How can exercise help manage diabetes?

Exercise plays a crucial role in the management of diabetes primarily by improving insulin sensitivity and regulating blood glucose levels. When individuals engage in physical activity, their muscles require more glucose to produce energy. This increased demand for glucose helps the body to use insulin more effectively, allowing for improved glucose uptake from the bloodstream. As a result, regular exercise can lead to lower blood sugar levels and a reduced risk of developing insulin resistance, which is a key factor in the progression of type 2 diabetes.

Furthermore, exercise has beneficial effects on body composition, including the reduction of visceral fat, which is closely linked to metabolic syndrome and diabetes. By enhancing insulin sensitivity, individuals may experience better glycemic control, ultimately leading to healthier blood sugar levels and a reduced reliance on medication for blood sugar management.

In contrast, attempting to manage diabetes through reducing metabolic rate or limiting exercise to specific goals, such as increasing muscle mass, does not address the holistic benefits that exercise provides in terms of metabolic function. Overall, the multifaceted advantages of exercise make it an integral component of diabetes management.