One way diabetics can lower their blood sugar levels

Heart-pumping, high-intensity workouts may be just what the doctor ordered for people with type 2 diabetes to manage their blood sugar. Researchers at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont., found that just 25 minutes of exercise three times a week (half the recommended 150 minutes) could lower blood sugar levels and reduce spikes after meals. The key? They gave it their all, riding stationary bikes hard enough to hit 90 percent of their maximum heart rate. Turns out training your muscles may improve your ability to flush sugar from your bloodstream after meals.

Game plan: Make every second of your workout count — especially if you can’t meet the 150-minute guideline — by pushing yourself a little harder.