How to Use Walking to Lower a Stubborn High
We’ve all had those moments where the correction dose just... isn’t kicking in. Today we’re talking about how to “walk it down” and why light movement can help lower blood sugars faster. Today, We’re Covering: Why insulin sometimes needs a...
The episode, word for word
I'm Neil Greathouse, type 1 since '92, Risely Health coach, and I once walked around the block just to finish closing my Apple Watch ring... barefoot. Welcome to Your Best T1D Year, where we build one habit each month to make life with diabetes feel less overwhelming.
You're not failing, you're doing something incredibly difficult. Let's simplify it, one habit at a time. Also, I'm not sure you need a 45-minute TED Talk to know walking is good. So... five minutes. Let's go.
Today's question: "Can a walk actually lower a stubborn high?" Short answer: yep. And it's more powerful than most people realize.
When you're sitting at 250... maybe 275... and insulin doesn't seem to be kicking in, walking can help in two big ways:
Walking increases blood flow, which helps your insulin absorb faster.
It lets your muscles burn glucose without needing more insulin.
So yes, taking a 10, 15 minute walk, even just pacing your driveway, can make your correction dose work better and faster.
It's like hitting the "fast forward" button on your insulin's remote control.
Now obviously, if your blood sugar is high and you have ketones, skip the walk. Hydrate, take insulin, rest. But if you're high without ketones, gentle movement can actually be your secret weapon.
I've had so many moments where I felt stuck... sitting there watching the CGM graph laugh at me. Then I walk, and the line finally starts to turn.
And if anyone asks why you're power-walking in jeans around the living room, just quote Tom Haverford from Parks & Rec:
"Treat yo' self." (In this case... to some insulin sensitivity.)
So here's your habit challenge for today: Next time you're stuck high and it's safe to do so, walk it down. Track it on the free sheet from [ ](https://yourbestt1dyear.com) or the link in my Instagram or TikTok bio.
And yes, I'm still picking random people who show up this month to get a free copy of my book and some fun T1D partner giveaways. Not a contest. Just my way of saying, I see you. Keep going.
Episodes drop every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, short, helpful, and walking-approved.
Grab the free step tracker at [ ](https://yourbestt1dyear.com).
This is how we stop letting diabetes steal every moment, together, one small win at a time.
See you next time, friend. Let's keep stepping.
Week 10
26 - April 14
This is the script as read on the mic, lightly tidied for reading. Education, not medical advice. Talk to your care team before you change anything about your insulin.