GeekOverGears.com | All Things Automotive

7 ways exercise helps prevent and manage diabetes

Numerous studies have shown the undisputed benefits of physical activity for people with type 2 diabetes. The condition develops when the body cannot produce or process insulin effectively. Insufficient insulin levels result in excess glucose in the bloodstream, which may eventually cause serious health complications like kidney failure, stroke, or blindness. In addition to suitable treatments, regular physical exercise is an early line of defense doctors recommend for people with diabetes.

Effects of exercise on diabetes
Exercise can help one manage type 2 diabetes symptoms, as regular physical activity may slow the progression of the disease or even reverse its long-term effects. Here are some ways exercise helps people with the condition:

Managing blood sugar levels
Physical activity combined with good food habits can work wonders for one’s health. Walking, running, swimming, or cycling are cardio-based activities that help keep glucose levels in check and boost the body’s insulin sensitivity. According to the International Journal of Cardiology Research, muscular training also aids in controlling blood sugar levels. Muscle building alone can take up to 80% of the glucose in the body and clear up the bloodstream. Doctors may also recommend walking after meals to manage diabetes.

Managing stress
Physical and mental stress lead to the release of adrenaline and cortisol into the bloodstream. These hormones can spike blood sugar levels and worsen diabetes over time. Usually, any form of exercise can help relieve stress and enhance mood by releasing feel-good hormones in the brain called endorphins. Additionally, working out can also improve sleep patterns, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure.

Lowering inflammation
Type 2 diabetes and its effects, like cognitive decline or joint pain, can lead to inflammation throughout the body. Regular exercise can help lessen the inflammation and its impact. The American Diabetes Association advises adults with type 2 diabetes to engage in 150 minutes of physical activity every week and strength training two or three times a week.

Targetting belly fat
Abdominal or visceral fat around the vital organs can hamper the liver, heart, and lung function. Additionally, visceral fats reduce the body’s sensitivity to insulin, making it difficult to manage blood sugar levels. Resistance training or cardio workouts can help get rid of this fat.

Improving blood circulation
High sugar levels can result in fatty deposits in blood vessels, narrowing the vessel openings and hampering blood flow. Poor blood circulation can increase the risk of foot ulcers, delay wound healing, or even cause nerve damage. Exercising regularly can improve blood circulation.

Preventing muscle loss
Diabetes may accelerate muscle loss, especially in older adults. Strength training is a great way to avoid age-related muscle degradation. It can also help patients fight mobility issues and complications like joint pain or weak bones.

Reducing the risk of vision loss
The eyes have small blood vessels; high blood glucose levels can interrupt the blood flow, leading to diabetic retinopathy. Exercise can help one control this risk. To prevent nerve injury, one can begin with low-impact stationary cycling or other moderate exercises. One should consult a healthcare professional before beginning any workout.

Popular Reads

4 Small Pickup Trucks to Choose From

Small pickup trucks were once primarily used for hauling farming or construction equipment. Today, these vehicles also offer massive cargo space, extravagant passenger features, and rugged capabilities. And if you’re looking for such a vehicle, the number of options and price ranges can overwhelm you. To help filter your requirements is the first step to take. To shortlist your choices, here are our top four pickup trucks that truly give you bang for the buck. 2013 Toyota Tacoma The 2013 Toyota Tacoma is still a very popular truck for the regular pickup driver. It comes in different trim variants and is loaded with a variety of features. Moreover, it gives you an impressive cargo capacity for its size, making it one of the best pickup trucks. Depending on your needs you can either choose a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that gives 159 hp or go for a higher 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 236 hp. It’s available in both five-speed manual transmission or four-speed automatic transmission. You can even opt for a four-wheel-drive in case you offroad a lot. 2016 Chevrolet Colorado The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado is a comfortable ride with spacious and exquisite interiors. It is a compact truck that can be easily driven in the city while offering the capabilities of a full-size truck.

5 affordable crossover SUVs you can buy without thinking twice

Crossover SUVs offer tons of versatility in functionality at practically very affordable prices. Suitable for cargo as well as passenger transportation, crossover SUVs provide the best of both worlds. In addition to being a perfect combination of a passenger car’s fuel economy and a small truck’s cargo capacity, crossover SUVs prices are more pocket-friendly. Crossover SUVs bring in the sturdiness of a pickup truck, spacious cargo hold of hatchbacks, and passenger comfort of a minivan or a wagon. No wonder crossover SUVs have quickly become popular. If you are planning to buy one, here are some popular ones at affordable crossover SUVs prices. Hyundai Kona: With prices starting from $20,100, the Hyundai Kona has one of the most affordable crossover SUVs prices. At a budget price, this crossover SUV is replete with outstanding and significantly good features. These include a stylishly quality cabin with a user-friendly infotainment system, good crash test ratings, and agile handling. At such an affordable price tag, this crossover SUV is a catch. Kia Sportage: The Kia Sportage can easily accommodate five passengers within its spacious cabin. With a price starting from $23,990, the Kia Sportage is a compact crossover SUV that gives decent performance powered by an efficient four-cylinder engine.

What to consider before buying a Chevy Silverado 1500

Chevrolet has been a household name in the automobile industry for over a hundred years now. The auto giant earned a reputation for manufacturing some of the best pickup trucks in recent years and the Silverado series is one stellar example. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is by far the strongest and technologically advanced pickup designed to get the job done, period! A bigger engine, better transmission, and stellar off-road capabilities rank the 1500 trims in a class of its own. Here are some of the key highlights of the pickup truck. Trims The Chevy Silverado 1500 is a true commercial workhorse that offers eight trim variants and three custom special editions. The heavier V8 engine trims can haul heavy loads for long distances, while the lighter Turbo trims offer the best fuel economy in its class. Towing and trailering also play an important role when it comes to choosing a trim variant. Engine and transmission The bigger the engine block, the more powerful is the pickup. You get multiple options for engines, including your standard V6 or V8 and the more fuel-efficient Duramax® Turbo-Diesel. The Silverado 1500 comes with a 4.3L V6, 5.3L V8, or a 6.2L V8, all great engine blocks for the heavy trims.