Diabetes is a complex condition that will require knowledge, lifestyle changes and motivation to be able to manage it properly. Managing the condition involves managing your diet, weight and doing regular exercises. Did you know that building muscles can also help in your diabetes management? Find out why..
Function of Muscles in Blood Sugar Control
The use of muscles have a lot to do with how well the body can use blood glucose. Under normal insulin function, your muscle tissues will be considered as the single biggest user of glucose within your body. If your insulin is not able to work well and not used in your muscles, it will start to accumulate within your bloodstream thereby causing your glucose level to increase. In order to control your blood sugar, the use of muscles as well as your overall muscle health is important.
Type 1 Diabetes is considered as the insulin dependent type of diabetes. On the other hand, Type 2 is considered insulin resistant. This means that your body is not able to use your muscles well.
In the USA, Type 2 Diabetes is on the rise mainly because of obesity, a near epidemic health issue. If you have Type 2 Diabetes, the insulin in your body is not able to break down glucose as a source of fuel. Instead, your muscles will make use of the fatty acids as fuel which can worsen your insulin resistance and increase the levels of fat in your blood, a condition known as elevated fasting triglycerides. Hence, it is important for diabetes patients to increase their intake of lean protein and complex carbohydrates when it comes to building muscle mass.
Know Your Condition and Limits
Since diabetes can also impair your kidney functionality, it is important for patients to not overdo their protein intake. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) notes that patients with kidney issues may need to follow a low protein diet to best manage their condition.
Considerations
Medical experts suggest patients to eat complex carbohydrates. This is because complex carbs release sugar slowly into your blood. It does not cause a spike in your blood sugar,which simple carbs do. Some of the examples of complex carbs are whole oats, sunflower seeds, brown rice and whole meal pasta.
