Exercise for patients with diabetes. Benefits, risks, precautions.

Exercise is beneficial in both prevention and control of non-insulin-dependent (type II) diabetes. Whether a patient has insulin-dependent or type II diabetes, a regular exercise program can produce positive changes in the lipid profile, reduce blood pressure and weight, and improve other cardiovascular risk factors. The risks of an exercise program include precipitation of cardiovascular events, damage to the soft tissue and joints of the feet, visual loss, early and delayed hypoglycemia, and hyperglycemia and ketosis. Consequently, a comprehensive clinical assessment to identify potentially harmful diabetic complications and to determine the patient's fitness level is needed before a suitable exercise program can be prescribed. With careful manipulation of insulin doses and home monitoring of blood glucose levels, exercise need not adversely affect glycemic control. Moreover, the metabolic and cardiovascular benefits that result from a sensible exercise program can greatly improve the quality of life for most diabetic patients.