A study conducted by the Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco in collaboration with Staffordshire University has identified optimal exercise types for individuals with type-1 diabetes, aiming to boost motivation for physical activity as a form of diabetes management.

Study – Staffordshire University

Dr. Pooya Soltani from Staffordshire University highlighted the significance of the research: “Diabetes patients often struggle with motivation to exercise due to the risk of blood sugar drops, which can lead to discomfort and demotivation. Our study aimed to determine if different types of exercise could reduce these blood sugar fluctuations.”

The research involved 19 participants with type-1 diabetes who took part in two randomized trials to assess glycemic and cardiovascular responses following both interval and continuous exercise routines.

The Study

Each participant engaged in 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise on a treadmill. The interval sessions consisted of alternating 1-minute intervals at 40% and 60% of their estimated maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), while continuous exercise was maintained at 50% of VO2max.

Blood pressure, heart rate, and blood glucose levels were recorded before, immediately after, and 20 minutes post-exercise. Participants also rated their perceived exertion and enjoyment levels during the sessions.

The study found consistent cardiovascular responses, as well as comparable rates of perceived exertion and enjoyment among genders across both exercise types. Notably, however, blood glucose responses differed significantly between male and female participants, revealing that men experienced more substantial reductions in blood glucose levels following both forms of exercise.

Men exhibited a greater decrease in blood glucose immediately after and 20 minutes after engaging in continuous aerobic exercise, and immediately after interval sessions. Conversely, women only demonstrated reduced blood glucose levels after continuous exercise.

What the Findings Show

The findings underscore the importance of considering gender-specific differences when crafting exercise recommendations for individuals with type-1 diabetes, to help prevent episodes of hypoglycemia.

Dr. Jorge Luiz de Brito-Gomes from Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco emphasised the study's implications: “For male patients, interval exercises like short bursts of walking are ideal for those starting with low blood sugar levels. In contrast, continuous exercises, such as running, are more appropriate for individuals with higher initial blood sugar levels. These strategies can mitigate the risk of sudden blood sugar drops.”

“For female patients, both interval and continuous aerobic exercises are effective as starting points. We hope this research encourages the consideration of gender-specific recommendations in exercise prescriptions for diabetic patients, particularly for men who are less active.” (Source: sciencedailycom)