Lifestyle intervention according to general recommendations improves glucose tolerance

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Health
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Type 2 diabetes development can be postponed or prevented through lifestyle modifications.
• Assessing the efficacy of moderate interventions aligned with general population guidelines is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a 2-year combined diet and physical activity intervention on glucose tolerance.
• To determine the effectiveness of moderate lifestyle changes in a Dutch population at increased risk for diabetes.

Main Methods:

• Randomized controlled trial with 88 participants (40 intervention, 48 control).
• Intervention group received dietary advice and physical activity promotion; control group received a leaflet.
• Primary outcome: change in 2-hour plasma glucose concentration.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed reduced body weight, waist circumference, and saturated fat intake, with improved aerobic capacity.
• Two-hour plasma glucose decreased in the intervention group (8.7 to 8.0 mM) and increased in the control group (8.6 to 9.4 mM; p < 0.01).
• Greater adherence to both diet and exercise correlated with larger reductions in 2-hour glucose levels.

Conclusions:

• A lifestyle intervention program based on general recommendations effectively improves glucose tolerance.
• Combining dietary changes and physical activity is vital for enhancing glucose tolerance and insulin resistance.
• The findings are applicable even to populations that are less obese and more physically active.