### How to Exercise Safely with Type 1 Diabetes Staying active is beneficial for everyone, including those with type 1 diabetes. Regular exercise can help lower the risk of complications such as high blood pressure, heart disease, nerve damage, and vision loss. It can also improve your overall quality of life by helping you manage your weight, improve your mood, and get better sleep. However, people with type 1 diabetes need to be cautious because exercise can affect blood sugar levels. Strenuous activity can cause blood sugar to drop (hypoglycemia) or rise (hyperglycemia). Here are some tips to help you exercise safely: 1. **Consult Your Doctor**: Before starting a new exercise routine, talk to your doctor or diabetes educator. They can help you decide which workouts are safe and guide you on how to keep your blood sugar in a safe range. 2. **Monitor Blood Sugar**: Check your blood sugar level before and after each workout. If your blood sugar is higher than 250 mg/dL (13.9 mmol/L), test for ketones. If ketones are present, avoid exercise and contact your doctor. 3. **Adjust Insulin and Carbs**: Coordinate your insulin intake with your meals, snacks, and workouts. You might need to reduce your insulin dosage or eat more carbs before exercising. 4. **Stay Hydrated**: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as dehydration can affect blood sugar levels. 5. **Choose the Right Exercise**: Find an exercise routine that works for you. Options include aerobic activities like swimming and cycling, and resistance activities like weight lifting. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and short sprints can also be beneficial. 6. **Be Prepared**: Always carry fast-acting carbs, such as glucose tablets or juice, to treat low blood sugar. Consider wearing a medical ID bracelet and exercising with someone who knows how to treat severe hypoglycemia. 7. **Listen to Your Body**: If you feel sick, shaky, or confused, stop exercising and check your blood sugar. If you are sick before starting, consider rescheduling your workout. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of exercise while keeping your blood sugar levels stable.