From the Guidelines
Healthcare providers should incorporate culturally sensitive exercises for Asian patients with metabolic disorders to improve treatment adherence and outcomes, as evidenced by the CURE-D study, which demonstrated statistically significant reductions in body weight and hemoglobin A1c levels in South Asian women with diabetes who participated in a culturally relevant exercise intervention 1. This approach acknowledges that cultural factors significantly influence exercise preferences, dietary habits, and health beliefs. For Asian patients, traditional practices like Bollywood dancing, as used in the CURE-D study, may be more acceptable and sustainable than Western exercise regimens. Some key points to consider when implementing culturally sensitive exercises include:
- Incorporating exercises that are culturally relevant and acceptable to the patient population, such as Bollywood dancing or other traditional practices
- Prescribing exercises that can be performed for 30-60 minutes, 3-5 times weekly, as part of a comprehensive lifestyle intervention
- Using group-based activities, which may be particularly effective for Asian patients due to their collectivist orientation
- Addressing language barriers by providing instructions in the patient's preferred language and using culturally appropriate imagery
- Considering family dynamics, as family members often participate in healthcare decisions, as seen in the SAHELI study, which involved interactive group classes focused on increased physical activity, healthful diet, and weight and stress management 1. The use of modern technology, such as web-based data collection tools and mobile phone text messaging, can also help ensure adherence to improved lifestyle modifications, as noted in the study 1. Overall, a culturally tailored approach to exercise and lifestyle interventions can lead to better glycemic control, improved insulin sensitivity, and enhanced weight management, while fostering trust between patients and healthcare providers, ultimately leading to better long-term management of metabolic disorders.
From the Research
Importance of Culturally Sensitive Exercises
- Healthcare providers should incorporate culturally sensitive exercises for Asian patients with metabolic disorders because it can improve their metabolic health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease 2, 3, 4.
- Studies have shown that exercises such as Tai Chi can be effective in improving metabolic profiles, including branch-chained amino acids (BCAAs) metabolism, and reducing cardiovascular disease risk factors 2, 4.
- Culturally adapted programs, such as Tai Chi, can promote physical activity and adequate knowledge of disease prevention in Asian populations, which is essential for reducing the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) 3.
Benefits of Exercise for Metabolic Disorders
- Regular exercise, including moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), can reduce the risk of MetS and improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus 3, 5.
- Exercise has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C), and increase peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), which can help prevent diabetes and its complications 5.
- Tai Chi, in particular, has been found to have significant effects on improving metabolic indices, such as fasting blood glucose and total cholesterol, compared to conventional clinical therapy 6.
Considerations for Healthcare Providers
- Healthcare providers should consider the cultural background and preferences of their patients when recommending exercises for metabolic disorders 3.
- Tai Chi and other culturally sensitive exercises can be a viable option for Asian patients with metabolic disorders, as they can be adapted to individual needs and preferences 2, 4, 6.
- Further research is needed to determine the best time-window for exercise interventions and to develop effective strategies for promoting physical activity in Asian populations with metabolic disorders 6.