Diabetes Management During Lockdown: Expert Advice on Exercise and Immunity

Dr. El Ayachi El Harti told MAP that no one disputes that practicing sports activities such as jogging, walking or swimming offers huge benefits for all people, especially those suffering from type 1 and 2 diabetes.

The specialist in general and sports medicine advises people with diabetes to exercise daily, subject to several considerations taking into account age and type of diabetes, without failing to determine the recommended number of sessions based on the physical abilities of each patient.

Similarly, the doctor recommends that diabetics measure their blood sugar level before and after these exercises, to rule out the risks of hypoglycemia, which can occur mainly in people treated with insulin. He advises them to have a snack immediately after the exercise.

In addition, the specialist reminds of the vulnerability of people with chronic diseases to the health crisis, and asks them to strictly respect the confinement. Being fragile and having less immunity, diabetics must therefore take more precautions and comply with preventive measures to protect themselves, while practicing a sports activity, essential for the management of their diabetes, concludes El Harti.