A recent study has unveiled that gender-specific exercise regimens can significantly enhance blood sugar management in individuals with type 1 diabetes. Conducted by Universidade Federal do Vale do Sao Francisco and Staffordshire University, the research was published in The American Journal of Cardiology.
Study Overview and Findings
The study aimed to determine the most effective forms of aerobic exercise for managing blood sugar levels in type 1 diabetes patients. It involved 19 participants who engaged in two different types of aerobic exercises in randomized trials. The exercises consisted of 30 minutes of moderate activity on a treadmill, categorized into interval and continuous aerobic sessions.
Participants performed either interval aerobic sessions, involving alternating 1-minute intervals at 40% and 60% of their estimated maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), or continuous exercise at 50% VO2max. Key health indicators such as heart rate, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels were measured before, immediately after, and 20 minutes following the exercise sessions. Additionally, participants’ perceived exertion and enjoyment levels were assessed.
The study revealed that while cardiovascular responses and enjoyment levels were similar across genders, blood glucose levels showed notable differences. Men experienced more substantial reductions in blood glucose immediately after and 20 minutes post-exercise during continuous aerobic exercise and immediately after interval exercise. Conversely, women only showed decreased blood glucose levels following continuous exercise.
Implications for Exercise Recommendations
Dr. Pooya Soltani of Staffordshire University emphasized that the findings are crucial for individuals with type 1 diabetes who often hesitate to exercise due to concerns about blood sugar fluctuations. Dr. Jorge Luiz de Brito-Gomes from Universidade Federal do Vale do Sao Francisco explained the practical implications for exercise routines:
For Men: Interval exercises, such as short bursts of walking, are recommended when starting with lower blood sugar levels. Continuous exercises, like running, are more suitable for higher initial blood sugar levels to mitigate the risk of sudden drops.
For Women: Both interval and continuous aerobic exercises are effective starting points, regardless of initial blood sugar levels.
The researchers advocate for integrating gender-specific recommendations into exercise prescriptions for type 1 diabetes patients, particularly for men with irregular physical activity patterns.
Context on Type 1 Diabetes
According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), approximately 95,600 children under 14 were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in India in 2022. Type 1 diabetes is characterized by the body’s inability to produce sufficient insulin, resulting in elevated glucose levels in the blood.
The study’s insights aim to refine exercise guidelines for managing type 1 diabetes, enhancing both physical health and quality of life for individuals managing this chronic condition.
