In a nutshell
This study examined the associations between physical activity, fitness and cardiometabolic risk factors in type 2 diabetics.
Some background
Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD is the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels which can lead to heart failure or stroke. Physical activity and good control of blood glucose levels are known to reduce the risk of developing CVD. However, T2D patients tend to have lower physical activity compared to the general population.
Increasing physical activity can reduce cardiometabolic risk factors (risk of having diabetes, heart attack or stroke) and increase fitness levels. Increasing energy expenditure can also reduce cardiometabolic risk factors. This reduction is apparent even in patients who do not improve fitness levels. Therefore, increasing physical activity and energy expenditure may reduce cardiometabolic risk factors.
Methods & findings
This study aimed to assess the relationship between physical activity, energy expenditure, fitness and cardiometabolic risk factors in T2D patients.
This study involved 308 recently diagnosed T2D patients. Participants performed physical activity as normal each day. Participants wore a heart rate and movement sensor continuously for more than 4 days. Fitness levels were measured using a treadmill walking test. Participants were followed for 4 years.
Increasing energy expenditure was associated with a greater reduction in waste circumference (-2.84 cm). Increasing resting time was associated with a greater increase in waste circumference (+3.20 cm).
Increasing physical activity reduced blood pressure (-6.3 mmHg). Increasing fitness reduced cardiometabolic risk factors and reduced waist circumference by -3.79 cm.
The bottom line
This study concluded that increasing physical activity and reducing resting time may reduce waist circumference. These changes may also reduce blood pressure and cardiometabolic risk factors.
The fine print
Additional lifestyle factors may have influenced the results.
What’s next?
Consult your physician regarding the health benefits of physical exercise.
Published By :
Diabetologia
Date :
Oct 31, 2015
