Let's Get Physical: The Simple Ways Diabetics Can Make Workouts Fun

People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop problems with mobility as they age, than those without diabetes. Can everybody lower their risk of mobility problems with diet and exercise?

Well, a study reported in the New England Journal of Medicine noted that a 1 percent decrease in weight will lower the risk of mobility problems by 7.4 percent, while a 1 percent increase in fitness level will lower the risk of mobility problems by 1.4 percent. In order to maintain the benefit, people need to continue the lifestyle changes.

Family support and encouragement is so important in continuing to make this lifestyle change. While the study did not mention family involvement, in my experience people who have company when they go for a walk and are served foods which the whole family enjoys together, seem all around happier.

Instead of focusing on how the person with diabetes is different from the rest of the family, family members can make the lifestyle change with them by walking together or taking up other forms of exercise, and also preparing enjoyable meals — meals that are lower in carbohydrates and calories. When the whole family changes their lifestyle together, the entire family may become healthier, and the person with diabetes won't feel so isolated.

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