Is exercise really safe if I’m at
risk for heart disease?
ANSWERED BY ROBERT POWELL, PH.D., CDE, CEP, CSCS
Yes, really! Stories of sudden cardiac arrest during exercise are shock-
ing, but these events are very rare. In fact, it’s riskier not to exercise.
Regular physical activity has been shown to greatly lower PWDs’ risk
of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) and of having an exercise-
related heart attack. Plus, it can help slow the progression of CVD com-
plications in those who are diagnosed. If you’re free of symptoms sug-
gestive of a heart issue during exercise (chest pain, increased fatigue,
excessive shortness of breath) and you’ve been cleared by your doctor at
your annual visit, then it’s safe to lace up for low- to moderate -intensity
activities like walking, biking, dancing, gardening, or doubles tennis.
While the benefi ts certainly outweigh the risks, your concerns shouldn’t
be overlooked. For extra reassurance, gradually increase the duration
and intensity of your workouts, and make sure you’re comfortable and
free of symptoms before kicking it up a notch.
Why do other people have
different blood sugar
goals than I do?
ANSWERED BY MARTY IRONS, RPH, CDE
Because there is no one way to manage
diabetes. Everyone used to have the
same generic blood glucose targets. But
over the past 10 years, treatment has
changed. Providers now base safe blood
sugar goals on a multitude of factors,
including your age and health, how long
you’ve lived with diabetes, how active
you are, and whether or not you use
insulin or are at risk of low blood sugar.
Be careful not to compare your goals to
others’. You are unique, and your goals
should be too.
What’s an appropriate
portion of nuts?
ANSWERED BY LEAH SARRIS, RD, LDN
A small palmful—about the size of
a golf ball—is a good amount. If
you’re the measuring type, that
comes to 1 ounce or about 2 table-
spoons. Nuts are good sources of
healthy fats, protein, and fi ber. And
they make for satisfying snacks
and fi lling additions to salads and
grains. Limiting portions just
keeps calories in check.
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SPR I NG 2019 / DI A BETIC LI V ING 9
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