Studies reveal that almost 463 million adults live with diabetes today. By 2045, the number is slated to rise to 700 million. While the numbers in themselves are staggering, it is worse still that 374 million are likely to develop Type 2 diabetes during their lifetime.

Being aware and informed is the first step of diabetic care. Timely detection, intervention, and meticulous treatment form the main course of dealing with diabetes. Medical assistance is imperative to keep blood sugars in check. Besides the prescribed medications, lifestyle change and healthy habits play a key role in managing diabetes.

Diabetes and Health Risks

Apart from being a condition in itself, diabetes impacts the healthy functioning of vital organs. Some complications that may arise due to uncontrolled diabetes include:

• Increased risk of strokes or other heart conditions.
• Nerve damage, especially to the feet, causes conditions including foot ulcers and infection.
• Diabetic retinopathy and related eye problems.
• Eventual kidney damage and failure in some cases.

How to Manage Diabetes

While several lifestyle modifications can help reduce the risk of diabetes, the most important preventive measure is increased physical activity. Experts advocate at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity every day. Those with weight-related issues are advised more. Being outdoors for brisk walking, visiting the gym, and playing sports are some of the most popular options in maintaining a physically active lifestyle. One such physical activity which helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels is dance.

As obesity is known as one of the main factors for the development of type 2 diabetes, the study recommends keeping your weight down through physical exercise such as dancing as a way of helping to reduce the risk of diabetes.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Dance Therapy for Diabetes

For those looking for unconventional solutions to manage diabetes, dance therapy could prove to be an interesting choice. One must remember that diabetes can take a toll on your physical, mental and emotional health, and dance can also help relieve stress from diabetes. Besides maintaining physical health, dance also triggers significant levels of positivity.

Benefits of Dance Therapy in Diabetes

The benefits of dance in diabetes are many; it helps maintain the overall health of the organs most likely to be affected by diabetes. The most significant advantages include:

• Better heart health: Dancing can help strengthen the heart and help with blood circulation. As little as twenty minutes of dance thrice a week is beneficial. With the lowered risk of heart disease, dance is a proven method to maintain better overall health.
• Lowered stress: Dance and music are known to help lowering stress and improve mood. It aids in releasing endorphins that make you feel better and helps you relax more.
• Builds endurance: This is especially useful for those who need to lose weight or get more active. Regular dance therapy can help build physical endurance, just like cardio workouts do.
• Burn calories: Every dance session can burn up to 500 calories, depending on the dance form and intensity.
• Improves balance: Diabetics are consistently advised to be cautious of injuries and falls. Dance helps maintain balance, allows better posture, and gives more control over body movements. 

Choosing the Right Dance Form for Diabetes Control

The right dance form for managing diabetes for an individual depends on several factors. Beginners may find simpler forms more suitable. For those seeking intense, high-energy activities, Zumba can be the preferred dance therapy. Experienced dancers can experiment with dance forms they already practise. Medical advice must be sought before signing up for any dance activity to manage diabetes. Do not exert and dance if you have been advised of any restrictions due to orthopaedic problems, heart disease or post-surgery. Talk to your doctor first.

Precautions in Dance Therapy for Diabetics

There is no debate about the importance of exercise for diabetes control. However, any form of physical activity, including dance, must be undertaken with certain precautions. Important considerations include:

• Instructor support: The dance instructor must always be informed of the condition and related issues. This will help them suggest the right form and set the most appropriate pace.
• Foot care: The feet must always be protected with the right footwear to avoid blisters and wounds. The right footwear prevents injuring your joints while doing a high-intensity activity like dancing.
• Suitable pace: It is advised to take things slow. Being cautious is important in preventing hypoglycemia and other problems.
• Prepare: Every dance session must begin with a proper warm-up and end with a cool-down session. This can protect against injury and help the body prepare better.
• Supplement with medication: Dance may work wonders in managing diabetes, but it is not the cure. All medication must be taken as prescribed at regular times in conjunction with dance therapy. 

Conclusion

Alternative forms of exercise for managing diabetes, like dance, are gaining more and more popularity these days. Finding a method that is physically and mentally most conducive for you is the key. Understand your mind and body and choose the best physical exercise that suits you for.

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