In addition to helping people with diabetes manage their glucose (blood sugar), regular physical activity can also lower their risk of developing certain conditions related to diabetes. Prominent among these are cardiovascular diseases including:

• Heart conditions. People with diabetes are at greater risk of developing heart disease than nondiabetics because of the effects of diabetes on blood fats and excess glucose on the blood vessels. However, regular exercise can reverse hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), a major risk factor for heart disease. It can also affect two other major risk factors by lowering blood pressure and controlling cholesterol.

• Stroke. An event in which the flow of oxygen to the brain is restricted. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), people with diabetes are two to four times more likely to have a stroke than individuals without diabetes. Over time, elevated glucose (hyperglycemia) can damage the blood vessels that lead to the brain, causing stroke. Regular physical activity helps people with diabetes regulate their glucose and prevent this hazardous condition.
  
  
• Diabetic angiopathy. Disease that affects the blood vessels. Regular exercise can help reduce excess glucose and body weight, both of which lead to increased risk of angiopathy in people with diabetes.

Exercise can also help fight:

• Diabetic neuropathy. Nerve damage that is caused by diabetes. Though the exact cause of neuropathy remains unknown, research indicates that patients with poor glucose control are more likely to develop this condition than those who regulate their glucose through exercise and nutrition. Exercise and diet in people with prediabetes can reduce neuropathic pain and possibly even reverse damage to nerves, researchers have found.
  
  
• Diabetic nephropathy. Kidney disease that is caused by diabetes. It is the most common cause of chronic kidney failure in the United States. Regular physical activity is key in the prevention of this disorder because of the resulting improved glucose control and weight loss or maintenance. For patients undergoing dialysis, exercise has been found to increase effectiveness of sessions and to reduce side effects.

• Diabetic retinopathy. An eye disease in which the small blood vessels in the retina leak fluid and become swollen. Patients who control their glucose levels and body weight through consistent exercise are less likely to develop retinopathy and other eye conditions including glaucoma.
  
  
• Skin disorders and foot problems. Exercise helps prevent these common diabetic complications by improving circulation and glycemic control.
  
  
• Periodontal disease. Reducing hyperglycemia through physical activity can help prevent dental conditions.
  
  
• Sexual dysfunction. Controlling blood pressure, glucose and weight with exercise reduces the odds of sexual problems. Kegel exercises, clenching exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, can improve sexual response and help prevent urinary incontinence in women and men.