Brisk Walking To Control Blood Sugar
Finding simple yet effective ways to manage blood sugar levels is crucial in today’s fast-paced world, where time is a luxury and health often takes a back seat. Amidst complicated diets and exercise regimens, one often overlooked solution stands out for its simplicity and accessibility.
Besides improving cardiovascular health, fast walking reduces weight and improves blood sugar control. Those with diabetes or those at risk can benefit enormously from lively walking every day.
Understanding Brisk Walking
Fast paced walk, also known as brisk walking, involves moving at a pace faster than your usual stroll but not as intense as running. Brisk walking, associated with a speed or pace of 3-4 miles per hour for 13-20 minutes, helps reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by up to 24%. It is an excellent cardiovascular workout because it engages major muscle groups and elevates the heart rate.
Controlling Blood Sugar
Before diving into fast walking benefits, it’s essential to understand how it impacts blood sugar levels. You raise your blood sugar level when your body turns carbohydrates into glucose. Insulin assists glucose uptake into cells for storage or energy, regulating blood sugar levels.
When people with diabetes or insulin deficiency have this process disturbed, they experience high blood sugar levels as a result. A high glucose level can cause coronary illness, nerve damage, and kidney issues.
Exercise’s Role In Blood Sugar Management
Diabetes patients and those at risk of diabetes rely on standard activities to control glucose levels. A higher insulin level prompts a higher pace of glucose ingestion from the circulation system because of movement. Muscles can also use glucose for energy independently of insulin when stimulated by physical activity.
Exercise of any kind is beneficial, but brisk walking is an accessible and convenient choice for people of all ages and fitness levels. Unlike high-intensity workouts that may be intimidating or unsustainable for some, brisk walking is gentle on the joints and can be easily incorporated into daily routines.
Benefits of Fast Walking Endorsed By ICMR
- Blood Sugar Control: The Indian Council of Medical Research recognizes fast walking as a powerful tool for controlling blood sugar levels. Engaging in brisk walking improves insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to absorb glucose more effectively, and reducing elevated blood sugar levels.
- Reduce The Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes may be reduced with regular fast walking. By promoting weight management, enhancing insulin sensitivity, and improving overall metabolic health, brisk walking serves as a proactive measure against this prevalent chronic condition.
- Mental Health Benefits of Walking: Besides its physical benefits, brisk walking has a significant impact on mental health as well. The rhythmic motion and exposure to nature during outdoor walks can alleviate stress, reduce anxiety, and enhance mood, contributing to overall psychological wellness.
The 30 Minute Morning Walk Routine
One of the easiest ways to incorporate fast walking into your daily life is by taking a 30 minute morning walk. A brisk walk starts off your day right and sets a positive tone for the rest of it. Here’s why a 30 minute morning walk is a game-changer:
- Metabolic Boost: A fast walk in the morning revs up your metabolism, helping your body efficiently process glucose throughout the day and maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Focus And Productivity: Morning fast walking cardio enhances cognitive function, sharpens focus, and boosts productivity, similar to the benefits of meditation, preparing you for success.
- Enhanced Mood: Exposing yourself to natural light and engaging in physical activity early in the day triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s feel-good hormones, leading to a positive mood and reduced stress levels.
Making The Most of Fast Walking: Tips For Success
To maximize the benefits of fast paced walk and ensure a safe and effective workout, consider the following tips:
- Warm Up: Begin your fast paced walk with a five-minute warm-up to prepare your muscles and joints for the activity.
- Maintain Proper Form: Maintain an upright position and take brisk, purposeful strides to optimize your workout.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle during your walk, especially during hot weather or for longer durations.
- Gradually Increase Intensity: As your fitness improves, challenge yourself by increasing the pace or incorporating intervals of faster walking into your routine.
Brisk walking is more than just a stroll; it’s a potent weapon in the fight against rising blood sugar levels and type 2 diabetes. Endorsed by the Indian Council of Medical Research for its myriad health benefits, brisk walking offers a simple yet effective way to improve cardiovascular health, enhance mental well-being, and achieve better blood sugar control.
So, lace up your shoes, step outside, and embrace fast walking to safeguard your health and well-being.
Chetna Manu Chaudhary is a creative writer by soul and a professional writer by role. She has been working with Kinminds Technologies Pvt. Ltd from the past 3 years. Bachelors in Multimedia and Animation from Arena Animation, Delhi. Taking her career to the next level by earning her MBA and becoming a postgraduate.