Prevent diabetes by walking slowly

Even slow walking prevents Type II diabetes

26.03.2012

Physical inactivity and overweight are among the most common causes of type II diabetes. Even simple physical activities, such as regular walks, could contribute to a significant reduction in the risk of disease, said the President of the Professional Association of German internists (BDI), Dr. med. Wolfgang Wesiack.

In his testimony, the BDI chief refers to a recent study from Australia on obese adults, which examined the effects of walking (speeds of three to six kilometers per hour) on the metabolism of sugar and fat. Here was a clearly positive effect, so the statement of the expert.

Two minutes in between lowers the blood sugar levels
As part of the Australian study, the subjects were on a treadmill for two minutes at a speed between three and six kilometers per hour over a period of five hours after every 20 minutes sitting, reports the president of the BDI in Wiesbaden. The subjects of the control group had to sit for five hours in a row or were allowed to rise only for the passage to the toilet. Wesiack continues. When comparing the fat and blood glucose levels, the researchers found that both the blood sugar level and the insulin levels were significantly lower by the walk, as in the control group, said Dr. med. Wesiack continues.

Sport helps to prevent diabetes
High blood sugar could therefore be reduced relatively efficiently in otherwise healthy overweight already by slight movement such as two-minute walks. The interruption of long sitting by a few steps in between, influenced the sugar and fat metabolism extremely positive, said the BDI President. Therefore, the long term risk of developing type II diabetes could be significantly reduced. To be recommended are, according to Dr. Wesiack otherwise especially endurance sports, such as jogging, Nordic walking, cycling or swimming that stress and strengthen the cardiovascular system. Ideally, according to the expert, there should be half an hour of exercise five times a week. (Fp)

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