GENEVA, Ill., June 8, 2011 -- According to the American Diabetes Association, there were an estimated 1.9 million new cases of diabetes diagnosed in people aged 20 years and older in 2010 and an estimated 79 million with pre-diabetes symptoms. Diabetes is a complex disease but there is a lot that can be done to manage it with proper nutrition, exercise and emotional wellness. A new program offered at Delnor Health & Wellness Center, called Diabetes CARE, looks to improve the health and well-being of those with diabetes through the benefits of exercise as a vital part of the management process.
The Diabetes Exercise CARE program is an integrated lifestyle program that offers people with Type I or Type 2 diabetes, or those with pre-diabetes, the opportunity to exercise in a safe and monitored environment while learning healthy behaviors for a lifetime. The program focuses on the principles of Control, Accountability, Resolution and Empowerment (CARE). The CARE team, consisting of a certified and degreed personal trainer, life coach, and registered dietitian, will help to develop an individualized program that fits each participant’s needs.
Improving Quality of Life
According to Larry Weiland, M.S., exercise physiologist, and certified and degreed fitness specialist at Delnor Health & Wellness Center, “Exercise improves the quality of life for the diabetes patient both physically and emotionally.” In fact, several studies have examined the relationship between exercise and quality of life and have reported positive findings.
Participants can expect a well-structured program that includes an 8-week full membership to Delnor Health & Wellness Center. During that time, the member will have regular meetings with a certified and degreed personal trainer and a licensed dietician to promote safety, effectiveness and accountability. “The exercise and diet programs will be tailored to individual needs, abilities and goals. Participants will also have regular meetings with a life coach to deal with the mental and emotional aspects of dealing with diabetes and the changes that result from their participation in Diabetes CARE,” explains Weiland.
The Benefits of Exercise and Proper Nutrition in Diabetes Management
The American Diabetes Association endorses exercise as an important way to manage diabetes. “Not only can exercise help you achieve beneficial weight loss, but every time you exercise it helps to lower your blood sugar and helps your cells accept insulin more efficiently,” adds Weiland.
“Mild to moderate intensity exercise lowers blood sugar levels in those with Type 2 diabetes. That effect lasts into the post exercise period, so exercising frequently is a good idea along with monitoring your blood sugar.” Exercise is also well-documented to lower blood pressure in those with diabetes, thus contributing to a lowered risk of cardiovascular disease.
Additionally, exercise has been shown to:
- Improve natural defense mechanisms
- Improve sense of control
- Improve mood
- Improve self-esteem
- Improve quality of life
Weiland concludes, “Exercise offers many benefits to this population, such as building strength and range of motion and improving stamina and glucose tolerance, which all helps to build a better overall lifestyle.”
If you or someone you know suffers with diabetes or pre-diabetes, the Diabetes Exercise CARE Program can have positive effects on lifestyle changes which can change the course of the disease. Exercise is an important part of a healthy life, but when you have Type I and Type 2 diabetes, exercise is essential for helping you manage the disease and keep your blood sugar in a normal range. Losing 5% to 7% of your total body weight can lower your blood sugar levels and help reverse or prevent complications.
For More information about Diabetes CAR
Please contact the Membership Department at the center at 630/208-3358 for more information about the program and pricing.
The Delnor Health &Wellness Center, located at 296 Randall Road, Geneva, is part of CDH/Delnor Health System, which offers a variety of health services for residents of the western suburbs and beyond. For more information about the center, please call (630) 208-3933 or visit the web site at delnorwellness.com |
300 Randall Road