Get off your seat and move your feet!
A few short movement breaks can go a long way when it comes to managing blood sugars.
When it comes to managing blood sugar levels,eating fewer carbohydratesmight be your first thought.
Photo:Getty Images. EatingWell design.
And while carbsand diet in generalare a key puzzle piece, other lifestyle factors also play an important role.
One easy habit to adopt is taking a short walk after you eat.
For one, it improves insulin sensitivity.
Insulin is the hormone that moves sugar from your blood to your cells.
This natural sugar sweep helps reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes and improves how well your body uses insulin.
Unsure of where to start?Walking for just a few minutesafter a meal can help!
A simple 10-minute walk after meals benefits blood sugar, insulin sensitivity and long-term metabolic health.
Science backs this up!
saysBess Berger, RDN, a dietitian at Nutrition by Bess, a womens health center in New Jersey.
You dont have to spend an hour a day at the gym to reap the benefits of physical activity.
But remember, you dont have to go from 0 to 100 overnight.
In fact, doing so could lead to burnout.
Instead, gradually increase your activity level to help you stay motivated and prevent injury.
So what does this look like in practice?
Here are some suggestions:
Its all about getting your big muscle groups activated.
The secret sauce is consistency and avoiding long stretches of sitting, she says.
And the good news is, you dont have to overhaul your workout routine overnight.
Walking isnt your thing?
Trydancing to your favorite song, tending your garden or stretching while watching TV.
Anything that gets your big muscles activated will do the trick!
2022;52(8):1765-1787. doi:10.1007/s40279-022-01649-4
American Diabetes Association.Blood Glucose and Exercise.
2022;14(9):e29142.
