Can exercise and sweating lower blood sugar?

Generally, physical activity and sweating can help lower blood glucose levels.

Patients with hyperglycemia can reduce their blood glucose not only through medication but also via exercise-induced sweating. Exercise helps decrease insulin resistance and enhances glucose utilization, thereby promoting metabolism and circulation—both of which contribute to better glycemic control. Activities such as jogging or walking can improve systemic circulation and help burn excess blood glucose, thus achieving the goal of lowering blood glucose. Additionally, aerobic exercise (e.g., calisthenics) can further enhance circulation, consume blood glucose, and effectively alleviate peripheral vascular necrosis in the extremities.

Patients may begin exercising for 10 minutes daily and gradually increase duration to 30 minutes or even one hour, adjusting rest intervals according to individual tolerance. Signs indicating excessive exercise include shortness of breath, chest tightness, loss of appetite, marked fatigue, or failure of heart rate to return to baseline after rest; if any of these occur, exercise intensity should be promptly reduced.