Physical activity: the forgotten tool for type 2 diabetes management

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Health
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Sedentary behavior negatively impacts metabolic health and glycemic control.
• Individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and prediabetes require effective management strategies.
• Current recommendations emphasize structured physical activity, but daily movement may offer accessible benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the metabolic benefits of reducing sedentary time.
• To emphasize the importance of increased daily movement for glycemic management in T2D.
• To inform clinical practice regarding physical activity recommendations for diabetes.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on sedentary behavior, physical activity, and metabolic outcomes.
• Analysis of the impact of different exercise intensities and frequencies on glycemic control.
• Consideration of combined aerobic and resistance training benefits.

Main Results:

• Breaking up sitting time provides metabolic benefits, particularly for glycemic control.
• Any intensity of physical activity positively impacts insulin action and blood glucose acutely.
• Exercise can be performed every other day with matched caloric expenditure, but 150 min/week is recommended.
• Combined aerobic and resistance training offers maximal benefits for individuals with diabetes.

Conclusions:

• Reducing sedentary behavior and increasing daily movement are crucial for managing type 2 diabetes and prediabetes.
• Clinicians should integrate recommendations for increased physical activity and reduced sitting into patient care plans.
• Structured exercise, including both aerobic and resistance training, provides significant metabolic advantages.