Is physical exercise important in glucose control?

From the Guidelines

Physical exercise is crucial for glucose control, and individuals with diabetes should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, spread over at least 3 days, as recommended by the most recent study 1. Regular exercise helps lower blood glucose levels and improves insulin sensitivity.

• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, spread over at least 3 days.
• Include resistance training 2-3 times per week to build muscle mass, which further aids in glucose control.
• Start slowly if you're not used to exercising, and gradually increase intensity and duration.
• Always check with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program, especially if you have diabetes complications. Exercise helps control blood sugar by:

1. Increasing glucose uptake by muscles during and after activity
2. Improving insulin sensitivity, allowing your body to use insulin more effectively
3. Helping maintain a healthy weight, which supports overall glucose management Remember to monitor your blood sugar before, during, and after exercise, especially if you take insulin or diabetes medications that can cause hypoglycemia, as suggested by 1 and 1. The most recent study 1 emphasizes the importance of physical activity in diabetes management, and its findings are consistent with previous studies 1, which highlight the benefits of regular exercise in improving blood glucose control, reducing cardiovascular risk factors, and contributing to weight loss.

From the FDA Drug Label

Patients should be informed of the potential risks and advantages of glyburide tablets and of alternative modes of therapy They also should be informed about the importance of adherence to dietary instructions, of a regular exercise program, and of regular testing of urine and/or blood glucose. In initiating treatment for type 2 diabetes, diet should be emphasized as the primary form of treatment. Caloric restriction and weight loss are essential in the obese diabetic patient. Proper dietary management alone may be effective in controlling the blood glucose and symptoms of hyperglycemia The importance of regular physical activity should also be stressed, and cardiovascular risk factors should be identified and corrective measures taken where possible.

Physical exercise is important in glucose control. It should be part of a regular program, in addition to dietary instructions and regular testing of urine and/or blood glucose. 2

From the Research

Importance of Physical Exercise in Glucose Control

• Physical exercise is a crucial component in the management of glucose control, particularly in individuals with type 2 diabetes 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
• Regular physical activity has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C) levels, and increase peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) 4, 7.
• Exercise can also help regulate body weight by reducing body fat percentage and enhancing lean mass, which is beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes 4.

Types of Exercise Beneficial for Glucose Control

• Aerobic exercise is recommended for its beneficial effects on glucose control, as well as its ability to retard the progression of other comorbidities common in patients with diabetes, such as cardiovascular disease 3.
• Resistance training has also been shown to have glucose-lowering effects and can help counteract sarcopenia, which is common in older people with type 2 diabetes 3, 7.
• High-intensity interval training and breaking up sedentary behavior with short bouts of light to vigorous movement can also be effective in lowering blood glucose levels 5, 6.

Considerations for Exercise in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes

• Exercise protocols characterized by high intensity are more likely to result in episodes of hyperglycemia, while low- to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise can increase the propensity for hypoglycemia 3.
• Strategies to minimize inappropriate swings in glycemic control, such as adjusting exercise timing and intensity, are essential to optimizing glycemic control while minimizing the potential for acute derangements in plasma glucose levels 3, 6.
• Reducing sedentary time and breaking up sitting time with frequent activity breaks is also important for individuals with type 2 diabetes 6.