is to support you in achieving better health outcomes through safe and effective physical activity.
For more information or if you would like to book an appointment with one of our knowledgeable exercise physiologists to kickstart your journey towards effectively preventing or managing your diabetes, please contact our Burpengary clinic on 38886699.