Boost Insulin Sensitivity with Exercise

Insulin is a hormone that helps your body use glucose for energy. When your body becomes insulin resistant, it can't use glucose as effectively, which can lead to high blood sugar levels and type 2 diabetes.

Exercise is one of the best ways to improve insulin sensitivity. When you exercise, your muscles take up glucose from your bloodstream and use it for energy. This helps to lower your blood sugar levels and improve your insulin sensitivity.

There are many different types of exercise that can improve insulin sensitivity. Some of the most effective exercises include:

* Aerobic exercise, such as running, swimming, or biking

* Resistance training, such as weightlifting or bodyweight exercises

* High-intensity interval training (HIIT), which involves alternating between short bursts of intense exercise and periods of rest

You don't need to do a lot of exercise to improve your insulin sensitivity. Even a small amount of exercise can make a difference. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Exercise is not the only way to improve insulin sensitivity. Other lifestyle changes that can help include:

* Eating a healthy diet that is low in sugar and processed foods

* Maintaining a healthy weight

* Getting enough sleep

* Managing stress

If you are concerned about your insulin sensitivity, talk to your doctor. They can test your blood sugar levels and recommend the best course of treatment for you.

In recent years, there have been several new studies that have investigated the effects of exercise on insulin sensitivity. These studies have shown that:

* Exercise can improve insulin sensitivity in both healthy people and people with type 2 diabetes.

* The type of exercise that you do doesn't matter as much as the intensity and duration of the exercise.

* Even a small amount of exercise can improve insulin sensitivity.

* Exercise can help to maintain insulin sensitivity over time.

Dr Shilpa Patel
MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine)
PgDip Clinical Endocrinology & Diabetes.
VaidhyaMedical Centre
325, 9th A Main Rd, behind Coffee thindi hotel, HRBR Layout 1st Block,
Kalyan Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560043

Reference :

[The American Diabetes Association](https://www.diabetes.org/)

[The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/)

[The Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/)

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