How To Keep A Consistent Workout Routine When Dealing With Diabetes Fatigue
Diabetes fatigue is a feeling of extreme tiredness or exhaustion that is not relieved by rest. It can be debilitating, making it difficult to carry out everyday tasks. Fatigue can have many different causes, including physical activity, lack of sleep, stress, and illness. For people with diabetes, fatigue can be caused by high blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels are high, the body has to work harder to process the sugar (via Healthline). This can lead to feelings of fatigue.
High blood sugar levels can also cause dehydration, which can lead to fatigue. Dehydration happens when the body doesn't have enough fluids. When you're dehydrated, your body doesn't work as well and you can feel tired. There are many things you can do to help relieve diabetes fatigue, including exercising. However, exercise can be difficult when you have diabetes fatigue and don't have the energy to get up and do anything. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can keep a consistent workout routine when dealing with this condition.
The first tip is to start small and work your way up to more intense exercise. If you try to do too much too soon, you'll likely just end up feeling more fatigued. Start with some light stretching or walking and gradually increase the intensity as you feel more comfortable.
Other tips for exercising with diabetes fatigue
Another way to help yourself stay on track is to set regular workout times and stick to them as much as possible. If you know you have diabetes fatigue, it's especially important to exercise in the morning when you have more energy. And if you can't make it to the gym or go for a run, there are plenty of at-home exercises you can do, like yoga or Pilates. Getting a workout buddy can also help (via Healthline). Enlist the help of a friend, family member, or personal trainer to help you stay motivated and on track.
It may also help to approach exercise in a more nuanced way. For example, while vacuuming the living room may not technically be a form of exercise, it is a good way to get your heart rate up. Find a way to be active when you can. Finally, be sure to listen to your body and take breaks when you need them (via WebMD). It's easy to push yourself too hard when you're trying to exercise with diabetes fatigue, but this will only make the condition worse. If you start feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or short of breath, take a break and rest until you feel better.
Other ways diabetes can affect your body
Diabetes fatigue isn't the only symptom of diabetes. According to Mayo Clinic, the condition can also lead to other symptoms and complications, such as diabetic nephropathy, diabetic neuropathy, and diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic nephropathy is a condition that damages the kidneys and can lead to kidney failure. Diabetic neuropathy is a condition that damages the nerves and can lead to problems with sensation, movement, and digestion. Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that damages the blood vessels in the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye) and can lead to vision problems and even blindness. Diabetes is also correlated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. This is because diabetes can damage the blood vessels and nerves, which can lead to problems with blood flow and a build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries (atherosclerosis). These problems can eventually lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Diabetes can also cause other problems, such as skin problems, gum disease, and yeast infections. People with diabetes are also at an increased risk for certain types of cancers, such as ovarian cancer and pancreatic cancer. If you have diabetes, it's important to monitor your blood sugar levels and see your doctor regularly so that you can catch any complications early on. With proper treatment and self-care, many of the symptoms and complications of diabetes can be managed.