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Boost Exercise, Slash Diabetes Risk
29 Sep
Summary
- Higher moderate-to-vigorous activity significantly lowers type 2 diabetes risk.
- Younger adults under 63 see greatest risk reduction from exercise.
- Regular activity helps manage prediabetes and improve insulin sensitivity.
Recent research, published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, suggests that higher levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) can significantly lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A study involving nearly 88,000 participants found that individuals with lower MVPA had a hazard ratio of 2.07, indicating nearly double the risk of developing the condition compared to those with higher activity levels.
The greatest relative risk reduction was observed in adults aged 62.7 years or younger. For this group, lower MVPA was associated with a 2.44 times higher likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. While older adults saw a weaker relative association, the absolute difference in diabetes incidence increased with age, underscoring the lifelong importance of physical activity.
Experts highlight that regular exercise is a powerful tool for improving insulin sensitivity and managing prediabetes. Both aerobic and resistance training are beneficial, as muscle mass plays a key role in glucose disposal. The World Health Organization recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, a target that remains achievable and sensible for most adults.
