ROME: Just 30 minutes of aerobic exercise a day may help improve blood glucose levels and insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the long-term risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to an Italian study.
Researchers at the Centro per le Malattie Endocrine e Metaboliche studied 32 healthy people between the ages of 20 and 35 who were not taking any medication.
Participants underwent glucose testing before being asked to perform light jogging. Their blood glucose and insulin levels were tested again 24 hours after exercise.
The researchers found that 30 minutes of aerobic exercise produced an immediate improvement in blood glucose levels and increased insulin sensitivity.
The findings also suggested that the benefits of exercise may persist for up to 24 hours, with lower blood glucose levels and improved insulin sensitivity observed after physical activity.
Researchers said the results support earlier evidence that regular physical activity can improve glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity over the long term.
They said making exercise a regular part of daily life could help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The study’s findings were published in the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation.