A study has unveiled the most effective forms of exercise for individuals with type-1 diabetes, shedding light on how different types of physical activity can help manage this condition. The research, conducted by the Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco in collaboration with Staffordshire University, focused on optimising training regimes for diabetic patients to understand how exercise can best control blood sugar levels without causing discomfort or demotivation. Dr Pooya Soltani from Staffordshire University highlighted the significance of the study, noting that patients with diabetes often struggle with motivation to exercise due to the fear of experiencing drops in blood sugar that can lead to discomfort.
To address this issue, the research team explored whether specific types of exercise could better regulate these blood sugar fluctuations. The study involved 19 individuals with type-1 diabetes who participated in two randomised trials to assess their glycemic and cardiovascular responses to different exercise modalities. Each participant engaged in a 30-minute session of moderate aerobic exercise on a treadmill, which included interval aerobic sessions consisting of alternating 1-minute intervals at 40% and 60% of estimated maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) and continuous exercise at 50% of VO2max. Measurements of heart rate, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels were taken before, immediately after, and 20 minutes post-exercise. The researchers also evaluated participants’ rates of perceived exertion and enjoyment levels.
The results showed similar cardiovascular responses and enjoyment levels across genders and exercise types. However, notable differences were observed in the blood glucose responses, particularly between male and female participants, suggesting that gender-specific exercise recommendations may be necessary. The study found that men experienced more significant reductions in blood glucose levels immediately after both types of exercise sessions and 20 minutes after continuous aerobic exercise. In contrast, women showed decreased blood sugar levels only after constant exercise. These findings underscore the importance of considering gender-specific differences when prescribing exercise routines for patients with type-1 diabetes to prevent excessive drops in glucose levels, which can lead to episodes of hypoglycemia.
Dr Jorge Luiz de Brito-Gomes from the Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco elaborated on the practical applications of these findings. “For male patients, interval exercises such as short bursts of walking may be more beneficial when beginning exercise with lower blood sugar levels. On the other hand, continuous exercises like running might be better suited for those starting with higher blood sugar levels,” he stated. This tailored approach helps mitigate the risk of sudden blood sugar drops during exercise.
This groundbreaking study not only highlights the different impacts of exercise types on blood sugar levels among diabetic patients but also stresses the importance of personalised exercise plans based on individual health profiles and gender, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of physical activity as a component of diabetes management.
More information: Pooya Soltani et al, Sex-Related Glycemic and Cardiovascular Responses After Continuous and Interval Aerobic Sessions in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes: A Randomized Crossover Study, The American Journal of Cardiology. DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2024.07.028
Journal information: The American Journal of Cardiology Provided by Staffordshire University
