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We've written frequently on the importance of preventing and managing diabetes — and the associated health and cost concerns (for example here, here, and here).

Now, with a new “position statement” on Physical Activity/Exercise and Diabetes, the American Diabetes Association doesn't mince words: “The adoption and maintenance of physical activity are critical foci for blood glucose management and overall health in individuals with diabetes and prediabetes. Recommendations and precautions vary depending on individual characteristics and health status. In this Position Statement, we provide a clinically oriented review and evidence-based recommendations regarding physical activity and exercise in people with type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes mellitus, and prediabetes.”

MedPage reports that lead author Sheri R. Colberg-Ochs, PhD, consultant and director of physical fitness for the ADA, said: “These updated guidelines are intended to ensure everyone continues to physically move around throughout the day — at least every 30 minutes — to improve blood glucose management.”

Colberg-Ochs continued: “This movement should be in addition to regular exercise, as it is highly recommended for people with diabetes to be active,” she said. “Since incorporating more daily physical activity can mean different things to different people with diabetes, these guidelines offer excellent suggestions on what to do, why to do it, and how to do it safely.”

The ADA writes: “Physical activity includes all movement that increases energy use, whereas exercise is planned, structured physical activity. Exercise improves blood glucose control in type 2 diabetes, reduces cardiovascular risk factors, contributes to weight loss, and improves well-being. Regular exercise may prevent or delay type 2 diabetes development. Regular exercise also has considerable health benefits for people with type 1 diabetes (e.g., improved cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, insulin sensitivity, etc.). The challenges related to blood glucose management vary with diabetes type, activity type, and presence of diabetes-related complications. Physical activity and exercise recommendations, therefore, should be tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual.”

Adds MedPage: “Physically activity has numerous benefits that include greater insulin sensitivity, muscle strength, cardiovascular health, and improved mood, to name a few, Colberg-Ochs told MedPage Today in an email.”

Said Colberg-Ochs: “The big differences from prior recommendations are the possibility of doing high intensity interval training for some adults, balance training for anyone age 40 or older or with neuropathy to lower falls risk, the inclusion of flexibility training for all, and frequent breaks from sedentary behavior.”