How does physical activity affect diabetes?

Research has shown that physical activity can affect diabetes in several ways. For example, physical activity:

Lowers your blood glucose and your blood pressure (BP)Lowers your bad cholesterol and raises your good cholesterolImproves your body's ability to use insulinLowers your risk for heart disease and strokeKeeps your heart and bones strongKeeps your joints flexibleLowers your risk of fallingHelps you lose weightReduces your body fatGives you more energyReduces your stress levels

Physical activity also plays an important part in preventing type 2 diabetes. A major government study, the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), showed that a modest weight loss of 5 to 7 percent-for example, 10 to 15 lb. for a 200 lb. person-can delay and possibly prevent type 2 diabetes. People in the study used diet and exercise to lose weight

This answer is based on source information from the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC).