A review of several published studies on the effect of exercise on diabetes has verified that exercise is beneficial for glycemic control. The mean HbA1c was lower in groups who exercised than in those who did not: 7.65% vs 8.31%.

The authors of the report note that the reduction in HbA1c was enough to decrease the risk of complications. The analysis included 14 studies that evaluated the effects of exercise and weight loss programs lasting at least eight weeks in adults with type 2 diabetes. Most were controlled trials; those that incorporated drug therapy for weight loss were not included.

There was not, however, a significant difference in weight between the two groups. The mean weights were 182.6 lbs among those who exercised and 181.4 lbs. in those who did not.

National Institutes of Health (NIH) recently announced that it is undertaking a major study to examine the long-term effects of weight loss and exercise in type 2 diabetes. NIH is seeking volunteers who meet these criteria: have type 2 diabetes, are overweight or obese, and are between the ages of 45 and 75. If you are interested, visit their web site www.LookAHEADstudy.org.

Related information Lifestyle - Exercise

Sources:

• Boule NG, Haddad E, Kenny GP, et al. Effects of exercise on glycemic control and body mass in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Journal of the American Medical Association, Sept. 12, 2001;286(10):1218-1227. (Abs.)
• NIDDK. NIH launches first study to examine long-term effects of weight loss and exercise in type 2 diabetes. Press release, June 25, 2001.