Interní Med. 2005; 7(3): 135-138

Physical activity (exercise) - one of the mainstays in prevention and treatment of diabetes mellitus

prof. MUDr. Jaroslav Rybka DrSc^1,2

¹ Diabetologické centrum Baťovy nemocnice Zlín

² Interní klinika, Krajská nemocnice T. Bati a.s., Zlín

Physical activity is an integral part in the management of both diabetes type 1 and type 2. Within the context of diabetes type 2 it is generally accepted today that the worldwide epidemic of the disease is related to decreased physical activity as well as ever increasing prevalence of obesity. Thas, physical activity becomes a fundamental component not only in the management but also prevention of diabetes type 2. Although physical activity exerts added effects on the body, it also has its pitfalls – certain risks which the patient should be aware of and instructed about. The goal should be to ensure the prevalence of benefits over the risks, but also to motivate the patient to willingness and ability to monitor his/her individual effect of exercise on metabolic parameters. Prior to commencing an exercise program the patient with diabetes should undergo appropriate diagnostic examinations and a detailed assessment of the adequacy of his/her exercise program. Only a program of exercise qualitatively and quantitatively precisely defined and designed on an individual basis can fulfill its objective. Modern diabetes management is aimed at educating patients in terms of how to prevent possible complications induced by physical exercise.

Keywords: Key words: exercise and diabetes mellitus, haemodynamic and humoral response to exercise in patients with diabetes, indications and counterindications of exercise in DM type 1 and 2, insulin resistance, prevention of diabetes type 2, exercise program in diabetes.

Published: January 1, 2006  Show citation