A chronic disease such as diabetes doesn’t have to be the deal-killer for your child like it once was. Where once it was thought a quiet lifestyle would be the best solution for anyone with diabetes, now it’s been proven that an active lifestyle and physical fitness actually represent some of the most effective strategies in preventing chronic diseases, including diabetes.

Most young kids love playing sports, and if they are good at it, diabetes doesn’t have to get in the way of exercise or sporting competitions. It’s always a good thing to be discovering new health tips for kids when it comes to understanding diabetes.

Of course, the first thing you will want your children to do is to get physicals for school sports. This will determine how healthy they already are, and point to any areas of concern for you as a parent.

Living with diabetes is like any other chronic disease. It is manageable and with medication, diabetes will not get in the way of being an active young person.

Here’s how exercise helps kids with diabetes:

  • Feeling better for life. Exercise strengthens bones and muscles, at the same time it reduces the risk of heart disease and some cancers.
  • Exercise means you can do more. Balance, strength, coordination and motivation are all enhanced when exercising.
  • Weight management. While eating healthy is great, it’s not the only thing you can do to keep your weight at its peak. Participating in sports or an exercise program burns calories and builds muscle. Your body will be toned and strengthened when you exercise.
  • Boost confidence. When you exercise, you just feel better about yourself. You strive for new levels of competence and when you achieve them it makes you feel good!
  • Exercise works with diabetes medications. When you exercise, insulin in your body works better, and helps to keep blood sugar levels at optimum ranges.

If you’re wondering where to get a sports physical, your physicians at Pediatrix have that covered for you. Whichever school sport you’re interested in, be assured that having diabetes should not hinder participating in it.

All exercise is good, and kids should be encouraged to be physically active for at least 60 minutes a day, every day. From walking the dog to playing golf, diabetes can be controlled with healthy living and healthy habits.